In exhilarating conclusion to the 2024 *Salute to Veterans Bowl* the **South Alabama Jaguars** emerged victorious, claiming their first-ever bowl win with a thrilling performance that had fans on the edge of their seats
In an exhilarating conclusion to the 2024 *Salute to Veterans Bowl*, the **South Alabama Jaguars** emerged victorious, claiming their first-ever bowl win with a thrilling performance that had fans on the edge of their seats. The game, held at the **Veterans Memorial Stadium** in Montgomery, Alabama, saw South Alabama take on a tough opponent in **Northern Illinois**. Despite being underdogs, the Jaguars showcased remarkable resilience and execution, ultimately prevailing in a game that will go down as one of the most memorable in the program’s history.
The win was a culmination of a season that had already shown promise for South Alabama under head coach **Kane Wommack**. The Jaguars had been building momentum throughout the year, but their triumph in the Salute to Veterans Bowl proved they had arrived as a serious contender in the Group of Five.
### A Game of Defense and Big Plays
The game itself was a defensive battle from the start, with both teams locking down their respective offenses early. South Alabama’s defense, led by standout linebacker **Tyler Stover**, stifled Northern Illinois’s ground attack, which had been a key strength for the Huskies all season. Stover’s leadership and playmaking ability were pivotal, as he registered 10 tackles, including two for loss, and provided a sack in critical moments. His leadership in shutting down the Huskies’ rushing game gave the offense the opportunity to build momentum.
On the offensive side, South Alabama leaned heavily on quarterback **Carter Bradley**, who had been instrumental throughout the season. Bradley was efficient and composed in the pocket, completing 20 of 28 passes for 248 yards and two touchdowns. His connection with wide receiver **Nathanael Dell** was key, with Dell hauling in six receptions for 98 yards and a touchdown. Dell’s 45-yard catch in the third quarter was a defining moment, setting up a crucial touchdown drive that gave the Jaguars the lead for good.
South Alabama’s offensive line also stepped up, providing Bradley with ample protection and opening lanes for running back **La’Juan Wynn**, who ran for 85 yards and a touchdown, including a critical 30-yard scamper late in the game that helped seal the win.
### The Final Drive
The game was tied in the final minutes, and it looked like Northern Illinois might seize the victory. But the Jaguars’ resilience shone through in a dramatic last-minute drive. With less than two minutes left on the clock, Bradley orchestrated a calm and calculated drive, mixing in both short passes and runs to move down the field. The drive culminated in a 10-yard touchdown pass to tight end **Hunter Crider** with just 40 seconds remaining. The Huskies had no timeouts left, and despite a valiant effort in the final seconds, they could not respond.
### A Tribute to Veterans
The *Salute to Veterans Bowl* is not just a football game, but an event that honors the men and women who have served in the United States military. The South Alabama players wore special camouflage jerseys during the game, and the stadium was filled with tributes to veterans throughout the day. At the conclusion of the game, the Jaguars were presented with the *Salute to Veterans Bowl* trophy, but it was the message of respect and remembrance for those who served that took center stage.
### Looking Ahead
This victory marks a significant milestone for South Alabama football, as they solidify their position as an emerging power in the Sun Belt Conference. With a strong core of returning players and the momentum from this bowl victory, the Jaguars look poised to continue their rise in the coming seasons. For Coach Kane Wommack and his team, the win is a testament to their hard work, determination, and the bright future of South Alabama football.
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