Bowl Season Takeaways: Ohio, Florida A&M, Jacksonville State, Appalachian State, Fresno State, UCLA, Texas Tech
The bowl season has kicked off, and our reporters are here to break down all the action. Here are the key takeaways from each game, along with the game MVPs and top social media moments.
Myrtle Beach Bowl: Ohio 41, Georgia Southern 21
Ohio secured back-to-back 10-win seasons for the first time in program history with a dominant defensive performance against Georgia Southern. The Bobcats intercepted quarterback Davis Brin three times, and freshman running back Rickey Hunt had a breakout game with 133 total yards and five touchdowns.
Cricket Celebration Bowl: Florida A&M 30, Howard 26
Florida A&M senior quarterback Jeremy Moussa bounced back from a costly interception to lead his team to victory with a game-winning touchdown pass to wide receiver Jah’Marae Sheread. Moussa finished the game with 289 yards and three touchdowns. Despite the loss, Howard put up a strong fight, with senior running back Kelvin Dean scoring two touchdowns.
R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl: Jacksonville State 34, Louisiana 31 (OT)
Jacksonville State took advantage of their opportunity to play in a bowl game, defeating Louisiana in overtime with a field goal. Despite turning the ball over four times, the Gamecocks dominated in total yardage and showcased an impressive offensive performance. Cornerback Jalen Clark of Louisiana stood out with a fumble recovery for a touchdown and an interception for another score.
Avocados from Mexico Cure Bowl: Appalachian State 13, Miami (Ohio) 9
After a rough start to the season, Appalachian State turned things around and finished strong with a win over Miami (Ohio). Running back Anderson Castle and wide receiver Kaedin Robinson had standout performances in difficult rainy conditions. Despite the loss, Miami (Ohio) had an impressive season, finishing with 11 wins.
Isleta New Mexico Bowl: Fresno State 37, New Mexico State 10
Fresno State didn’t miss a beat without their head coach, Jeff Tedford, as they defeated New Mexico State. Quarterback Mikey Keene had a stellar game with 380 passing yards and three touchdowns, leading the Bulldogs to victory. Despite the loss, New Mexico State had a remarkable season with 10 wins.
Starco Brands LA Bowl: UCLA 35, Boise State 22
UCLA bounced back from a disappointing regular season with a win over Boise State in the LA Bowl. Quarterback Collin Schlee had a strong rushing performance, and quarterback Ethan Garbers provided a spark off the bench with three consecutive touchdown drives. Despite the loss, Boise State’s Rob Gronkowski entertained the crowd with a special rendition of the national anthem.
Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl: Texas Tech 34, California 14
Texas Tech’s defense stifled Cal’s star running back Jaydn Ott, holding him to just 45 yards and one touchdown. Quarterback Behren Morton led the Red Raiders’ offense with three touchdown passes, while the defense forced multiple turnovers. Despite the loss, Cal’s Ott announced he will return for another season.