Owen McCown’s superb performance led UTSA to a dominant 44-15 victory over Coastal Carolina in the Myrtle Beach Bowl on Monday. McCown completed 23 of 30 passes for 254 yards while also contributing a 35-yard rushing touchdown. Will Henderson III played a crucial role in the ground game, amassing 81 yards and a touchdown on just five carries.
The Roadrunners, now 7-6, secured their second consecutive bowl win with Chris Carpenter sealing the deal with a spectacular 93-yard kick return touchdown. On the Coastal Carolina side, Tad Hudson put up a valiant effort, going 17-for-26 passing with 173 yards and two fourth-quarter touchdowns. This game marked Hudson’s first collegiate start following the departure of quarterbacks Ethan Vasko and Noah Kim.
Despite a slow start, the Chanticleers found some rhythm in the fourth quarter when Hudson connected with Bryson Graves for a 50-yard score, putting them on the board. However, UTSA quickly responded with Carpenter’s electrifying kick return touchdown. Coastal Carolina managed to add more points with a touchdown pass to Senika McKie and a successful two-point conversion.
UTSA continued to dominate, with Henderson breaking off a 51-yard touchdown run on the next play from scrimmage. The game saw a total of 20 penalties, including multiple unsportsmanlike conduct calls for excessive celebrations after scoring plays.
In the postgame interview, UTSA coach Jeff Traylor commended his team’s positive energy and relentless effort, emphasizing the Roadrunners’ commitment to playing hard-nosed football. On the other side, Chanticleers coach Tim Beck praised his players for their resilience despite the challenging outcome, acknowledging UTSA’s strong performance.
Throughout the game, UTSA displayed offensive prowess, with Brandon High and McCown contributing touchdowns on the ground. McCown’s agility and decision-making were on full display as he led the Roadrunners to a commanding lead. The team’s efficient execution of plays, including a well-timed passing game, kept Coastal Carolina on its toes.
In a critical moment before halftime, UTSA’s defense prevented Coastal Carolina from scoring on a fourth-and-goal play, showcasing the team’s determination and defensive prowess. Kicker Tate Sandell also played a crucial role, adding points for UTSA with successful field goals in the third and fourth quarters.
The game was a testament to UTSA’s resilience and skill, while Coastal Carolina’s efforts in the face of adversity were commendable. The competitive spirit and sportsmanship displayed by both teams added to the intensity of the matchup.
As the final whistle blew, UTSA emerged victorious, capping off a well-deserved win in the Myrtle Beach Bowl. The players and coaches from both sides showed mutual respect and appreciation for the competition, highlighting the true essence of collegiate sportsmanship.
