Sun Sep 15 03:31:16 UTC 2024: ## Kent State Refuses Running Clock Despite 71-0 Loss to Tennessee
In a game that saw Tennessee set numerous offensive records, the Vols offered Kent State the option of a running clock or shortened second-half quarters to lessen the blow of the 71-0 defeat. However, the Golden Flashes, despite the lopsided score, declined the offer, choosing to play out the remaining time.
“That is not who we are as a team or a culture,” said Kent State coach Kenni Burns. “There are a lot of teams that lost today in lump sums. They’re not getting running clocks. A football game is a football game.”
The NCAA rulebook allows for shortening playing time by mutual agreement of both coaches and the referee. While other teams have opted to utilize this rule in similar scenarios, Kent State stood firm.
“I talked to the captains about it and they said, ‘Absolutely not.’ I said, ‘Absolutely not,'” added Burns. “It’s just not who we are at all as a football program.”
Tennessee, ranked No. 9 in the nation, exploded for a record-setting 65 points in the first half, prompting discussions about altering the game clock. Despite the offer, the Vols continued their offensive onslaught, eventually reaching a final score of 71-0.
While acknowledging that shortening the game was discussed, Tennessee coach Josh Heupel said the decision ultimately rested with the administration.
Burns believes his team demonstrated their resilience despite the crushing loss. “I think the second half you saw their response to it,” he said. “They came back, they fought from it, and that is what their coach said to us after the game that our fight in the second half was impressive.”
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