The Falcons return to Mid-American Conference play when they host another surprising team, Kent State.

Bowling Green, now 2-1, 1-0 in the MAC East, has been a pleasant surprise with its lone loss coming to Wisconsin.

Despite playing nearly 30 freshmen, the Falcons are seeking their third win in four games on Saturday, and sit atop the East Division.

"We've experienced some growing pains, but we've got some good players and hopefully they'll come around sooner or later," said BGSU coach Gregg Brandon on playing numerous youngsters.

The dual-quarterback system of Anthony Turner and Freddie Barnes is a key reason the offense ranks high in nearly every key statistical category. Opponents have trouble game-planning for the various options when Turner and Barnes are in the same backfield. The BGSU defense is another surprise. The Falcons rank fourth in total defense, allowing 298.7 yards per game.

The main concern remains the special-teams unit, with the Falcons experiencing problems on kickoff- and punt-return coverage. They improved in the kicking game last week. Sean Ellis nailed both of his field-goal attempts, the first two of his career.

The Falcons can't expect to blow out the resurgent Golden Flashes. Last week, Kent State defeated Miami (Ohio), 16-14, in Oxford.

"They're an improving football team," Brandon said of Kent State. "We've got to be ready to play these guys."

SCOUTING THE OFFENSE: The Falcons, even with two young quarterbacks, have been able to move the ball consistently in their first three games. Bowling Green leads the Mid-American Conference in scoring offense (31.7 points-per-game) and rushing offense (245.3 yards) and ranks second in total offense (424.7 yards). Quarterback Freddie Barnes is second in rushing (109.0) despite splitting time with Anthony Turner. Barnes is fourth in the country in scoring (12.0)

SCOUTING THE DEFENSE: Several big plays highlighted Bowling Green's win over Florida International last weekend. The defense is a work in progress, but the Falcons have been effective forcing teams to run the ball. The Falcons rank first in the conference in pass defense (135.7).

QUOTE TO NOTE: "I think we've got to control the football. Their defense is very disruptive. We have to keep their offense off the field." -- Bowling Green coach Gregg Brandon on the keys to defeating Kent State

THIS WEEK'S GAME: Kent State at Bowling Green, Sept. 23 -- A battle of two of the three teams with spotless Mid-American Conference East Division records. The Falcons and Golden Flashes weren't expected to contend for the conference title, but with Akron and Miami-Ohio each sporting one loss the race is wide open. The Falcons, owners of a two-game winning streak, can pull away from the pack with another victory.

PLAYERS TO WATCH: QB Freddie Barnes -- Ranks fourth nationally in scoring (12.0) and the top rushing quarterback in the country (109.0). A threat to pass or run the ball, Barnes should receive more playing time with the uncertainty over the playing status of Anthony Turner.

LB Erique Davis -- Leads the Falcons in tackles and ranks 14th nationally with 32 stops. A key performer in helping the young BGSU defense gain confidence.

K Sean Ellis -- Drilled the first two field goals of his career last week. A sore hip flexor slowed the freshman's progress.

ROSTER REPORT: The Bowling Green offense might be without starting quarterback Anthony Turner this week. The sophomore injured his left shoulder in last week's win at Florida International. Freshman Freddie Barnes, who ranks fourth in the country in scoring, is a capable replacement. The availability of Turner remains a question.