Former Tennessee football assistant coach Jerry Mack has made history by winning a conference title in his inaugural season as head coach of Kennesaw State. Under his leadership, the Owls secured a thrilling 19-15 victory over Jacksonville State in the Conference USA Championship.
Key Moments from the Championship Game
The championship victory was marked by a crucial moment where Kennesaw State converted a 4th-and-14 play with the game on the line. This decisive play was followed by a touchdown, giving the Owls the lead with only 52 seconds remaining in the match.
Jerry Mack’s Coaching Journey
Mack previously served as the running backs coach at Tennessee from 2021 to 2023. After the 2023 season, he transitioned to the Jacksonville Jaguars before being appointed as head coach at Kennesaw State. His arrival coincided with a program that struggled in its first year as a Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) team, finishing with a 2-10 record.
Prior Experience and Achievements
- Former head coach at North Carolina Central from 2014 to 2017
- Won three Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) championships
- Achieved a 31-15 overall record in his tenure there
Mack’s successful turnaround at Kennesaw State has sparked interest in his coaching capabilities, leading to speculation about his future amidst ongoing coaching searches at various schools. Memphis stands out as a potential opportunity for Mack, given his roots in the city and his collegiate playing career at both Jackson State and Arkansas State.
Kennesaw State’s Upcoming Game Against Tennessee
Kennesaw State is scheduled to face Tennessee on September 19, 2026, in Knoxville. This matchup will mark Mack’s return to play against his former team. The kickoff time and television coverage for the game have not yet been announced.
Tennessee’s 2026 Schedule Highlights
The Volunteers are preparing for a competitive 2026 season, facing nine SEC opponents:
- Home Games: Alabama, Auburn, Kentucky, LSU, Texas
- Away Games: Arkansas, South Carolina, Texas A&M, Vanderbilt
Additionally, Tennessee will compete in out-of-conference matchups against Furman on September 5 and Georgia Tech on September 12.
The excitement surrounding both the Kennesaw State Owls and Tennessee Volunteers is set to continue as the 2026 season approaches. Keep an eye on Jerry Mack, who has quickly established himself as a rising star in collegiate coaching.
