By Robbie Ross
SouthernPigskin.com

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The Bulldogs fall 28-17 in the opening round of the FCS playoffs.

nSamfordxe2x80x99s season came to an end at the hands of the team that they defeated to open the 2017 season.xc2xa0 Kennesaw State, of the Big South, playing just their third year of football, defeated the Bulldogs 28-17 behind a strong running game, timely passing game and an opportunistic defense.

nThe Owls’ triple-option offense rushed for 329 yards, quarterback Chandler Burks completed just five passes but two went for touchdowns and Akebran Ralls returned an interception 55 yards for a touchdown.xc2xa0

nSamford was led by SoCon Offensive Player of the Year Devlin Hodges as they have been all season. Hodges threw for 396 yards on 39 completions out of 66 attempts, with one touchdown and an interception. The Bulldogs were held to just 58 yards on the ground, paced by Roland Adams with 21 yards and a score. Chris Shelling led the Bulldogs with 12 receptions for 186 yards and a touchdown. Samford’s All-SoCon receiver Kelvin McKnight was held in check on the day, catching only seven passes for 49 yards.

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nWith the win, Kennesaw State advances to take on #3 seed Jacksonville State in the second round next Saturday. Samfordxe2x80x99s season ends at 8-4 and a loss in the first round of the playoffs for the second consecutive season.