The Cincinnati Bearcats blew past Kennesaw State 63-10 on Saturday, extending the school-record 28-game win streak at home. In addition to scoring early and often, the defensive effort helped the program stay unbeaten at Nippert Stadium since 2017.
Following the loss a week ago, Cincinnati bounced back with a strong showing on both sides of the ball. Luke Fickell talked about rebounding from the loss and preparing for the home opener in the postgame press conference via Cincinnati Athletics.
"“We took a tough one on the chin last week and those guys came in Sunday with a really good attitude. A lot of guys were banged up, it was a physical football game, and they went out there and had more focus and attention to detail than I think we had in a while.”"
After punting on the opening drive, Cincinnati scored touchdowns on three consecutive drives to build a 21-3 lead at halftime. Ben Bryant connected with Leonard Taylor, Tyler Scott and Josh Whyle for three passing touchdowns in the first half alone.
2️⃣8️⃣ STRAIGHT‼️
— Cincinnati Football (@GoBearcatsFB) September 10, 2022
Final from Nippert Stadium.#Bearcats pic.twitter.com/d4ApZZ9cLQ
Cincinnati Football: Bearcats extend 28-game home win streak
The defense took over in the third quarter as Jabari Taylor and Ja’Von Hicks found the end zone following two straight turnovers. Just a few minutes after Taylor took a fumble to the house, Hicks jumped Xavier Shepherd’s pass for an easy pick-six.
Cincinnati tacked on a few more touchdowns in the fourth quarter as Corey Kiner, Evan Prater and Myles Montgomery helped put the finishing touches on another home win as the team racked up 525 total yards and 24 first downs against Kennesaw State.
The Bearcats will have to wait a couple weeks before getting a chance to extend the home streak when Indiana comes to town on September 24. During the postgame press conference, Jowon Briggs broke down the blowout win on Saturday evening.
"“We had a great week of preparation. Coming in with that chip on your shoulder to get the job done. Not only that but also coming back to Nippert. It all just tied together in a dominant performance. It’s very important for us to keep that streak alive and keep the culture going.”"