Jackson State Secures First Celebration Bowl Victory, Defeats South Carolina State 28-7

In a historic moment for Jackson State football, the Tigers claimed their first-ever Celebration Bowl title with a commanding 28-7 victory over South Carolina State. This matchup, a rematch of the 2021 bowl game, saw Jackson State avenge their 31-10 loss to the Bulldogs three years ago.

A Dominant Performance

The SWAC champions controlled the game from start to finish, despite a scoreless first quarter. A key play negated by an unnecessary roughness penalty wiped out what could have been a pivotal punt return touchdown. However, the Tigers (12-2) regrouped, scoring 14 points in the second quarter and another 14 in the fourth to seal the win.

Offensive Firepower

Quarterback Jacobian Morgan delivered a stellar performance, completing 15 of 22 passes for 233 yards and two touchdowns. Both scoring throws found wide receiver Joanes Fortilien, who tallied six receptions for 43 yards and two scores. Isaiah Spencer also dazzled with three catches for 123 yards, including a 67-yard highlight-reel grab that set the tone for Jackson State’s aerial attack. The Tigers’ ground game complemented their passing success, with running back Irv Mulligan leading the charge. Mulligan carried the ball 25 times for 71 yards and two touchdowns, powering Jackson State to a rushing advantage of 153 yards to South Carolina State’s 30.

Jackson State Quarterback Jacobian Morgan & Running back Irv Mulligan in the Backfield

Defensive Standout

Jackson State’s defense rose to the occasion, holding the Bulldogs to just 211 total yards. The Tigers’ pass defense stifled South Carolina State quarterback Eric Phoenix, who completed 13 of 31 passes for 143 yards and one interception. Ryan Stubblefield added two completions for five yards but also threw an interception, resulting in a combined two turnovers for the Bulldogs. Anthony Petty and Shamar Hawkins each recorded interceptions for Jackson State, combining for 58 return yards and halting any momentum South Carolina State attempted to build. The Tigers also dominated in the trenches, limiting the Bulldogs to a paltry 1.6 yards per carry on the ground.

Special Teams and Pivotal Plays

Jackson State’s special teams contributed significantly, highlighted by Travis Terrell Jr.’s 28-yard punt return that set up a scoring drive. Kicker Gerardo Baeza added four extra points, though he missed two field goal attempts. On the punting side, Matt Noll pinned South Carolina State inside their 20-yard line twice, providing Jackson State with a consistent field position advantage. South Carolina State’s lone touchdown came from a 14-yard run by Eric Phoenix in the second quarter, but the Bulldogs struggled to capitalize on opportunities throughout the game. Nigel Johnson’s 64-yard reception was a rare bright spot for the MEAC champions.

Looking Ahead

With this win, Jackson State has cemented its place as a rising powerhouse in current landscape of HBCU football. The Tigers’ balanced attack and suffocating defense proved too much for South Carolina State, who will look to regroup and rebuild for next season. As Jackson State celebrates its first Celebration Bowl championship, the Tigers have set the stage for continued dominance in the SWAC and beyond.

Jackson State Head Coach T.C. Taylor

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