Tucson, AZ- Wyoming Cowboys leave it all up to the leg of John Hoyland to get 16-15 victory. They let the clock run down to :03 and after the 24-yarder split the upright coach Craig Bohl goes out on top!
“I’m mean the kicker never gets the MVP, it’s about all these guys on the field,” said Hoyland, “I love all these guys, they are everything to me.”
Photo by Troy Flowers / fi360 News
Just before on 3rd down quarterback Evan Svoboda (17) picked up another first down with a fumble on end of the run that bounced out of bounds in favor of the Cowboys.
The short kick was set up by Ronald Delancy III (4) Toledo who gave the Cowboys a first down after receiving 15-yard unnecessary roughness penalty to extend the last scoring drive. Delancy just had bad moment of judgement that made things a little easier.
When look back on full game Hoyland three field goals proved to a huge factor along with penalties that changed this game. The first six points for the Cowboys were 34 yarder & 52 yarder.
Photo by Troy Flowers / fi360 News
“It’s just like all these guys have Ice running through their veins.” said coach Bohl
Toledo the halftime lead 10-6 along with 15-6 lead to start the 4th quarter, but the team 328 total yards was not enough. They had a balance attack with 184 yards pass and 144 yards rushing. Jacquez Stuart (0) was 1-yard shy of the century mark rushing, with a touchdown.
Photo by Troy Flowers / fi360 News
In the end Cowboys quarterback Svoboda came in to spell Andrew Peasley who did threw for 168 yards 20/25 completions. Now Svoboda legs were big with 5 carries for 26 yards and his one 16 yard completion of the day were all part of this comeback victory.
Nine different Cowboys pulled in receptions for the teams 184 yards receiving yards. This team found a way to play a full four quarters.
Photo by Troy Flowers / fi360 News
“I want to say to all you people in Wyoming… Cowboys Up!” said coach Bohl “The are winners’ baby!”
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Despite not having star quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa, the Maryland Terrapins dominated the Auburn Tigers Saturday during the 2023 TransPerfect Music City Bowl. With backup Maryland quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. snapping the ball, Maryland rolled over Auburn 31-13 handing the Tigers their third straight losing season.
Edwards Jr., the redshirt sophomore from Springfield, Virginia, earned the TransPerfect Music City Bowl’s Most Valuable Player award after passing 126 yards, rushing for 50, and accounting for two of the game’s three touchdowns.
Photo by Christian Koelle / fi360 News
Saturday’s victory for Maryland secured their third straight bowl victory, only the second time in program history. The last time Maryland earned three straight bowl victories came in 2002, 2004, and 2006. The victory is also the third straight for Maryland head coach Mike Locksley.
“I’ll start by saying this, man,” said Maryland head coach Mike Locksley. “I’m really proud of this team and proud of the way our seniors led this program. Three straight bowl wins, back-to-back eight-win seasons. It’s not easy to do here.”
Photo by Christian Koelle / fi360 News
The seniors and some of the guys up here on this stage have played such a vital role in putting this thing together. There was a lot of blood, sweat, and tears from our players, coaches, and staff throughout the finish of this season, navigating a crazy two-week period of transfer portal, NIL, and all that stuff.”
The loss by Auburn marks the fourth straight Music City Bowl loss for the SEC. Mentioning the SEC, many players and Maryland staff following the Music City Bowl while celebrating the victory asked questions like “Is that the SEC that everyone talks so highly of?” or “Where’s Auburn?” “Has anyone seen the team that nearly beat Alabama?”.
Photo by Christian Koelle / fi360 News
Adding to that, the loss Saturday marked the fourth loss of 10 or more points in 2023 by Auburn. The 18-point loss is the third-worst loss by Auburn this season.
“I don’t need anyone to tell me when we don’t measure up,” said Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze. “That starts with me. I feel so awful for our incredible fans. It was incredible to see them, their support for us, and not perform any better in games this year like this. I promise you that — I don’t need someone to tell me I didn’t get it done.”
SAN DIEGO, CA - DECEMBER 27: USC Trojans quarterback Miller Moss (7) looks to throw the ball during the Directv Holiday Bowl football game between the Louisville Cardinals and the USC Trojans on December 27, 2023, at Petco Park in San Diego, CA. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360news)
SAN DIEGO, CA — Quarterback Miller Moss throws 372 yards and a USC bowl game record six touchdown to lead USC over #15 Louisville, 42-28, to win the 2023 DIRECTV Holiday Bowl.
USC (8-5) came into the game as a seven-point underdog with so many players in the portal and declaring for the NFL Draft including former Heisman winning quarterback, Caleb Williams.
SAN DIEGO, CA – DECEMBER 27: USC Trojans wide receiver Ja’Kobi Lane (89) catches the ball for a touch down during the Directv Holiday Bowl football game between the Louisville Cardinals and the USC Trojans on December 27, 2023, at Petco Park in San Diego, CA. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360news)
With Williams on the sideline, Moss was starting his first game of his collegiate career and put on a performance that was very reminiscent of Williams himself. Moss had played in just 11 games in three seasons, going 43 of 59 for 542 yards and three touchdowns, with no interceptions.
“When you get your opportunity, you gotta shine,” USC center Justin Dedich said after the game. “And (tonight) Miller’s the definition of that.”
“He was awesome,” coach Lincoln Riley said of Moss’ performance. When asked if Moss possibly solidified his role as the team’s starter for next season. Riley responded saying “Shoot, he may have scared off anybody that would want to come here anyway.”
SAN DIEGO, CA – DECEMBER 27: USC Trojans wide receiver Tahj Washington (16) catches the ball for a gain during the Directv Holiday Bowl football game between the Louisville Cardinals and the USC Trojans on December 27, 2023, at Petco Park in San Diego, CA. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360news)
The surprise play wasn’t the only spark for Southern California as redshirt senior wide receiver, Tahj Washington, who was playing in his final game with the Trojans, led the receiver group with seven catches for 99 yards and two touchdowns to help Moss on his historic night. The wide receivers made big plays throughout the Trojan win and it was an effort that included vets and young players.
“There was just a lot of playmakers on both sides guys had chances to make plays on both sides and really stepped up,” Riley said.
SAN DIEGO, CA – DECEMBER 27: Louisville Cardinals running back Isaac Guerendo (23) runs the ball for a gain during the Directv Holiday Bowl football game between the Louisville Cardinals and the USC Trojans on December 27, 2023, at Petco Park in San Diego, CA. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360news)
The game didn’t start off so well for USC as the offense had a quick three and out and Louisville quickly responded with a touchdown score.
It was all Moss and the Trojans after that with not much resistance from the Cardinals.
The Trojans defense did just enough to help put them over the top causing two turnovers (one in each half).
But the story of the game was the offense and the play of Moss in front of the heavily Trojans Petco Park crowd.
SAN DIEGO, CA – DECEMBER 27: Louisville Cardinals running back Isaac Guerendo (23) runs the ball for a gain during the Directv Holiday Bowl football game between the Louisville Cardinals and the USC Trojans on December 27, 2023, at Petco Park in San Diego, CA. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360news)
“We could have come into this game not caring about it,” Riley said. “Honestly, all the years and wins and stuff, this was as fun a win as I can remember as a head coach. Just with all the changes, all the back and forth, six weeks, 20-plus guys that didn’t play in this game for different reasons. … That’s a good football team that we just beat.”
SAN DIEGO, CA – DECEMBER 27: USC Trojans quarterback Miller Moss (7) looks to throw the ball during the Directv Holiday Bowl football game between the Louisville Cardinals and the USC Trojans on December 27, 2023, at Petco Park in San Diego, CA. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360news)
The Trojans played their final Pac-12 football game. They are joining the Big Ten next season, along with fellow Pac-12 defectors UCLA, Oregon and Washington.
HOUSTON, TX – No. 20 Oklahoma State built an 18-point first half lead and held on to win the 2023 TaxAct Texas Bowl, outlasting short-handed Texas A&M for a 31-23 win in at NRG stadium Wednesday night.
Fresh off a loss in the Big 12 championship game, the Cowboys (10-4) did what they did best and returned to their solid run game. Running back Ollie Gordon II, who finished top ten in Heisman Trophy voting, rushed for 118 yards and a score.
Texas Bowl – Photo by Eric Williams / fi360 News
Not only will Oklahoma State be able to build off the momentum of the bowl win, but it also recieved significant wind in its sails with Gordon announcing he’s returning for the 2024 season, spurning the transfer portal and NFL draft prospects.
On the other side, Texas A&M (7-6) will be more than happy to turn the page to 2025. The Aggies fired Jimbo Fisher after another mediocre run through Southeastern Conference play in November, and the resulting exodus of his recruits in the transfer portal left the Aggies with just 48 scholarship players in the game. This included just 1 scholarship quarterback after starter Jaylen Henderson left the game after the first play from scrimmage due to an apparent arm injury.
Texas Bowl – Photo by Eric Williams / fi360 News
True freshman Marcel Reed took over and played well off the bench, throwing for 361 yards. Junior kicker Randy Bond was 3-3 on field goals, including a bowl-record 51 yard make off the crossbar in the fourth.
On the other side, senior Alan Bowman played well in the final game of his collegiate career that spanned five years and three power five programs, starting at Texas tech and Michigan. Bowman tossed 2 touchdowns and eclipsed the 400 yard mark for the first time all season.
Mike Gundy after the Texas Bowl – Photo by Eric Williams / fi360 News
Oklahoma state coach Mike Gundy earned a 10th win in a single season for the 8th time in his career. A&M interim coach Elijah Robinson is off to Syracuse, where he’ll call defensive plays for new head coach Fran Brown.
The Mike Elko era at Texas A&M begins in earnest on Aug. 31, 2024 against Notre Dame in College Station, TX. Oklahoma State opens the same date against FCS finalist South Dakota State in Stillwater, OK.
Phoenix, AZ- The Kansas Jayhawks were able to hold off a 3rd quarter charge of the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels 49-36. Jason Bean was named the bowl MVP after throwing for 449 yards with 6 touchdowns.
The Rebels did manage to score 17 unanswered points, J.Bean had thrown two interceptions in back-to-back possessions. Rebels scoring first with three-yard touchdown run and 7-0 lead. That was their only and last lead of the game.
Photo by Troy Flowers / fi360 News
“Yeah, it’s a lot better ending than last year. I’m just thankful for the way that this team played tonight. They played their guts off. Like I said, I’m just thankful,” said J. Bean.
J.Bean did manage to throw to 8 different receivers to keep the defense honest. His top two targets were Lawrence Arnold who six catches 132 yards, 3 touchdowns, and Luke Grimm had 4 catches, 160 yards, 3 touchdowns.
Photo by Troy Flowers / fi360 News
The Jayhawks had jumped out to 28-10 halftime lead, J. Bean had already thrown for 274 yards, 3 touchdowns and interception.
An impressive 40-yard touchdown to Arnold (2) from J. Bean on 4&1 to move ahead 34-24 in the 4th quarter.
Photo by Troy Flowers / fi360 News
I’m really proud of this football team for a lot of reasons. They overcame a lot tonight and persevered. It wasn’t our prettiest performance, but we found a way to make plays and stops when we needed to.” Said Kansas coach Lance Leipold.
Photo by Troy Flowers / fi360 News
Rebels quarterback Jayden Maiava had a good game throwing for 291 yards with 3 touchdowns finding three different receivers in the endzone. They did have 106 yards rushing as a team but just not enough to make a difference.
This Kansas team in three years under its new coach Leipold is turning the program around in the right direction. This game will be a springboard for next year competing in the Big 12 minus Texas & Oklahoma.
Photo by Troy Flowers / fi360 News
“We’ve had our ups and downs, and I think it’s just a credit to our attitude and how we stay even keeled and not let the bad things really get to us and the good things either.” said J. Bean “I think the team handled the negativity very well, and I’m proud of them for doing that. I’m just glad we came out with a W.”
DALLAS, TX - DECEMBER 26: Texas State running back Jahmyl Jeter (28) scores a 29-yard rushing touchdown during the first quarter of the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl at Gerald J. Ford Stadium on December 26, 2023 in Dallas, TX. Texas State beat Rice 45-21. (Photo by Jeff Dahlia)
Gerald J Ford Stadium may have run out of beer throughout Tuesday’s game, but it didn’t run out of feistiness from the Texas State Bobcats. Texas State finished the season 7-5, their best finish since 2014, and made their first bowl game in school history (Bobcats were not selected to a bowl game in 2014). Meanwhile, despite changes on the offensive side, Rice snuck into a six-win season to reach their six-win season. Tuesday was the fifth meeting between the two schools (the first since 1987). This matchup also marked the first time in First Responder Bowl history that the two featured teams were from the state of Texas. Overall, the chippiness and physicality showcased felt like a Texas-sized showdown.
DALLAS, TX – DECEMBER 26: Texas State defensive back Kaleb Ford-Dement (2) celebrates with teammates after an interception during the fourth quarter of the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl at Gerald J. Ford Stadium on December 26, 2023 in Dallas, TX. Texas State beat Rice 45-21. (Photo by Jeff Dahlia)
“I don’t think our guys had any jitters; I think we were just too amped up, maybe,” Texas State head coach GJ Kinne said. “I told the guys [the] message. I was like go into a bowl game; that’s great. But winning a bowl game, that’s what matters.”
Texas State wasted no time out of the gate. First-Team All-American Ismail Mahdi started with a 26-yard gashing run on the first play, setting the tone for the Bobcats’ opening drive. Six plays later, Jahmyl Jeter hit up the seam from 29 yards and a touchdown, his longest season run for Texas State, putting them up 7-0. After both teams punted, Rice started their second drive with good field position due to kick catch interference. It was a mixture of run and pass for Rice, aided by another Bobcat personal foul penalty. The Owl’s drive concluded with Luke McCaffery’s 7-yard swing catch caught behind the line of scrimmage and ran into the end zone.
Texas State’s next possession was the TJ Finley show. Finley completed five passes aided by a terrific catch by Joey Hobert for 21 yards. After Ashtyn Hawkins ran to the Rice 3-yard line, it was three straight runs for Jeter, punching it in for his second touchdown for the opening quarter. It was a first quarter dominated by Texas State outgaining Rice 168-42.
DALLAS, TX – DECEMBER 26: Rice running back Dean Connors (0) takes a handoff from quarterback AJ Padgett (12) of the second quarter of the SERVPRO First Responder. Bowl at Gerald J. Ford Stadium on December 26, 2023 in Dallas, TX. Texas State beat Rice 45-21. (Photo by Jeff Dahlia)
On Rice’s first offensive play of the second, Brian Holloway ran in front of AJ Padgett’s pass to Boden Groen and took it for a 36-yard pick-six. Tuesday was Padgett’s fourth game starting for Rice after quarterback JT Daniels, season starting quarterback for the Owls, medically retired from football due to multiple concussions suffered. After the Bobcats went three-and-out, Rice went down the field in 11 plays and 77 yards. Texas State bailed out Rice with multiple third-down defensive penalties (25 yards total on the drive on two Texas State penalties). Rice scored on a Dean Connors run to cut the deficit back to 7 halfway in the second quarter for the Owls.
After another three-and-out by Texas State, Rice used the ground game attack to punch it in. On three rushes, the Owls drove down the field aided by two carries for 55 yards by Connors. It was the 28-yard rush by Connors that tied the game up. Texas State took the final minutes of the second and marched the field, but the drive stalled in the red zone as seconds wound down. The Bobcats had -1 total yards on their first two possessions of the second quarter but totaled 51 yards on the Mason Shipley 31-yard field goal drive at halftime to put Texas State up 24-21 at the break.
DALLAS, TX – DECEMBER 26: Rice quarterback AJ Padgett (120 drops back for a pass during the quarter of the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl at Gerald J. Ford Stadium on December 26, 2023 in Dallas, TX. Texas State beat Rice 45-21.
To start the second half, Texas State pooch-kicked the ball and recovered the kick on a muffed return, beginning with a short field. Following the recovery, Texas State scored in 10 plays and 30 yards, capped off with lineman Nate Jones’ first career touchdown (listed as 6 feet and 5 inches, weighing in at 320 pounds). The touchdown extended the Bobcats’ lead to 10 at 31-21.
“I’ve been waiting forever. We practice it every week,” Nate Jones said after the game. “They told me that I had about a 50% chance of getting called. We get down to the first end zone, I say hey let’s run it, they don’t run it. Then they call it, and I just go nuts.”
“I was going crazy on the sideline,” MVP Linebacker Brian Holloway said about the Nash Jones touchdown. “I hope there’s a video of me; it was executed perfectly. I was so hyped. I saw TJ stop, and I was like, what is he doing? I see Nash catches it; it was beautiful.”
On the ensuing possession, Padgett threw another pass intended for Groen but wound up in the hands of Holloway, who took it for his second pick-six of the night, extending the lead to 38-21. Holloway became the first Texas State Bobcat in program history with two interceptions in a game, let alone two pick-sixes, and considering it was at SMU, the place Holloway transferred from to Texas State, it was almost a Cinderella story.
“I mean to [win MVP] at SMU, the school I transferred from, it’s just the ultimate full circle story,” Holloway said. “I can’t tell you how grateful I am. For my teammates and our coaches and giving me the opportunity to have this conversation, [I’m] very grateful and a loss of words.”
DALLAS, TX – DECEMBER 26: Texas State offensive lineman Nash Jones (76) scores on a trick play during the third quarter of the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl at Gerald J. Ford Stadium on December 26, 2023 in Dallas, TX. Texas State beat Rice 45-21. (Photo by Jeff Dahlia)
“Just knowing the story of [Brian] playing [at SMU] and to come back here [and] he gets two interceptions [and] two [touchdowns], I was going absolutely crazy on the sidelines,” Nash Jones said when watching Brian’s performance Tuesday. After Nash talked, both he and Brian shook hands.
The intensity grew higher to begin the fourth quarter. Yellow laundry consistently hit the field, along with an ejection of corner Joshua Eaton of Texas State (who had two unsportsmanlike penalties against him). The 129 penalty yards by Texas State shattered the First Responder Bowl record for most penalty yardage in a game (Illinois had 68 in 2014 vs. Louisiana Tech, which was the previous high). The Bobcats proceeded to pick off Padgett one more time (by Shawn Holton), and then later in the fourth, Kaleb Ford-Dement intercepted a pass off of inserted quarterback Shawqi Itraish. Texas State added another touchdown by Jeter on another turnover, equaling seven Rice turnovers on the day (four in the fourth quarter). Bobcat nation stormed the field as Texas State did what they sought: a bowl win in their inaugural appearance, 45-21.
“We didn’t perform real well today,” Rice head coach Mike Bloomgren said. “Some of it is because of Texas State and the plays they made, but there’s a lot of plays that we’re very capable of making that we did not make today.” Bloomgren did provide praise to the defense, which had to overcome seven turnovers. “We always live for the sudden change situations; you just never know what could happen,” Defensive lineman De’Braylon Carroll said when having to take the field after circumstances like turnovers. “Back against the wall [or] everything’s going good, we have to respond the same way.”
As for Texas State and the fans, Tuesday is a night that cements itself into Bobcat history. With many memories, but certain ones stick out for a few players.
DALLAS, TX – DECEMBER 26: Texas State long snapper John Oehrlein (45) celebrates with teammates after an recovering a Rice fumble during the fourth quarter of the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl at Gerald J. Ford Stadium on December 26, 2023 in Dallas, TX. Texas State beat Rice 45-21. (Photo by Jeff Dahlia)
“After the game, I saw my family, and I got to hug my dad. He’s been my biggest supporter from day one. When I was a butthole in high school, he was there to chastise me and get me right, put me on the straight and narrow. He’s the one to help give me god and put me on the right path,” Nash Jones said. “To see my dad after taking the bowl win and do history here to see everything that culminated just to see him and fall into his arms, I’ll never forget that.”
“Going out there and playing one more game with my brothers and knowing it’s my last game, it’s a different feeling. Especially when you look into the eyes of those other seniors, and we’re telling each other, we’re doing this for you,” Holloway said. “You don’t know it feels until it’s you [and] you’re the one that is playing your last college football game.”
Sometimes they say you always remember your first and your last, and for Brian Holloway, he will remember his last in Bobcat Maroon.
Quick Lane Bowl Ford Field on, December 26, 2023. (photo by Andre Hollis / fi360 News)
DETROIT, MI- In a thrilling mid-afternoon showdown at Ford Field for the Quick Lane Bowl witnessed a clash between the Big Ten representative, Minnesota, and the Mid-American Conference contender, Bowling Green. This gridiron confrontation held heightened significance as the two teams aimed to break the deadlock in their limited history, having faced each other only four times. The most recent encounter in September 2021 ended with Bowling Green claiming a hard-fought victory of 14-10. With two wins apiece, this bowl game presented an opportunity for Minnesota to seek redemption and emerge victorious in the Quick Lane Bowl.
Quick Lane Bowl Ford Field on, December 26, 2023. (photo by Andre Hollis / fi360 News)
The game opened with a fierce offensive battle, showcasing brilliance from both teams. Bowling Green quickly grabbed attention with a three-play drive culminating in a 46-yard touchdown reception by Odieu Hiliare, courtesy of Connor Bazelak. Unfazed, Minnesota responded with a resilient 13-play, 75-yard drive led by Running Back Darius Taylor. Though Cole Kramer connected with Elijah Spencer for a touchdown, a missed two-point conversion heightened the suspense. In this rematch of the 2021 battle, a thrilling showdown was set right from the kickoff.
The first half started with a flurry, as both teams quickly scored early touchdowns, creating a fast-paced atmosphere. However, the game promptly shifted gears into a defensive showdown. Bowling Green’s defense made a pivotal impact with an interception, while Minnesota’s defense secured a sack. The intensity continued with a total of six punts, split evenly between the two teams. Despite the early offensive excitement, the transition to a defensive battle added suspense, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Notably, Bowling Green’s Odieu Hiliare (5 catches, 104 yards) and Minnesota’s Darius Taylor (16 carries, 76 yards) emerged as key players in the first half.
Quick Lane Bowl Ford Field on, December 26, 2023. (photo by Andre Hollis / fi360 News)
Entering the second half trailing by just a single point at 9-10 against Bowling Green, Minnesota sought the motivation and momentum needed for a comeback victory in the Quick Lane Bowl. The Minnesota defense wasted no time picking up where they left off, applying relentless pressure on the Bowling Green quarterback and securing two crucial sacks. This defensive dominance ignited the offense, propelling them to orchestrate two touchdown drives. The result was a dramatic turnaround, with Minnesota seizing a two-possession lead and injecting a surge of excitement into the Quick Lane Bowl matchup.
“It’s not over till that final whistle blows!” The fourth quarter unfolded with uncertainty, questioning whether Minnesota could maintain their lead or if Bowling Green would mount a comeback. Pasean Wimberly emerged as a game-changer, electrifying the crowd and Bowling Green fans alike. His explosive 42-yard run moved the chains, setting the stage for a thrilling drive. Wimberly capped it off with an 18-yard touchdown run, bringing the Falcons within one score in a Quick Lane Bowl that was far from decided. The final quarter promised intense moments and a nail-biting finish, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats.
Darius Taylor breaking tackles while running for 208 yards and a touchdown during Bowling Green Falcons vs Minnesota Gophers at Quick Lane Bowl Ford Field on, December 26, 2023. (photo by Andre Hollis / fi360 News)
As the final seconds ticked away and the scoreboard read all zeros, Minnesota secured their payback against Bowling Green. The game reflected Minnesota’s unwavering resilience and control, responding to every big or momentum-shifting play by Bowling Green. In a display of old-fashioned ground and pound, freshman Darius Taylor emerged as the driving force. Making a triumphant return to action since October, Taylor set a career-high with 208 rushing yards on 35 carries. His game-sealing 17-yard touchdown run showcased the grit and determination that defined the Gophers throughout. Taylor rightfully earned the Quick Lane Bowl MVP, contributing to Minnesota’s impressive streak of seven consecutive bowl game victories. It was a fitting conclusion to a story of resilience, dominance, and sweet payback for the Gophers.
LOS ANGELES, CA – Nothing has gone right for the Los Angeles Lakers ever since they won the NBA In-Season Tournament earlier this month in Las Vegas, the slump continued on Christmas day where the Boston Celtics put coal in the Lakers stocking with a sound 126-115 victory at Crypto.com Arena.
After the game, James addressed reporters and delivered an honest take on the state of the Lakers, sizing up the team compared to the rest of the NBA’s top squads.
“I don’t think we’re where we wanna be to be able to compete against the top teams,” James said, via Lakers Daily.
Anthony Davis dropped a game-high 40 points and corralled 13 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough to lift the Lakers to victory. James provided just 16 points in the loss, his lowest scoring output on a Christmas Day game in 18 tries.
From the tipoff, the Boston Celtics were scorching from beyond the arc- jumping out to a 12-0 lead before the Lakers knew what hit them. Trailing by 18 points in the first half-the Purple and Gold mounted a comeback-briefly taking a 59-58 edge.
Boston improved its record to a league-best 23-6, flashing improved balance on the heels of a splashy offseason that included trades for Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday. All five Celtics starters scored in double figures, and they put away the Lakers (16-15) with suffocating defense in the second half.
Jayson Tatum added 25 points in the win.
“They were just clicking on all cylinders,” Davis said. “The turnovers [and] the transition game hurt us tonight. Against a team like that, the best team in the league, they make you pay for it.”
LeBron James had 16 points, nine rebounds and eight assists, but the Lakers have dropped six of eight since winning the inaugural In-Season.
The Lakers will host the Charlotte Hornets on Thursday.
LAS VEGAS, NV – In a compelling showdown at Allegiant Stadium for the Las Vegas Bowl, Northwestern and Utah clashed in a defensive spectacle that showcased grit, resilience, and strategic maneuvers. The game, a testament to defensive prowess, culminated in a 14-7 victory for Northwestern, solidifying their season’s end on a triumphant note.
From the kickoff, it was apparent that this game would be defined by defensive might. Utah’s decision to defer after winning the toss handed the initial offensive opportunity to Ben Bryant and the Northwestern team. Despite their efforts, Northwestern faced relentless pressure from Utah’s defense, resulting in a quick punt and a subsequent turnover-on-downs, showcasing both teams’ defensive fortitude.
Photo by Jason Strother / fi360 News
Northwestern’s defense, a force to be reckoned with throughout the season, asserted its dominance early, managing three takeaways and sacking Utah’s Bryson Barnes an impressive five times by game end. Meanwhile, Utah’s defense matched the Wildcats’ intensity, preventing significant yardage gains and frustrating Northwestern’s offensive drives.
The first half witnessed a seesaw battle, with Northwestern gaining a slim 7-0 lead courtesy of Bryant’s precision passing to Cam Johnson for a touchdown. Despite missed opportunities to widen the gap, including a couple of errant kicks from Jack Olsen, the ‘Cats held onto their lead as Utah struggled to capitalize on offensive possessions.
Photo by Jason Strother / fi360 News
Entering the second half, Utah mounted a resilient comeback. Micah Bernard’s touchdown brought the game level at 7-7, setting the stage for a tense and critical final quarter. Bryant, who briefly exited the game due to injury, returned with a vengeance, connecting with Bryce Kirtz for a crucial touchdown, reclaiming the lead at 14-7 with just over six minutes remaining.
The closing minutes were a test of nerves for both sides. Utah pushed to bridge the gap, marching toward midfield, but Northwestern’s defense, unyielding and resolute, denied the Utes’ attempts on critical fourth-down plays. Bryant’s composed playmaking and a crucial conversion on third down cemented Northwestern’s victory, allowing them to run down the clock and clinch the Las Vegas Bowl triumphantly.
Photo by Jason Strother / fi360 News
The game’s narrative was not just about numbers on the scoreboard but a tale of defensive tenacity, strategic adaptations, and individual moments of brilliance. Northwestern’s victory epitomized their season-long resilience, a testament to their unwavering determination to finish on a high note.
As the final whistle blew, Northwestern emerged victorious, celebrating a hard-fought win against a formidable opponent. The Las Vegas Bowl served as a fitting conclusion to Northwestern’s season, a testament to their character, resilience, and unrelenting spirit, leaving a lasting impression on the college football landscape.
FORT WORTH, TX - DECEMBER 23: Air Force running back Emmanuel Michel (4) celebrates after pivotal first down in the fourth quarter of the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl at Amon G. Carter Stadium on December 23, 2023 in Fort Worth TX. Air Force beat James Madison 31-21. Photo by Jeff Dahila / fi360 News
Ft Worth, TX- Saturday was the first meeting between the schools. In addition, the nineteen wins between James Madison and Air Force tied for the second-most wins between the schools in an Armed Forces Bowl (2017 between San Diego State and Army had 19, and 2003 had Boise State and TCU combine for 22 wins). Both schools started the season 8-0. James Madison was an overtime loss away from an undefeated season, while Air Force dropped their last four to end the season.
FORT WORTH, TX – DECEMBER 23: Air Force head coach Troy Calhoun gets a celebratory soaking from defenseman Bo Richter (8) at the conclusion of the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl (Photo by Jeff Dahila / fi360 News)
“It’s been a crazy year to go 11-1 in the regular season after the second year transitioning to the FBS. The adversity we had was that the coaching staff that departed went to Indiana. You can ask for a better finish, but as a team, we finished the way we wanted to, which is to be together,” Phoenix Sproles said.
James Madison entered the afternoon, allowing 61.5 rushing yards per game in 2023 (best in NCAA). However, the Air Force prides itself on their running attack, averaging 275.8 rushing yards/per game this season. “Bring the best, and let us show you what we got,” Running back Emmanuel Michel said after the game as they ran for 203 yards on 35 carries in Saturday’s win. “We’re just competitors that way. The diesels (offensive line) really just took that challenge and took it head on and just opened lanes for me and other guys that carried the rock today.”
Quarterback Zac Larrier responded when I asked about James Madison as the best run defense in the NCAA entering Saturday. “It’s not like we took it personal and that they were number one, but we definitely did take it personal that we weren’t number one in rush yards on the year.” The Liberty Flames averaged 302.9 rushing yards a game this season.
FORT WORTH, TX – DECEMBER 23: Air Force running back Emmanuel Michel (4) breaks free for a 31-yard run during the third quarter. Photo by Jeff Dahila / fi360 News
It was the Falcons’ offense that pushed forward to start. The first run went for 54 yards by Emmanuel Michel, and the drive ended on eight carries for 86 yards with a touchdown for Air Force to put them up 7-0. It was only the fourth time in 2023 that James Madison’s defense allowed 80 or more rushing yards in a game. Senior lineman Jamree Kromah talked about the defense’s preparation against the rushing attack of Air Force and how the scout team tried to replicate it in getting ready for the Falcons.
“Later in the game, as we got adjusted to the speed and everything, trust our training, you kind of saw a lot of positive things in our defense,” Kromah said. “The only thing affected us is the explosives. Yet it has arisen but would lead them to scoring the ball is explosive plays.”
On the ensuing possession for James Madison, the Dukes went down the field in seven plays and 75 yards, ending with Phoenix Sproles’ 18-yard catch in the corner of the end zone from Jordan McCloud. McCloud threw for 62 yards on the touchdown drive, ending the first quarter even at 7.
FORT WORTH, TX – DECEMBER 23: James Madison quarterback Jordan McCloud (2) is sacked by Air Force linebacker Bo Richter (8) during the fourth quarter. Photo by Jeff Dahila / fi360 News
In the second, James Madison drove inside the Air Force 25, but McCloud threw a floating pass intercepted by Johnathan Youngblood, ending the Dukes’ threat and setting up Air Force’s second touchdown. Air Force went down the field in seven plays and 76 yards, culminating in another Michel score, but it was a 51-yard run by John Lee Eldridge to the Dukes’ 5-yard line that set up the 1-yard score. Both teams punted in their next two possessions as the Falcons’ defense got to McCloud throughout the quarter.
“At some point, naturally as a quarterback, you want to be able to take three and a reset and know it’s one-to-two in terms of your progression, and there’s a rhythm that you want to have as a quarterback,” Air Force head coach Troy Calhoun said regarding the pressure on McCloud throughout the game. “Then all of a sudden, things are a little closer to you, or somebody’s moving you off the spot. Now you’ve disintegrated that rhythm.
FORT WORTH, TX – DECEMBER 23: James Madison receiver Elijah Sarratt (13) looks to avoid Air Force defensive back Jayden Goodwin (16) during the first quarter. Photo by Jeff Dahila / fi360 News
Then the Falcons did something they only did twice in the first half: throw a pass. Zac Larrier threw a deep slant to Jared Roznos for a 42-yard touchdown to close out the half and put Air Force up 21-7 at the break. In 2023, the Falcons averaged 88.3 passing yards/game, while James Madison ranked the tenth worst passing defense in NCAA this season (267.1 yards/game).
James Madison’s defense stepped up to start the second half. After Air Force couldn’t convert a 4th and 2 at midfield, the Dukes stormed down the field in five plays, which capped with a Kaelon Black end zone catch by McCloud (Black was wide open in the corner) to cut the Air Force lead back to 7 at 21-14.
FORT WORTH, TX – DECEMBER 23: Air Force quarterback Zac Larrier (9) pitches the ball to Falcons running back John Lee Eldridge III (not shown). Photo by Jeff Dahila / fi360 News
Air Force followed the Dukes’ score by doing their specialty and running down the field in 9 plays and 75 yards. Larrier threw twice, but Michel’s 31-yard up-the-middle carry set up the “tush-push” touchdown by Zac Larrier. On the next drive, the Air Force ate up the clock, which resulted in a Matthew Dapore field goal. The drive lasted 17 plays and just under 10 minutes to extend the Air Force lead to 31-14.
In the final minutes, McCloud found Sproles in the end zone for his second touchdown, but James Madison couldn’t recover the onside kick; therefore, Air Force ran out the clock to secure the win. “I’m in complete ahh of our guys,” Calhoun said. “Our players [and] coaches, it’s amazing what they do as far as being able to handle that kind of academic load [and] all their military demands and still able to play competitive football.”
FORT WORTH, TX – DECEMBER 23: James Madison quarterback Jordan McCloud (2) throws a third quarter touchdown. Photo by Jeff Dahila / fi360 News
“I’m frustrated at the loss,” James Madison interim head coach Damian Wroblewski said. “I’m proud of the team, aggravated at our execution at times and consistency of execution. But I’m also thankful and joyful that I got to spend three weeks leading these guys.”
Saturday was Air Force’s fifth straight bowl win, and their last three came in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. “Especially being here, and I know we recruit out of Texas a lot. [But] being able to show out and show some guys how we play the game and show them what brand of football we play and allow them to make a decision out of high school [and] show them what we got, it’s good. It’s good to let them see us play, and then the new generation will come in, and a lot will be from Texas.” Linebacker Bo Richter talked about the Air Force upperclassmen’s success in bowl games in the DFW area.
