LAS CRUCES, N.M. (Interstat) — Kennesaw State built a large early lead and then held off a furious fourth-quarter rally by New Mexico State to secure a 24-21 win on Saturday at Aggie Memorial Stadium.

The Owls scored 17 points in the first quarter and added another touchdown in the second for a 24-7 halftime lead. Quarterback Amari Odom threw for 219 yards and three touchdowns, with two going to Gabriel Benyard.

The Aggies mounted a comeback in the final period, scoring two touchdowns on passes from Logan Fife to Donovan Faupel to close the gap. New Mexico State had a chance to tie the game in the final minute, but a 50-yard field goal attempt missed wide right.

Kennesaw State improved to 7-2 overall, while New Mexico State fell to 3-6.