JACKSONVILLE, Ala. (Interstat) — Kennesaw State and Jacksonville State conclude a three-game Conference USA series Sunday afternoon at Rudy Abbott Field, with first pitch set for a time to be determined under cloudy skies and a game-time temperature of 73 degrees.

Jacksonville State (39-11, 18-5 CUSA) leads the series 1-1 after splitting the first two games. The Gamecocks won 5-4 on Saturday behind a strong start from right-hander Beau Bryans, who allowed one earned run over seven innings with five strikeouts. Kennesaw State (24-23, 10-13) evened the series with a 5-2 victory on Friday.

The game carries significant postseason implications for both sides. Jacksonville State, atop the CUSA standings, seeks to maintain its conference lead, while Kennesaw State looks to secure a series win against a powerhouse opponent.

Bryans is expected to start for Jacksonville State. The right-hander has been dominant recently, allowing one earned run over 20.1 innings across his last three appearances, all wins. He struck out 10 in 6.1 scoreless innings against Florida International on April 18.

Kennesaw State will counter with right-hander Harry Cain. Cain has been inconsistent, taking the loss Saturday despite allowing no hits and four earned runs over five innings in relief, struck out six. He earned wins against Western Kentucky on April 26 and Louisiana Tech on April 19, striking out 11 combined in that stretch.

Cain’s recent workload is notable. He pitched five innings Saturday and could see limited innings Sunday, as he has thrown 17.2 innings over his last three appearances.

The Gamecocks’ offense has been potent. Designated hitter Brady Thomas went 2-for-3 with a home run and two RBIs in Saturday’s win. Jacksonville State has won 11 of its last 13 games, including a series sweep at Missouri State.

Kennesaw State has shown resilience, winning four of its last six games. The Owls’ bullpen has been effective. Relievers Peter Jezerinac and Cooper McMullen combined for three scoreless innings Saturday, allowing no hits.

Per the Interstat game simulator, Jacksonville State is projected to win 7-6.

Following this series, Jacksonville State hosts Auburn on Tuesday before traveling to Dallas Baptist for a three-game set. Kennesaw State returns home to host Missouri State for a three-game series beginning Thursday.