The Sam Houston Bearkats triumphed over Georgia Southern 31-26 in the R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl on Thursday, making a significant impression in their first-ever FBS bowl game.
Redshirt junior quarterback Hunter Watson delivered a standout performance, completing 23 of 28 passes for 213 yards and three touchdowns. His 33-yard touchdown pass to Simeon Evans in the second quarter put Sam Houston ahead for good. Evans was a reliable target throughout the game, finishing with seven catches for 85 yards.
Jaylon Jimmerson played a pivotal role for the Bearkats, contributing an early 28-yard interception return for a touchdown just three minutes into the game and adding another pick later on. Jimmerson was named the New Orleans Bowl MVP, becoming the first defensive player to win the honor since 2004.
Sam Houston’s defense was dominant, forcing five turnovers to tie a New Orleans Bowl record. Jimmerson had two interceptions, while Kavian Gaither and Briceon Hayes each had one. The defense also totaled three sacks in the first half, with contributions from Issiah Nixon, Briceon Hayes, and Richard Outland Jr.
Georgia Southern’s offense, led by quarterback JC French and running back Jalen White, accumulated 393 total yards compared to Sam Houston’s 267. However, turnovers hindered their progress. White rushed for 90 yards and a touchdown. The Eagles had an opportunity to narrow the gap in the third quarter, coming within three points, but key mistakes and penalties thwarted their comeback.
A crucial moment occurred in the fourth quarter when a facemask penalty on a sack gave Sam Houston a fresh set of downs. Watson capitalized by connecting with Evans on a 32-yard pass, setting up a one-yard rushing touchdown to extend the lead to 28-19.
Kicker Christian Pavon sealed the win with a 21-yard field goal following a forced fumble on a punt return.
Under acting head coach Brad Cornelsen, following KC Keeler’s departure, Sam Houston’s victory marked a significant milestone in their transition to Conference USA in 2023. For Georgia Southern (8-5), the loss marked their third consecutive bowl defeat under head coach Clay Helton.
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