After leaving its non-conference schedule winless, the Kent State football team started its Mid-American Conference campaign with a homecoming matchup against the Eastern Michigan Eagles.

The Flashes hung in for a while, but three third-quarter turnovers allowed the Eagles to open up a three-possession lead, paving the way for a 52-33 victory for the road team.

Kent State now falls to 0-5 (0-1), while Eastern Michigan extends its winning streak to three games with a record of 4-1 (1-0).

The Flashes’ defense allowed the Eagles to go down the field in 12 plays to take a 7-0 lead, but on its second drive, Kent State responded with a touchdown of its own.

The teams continued to trade touchdowns early into the third quarter, leaving the score at 21-21. However, as the rain started to come down, the Flashes had a hard time holding on to the ball, fumbling three times in five plays to help the Eagles create a 45-21 lead.

Junior quarterback Tommy Ulatowski completed 15 of his 28 passes for a career-high 345 yards, three touchdowns and an interception. He also ran in for a score. Ulatowski lost a fumble and was unable to come up with the loose ball after a snap went over his head. His three touchdown passes tied a career high.

The defense, which came into the game allowing over 600 yards per game, cut down its season average but still gave up 486 yards.

The offense improved on its FBS-worst 167.5 yards per game by picking up a season-high 422 yards and also reached a new season high in points. The offense turned the ball over four times against the Eagles after turning it over a total of three times in its first four games.

Both Eastern Michigan and Kent State will have a bye week before KSU’s next game Oct. 12.

The Flashes will take on the Ball State Cardinals (1-3, 0-1). The time of the game is unannounced.

Demetri Manousos is a reporter. Contact him at [email protected].