Jacksonville State triumphed over Troy with a score of 17-13 in the Salute to Veterans Bowl, held in Montgomery, Alabama. This matchup featured two Alabama teams and marked a significant moment for both schools, with Jacksonville State finishing the season at 9-5 and Troy at 8-6.
The game saw a pivotal moment late in the fourth quarter, as Troy had an opportunity to take the lead with just over three minutes remaining. However, Troy”s quarterback Tucker Kilcrease threw an interception, handing the ball back to the Gamecocks. With a chance to seal the game, Jacksonville State managed to hold onto their lead. Despite strong efforts from Troy”s defense, a last-ditch Hail Mary attempt from Kilcrease fell incomplete as time expired.
Troy”s offense struggled throughout the night, managing only 217 total yards and failing to score an offensive touchdown. Their only points came from a defensive score. This loss ended Troy”s seven-game winning streak in the series against Jacksonville State, as well as a remarkable run of 79 consecutive games won when leading at the end of the third quarter.
Andrew Paul was instrumental for Jacksonville State, scoring the decisive touchdown with 10:06 left in the game. Both teams finished as runners-up in their respective conferences, with Troy in the Sun Belt and Jacksonville State in Conference USA. This contest was the first meeting between the two programs since November 2001.
The victory represents a strong start for Charles Kelly, who completed his first season as head coach at Jacksonville State with nine wins. As bowl season continues, the excitement level is expected to rise, especially after this thrilling contest.
