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UTSA Dominates Myrtle Beach Bowl, Rekindles High School Rivalry While Coastal Carolina Shines Beyond the Field

CONWAY, S.C. — The 2024 Myrtle Beach Bowl showcased not just a dominant performance by the UTSA Roadrunners but also intriguing connections between key players and their football roots. On a chilly Monday, December 23, UTSA defeated Coastal Carolina 44-15 at Brooks Stadium, marking their second consecutive bowl win and solidifying their rise in college football.

Owen McCown Shines for UTSA

Owen McCown, UTSA’s standout quarterback, delivered a stellar performance, completing 23 of 30 passes for 253 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. The victory was fueled by UTSA’s balanced attack, with the team amassing 257 rushing yards to Coastal Carolina’s 98. Will Henderson III led the ground game with 81 yards on just five carries, including a touchdown, while David Amador II shined as a receiver with seven catches for 110 yards.

USTA - Owen McCown — USTA – Owen McCown Photo: CC News Network

Coastal Carolina’s Struggles

For Coastal Carolina, quarterback Tad Hudson completed 17 of 25 passes for 173 yards and two touchdowns. Despite Hudson’s efforts, the Chanticleers struggled to find offensive rhythm, particularly in the first half, when they were held scoreless. By halftime, UTSA led 21-0, extending their dominance to 27-0 by the end of the third quarter. Coastal Carolina’s 15-point fourth-quarter surge proved too little, too late.

Tad Hudson Coastal Carolina Football. — Tad Hudson Coastal Carolina Football Throwing his First Touchdown as a Chant. Photo: CC News Network

High School Rivalry Revisited

The Myrtle Beach Bowl had deeper personal narratives, particularly for McCown and Hudson, who last faced each other on September 20, 2019, in a high school football matchup. McCown’s team emerged victorious with a commanding 68-21 win. This past rivalry added an intriguing layer to their meeting on the collegiate stage. Hudson finished his high school career by throwing for 7,325 yards and 76 TDs during his four-year prep career, which were both school records

A Legacy of Football Excellence

McCown’s path to UTSA is steeped in football heritage. His father, Cade McCown, played in the NFL, including a stint with the Carolina Panthers. Cade’s time with the Panthers brought the family to Charlotte, North Carolina, where Owen played for Myers Park High School. Meanwhile, Hudson established himself as a star quarterback at Hough High School, also in North Carolina. Their shared history made the Myrtle Beach Bowl a reunion of sorts, rekindling memories of their prep careers.

Jeff Traylor’s Connection

Adding another interesting layer to the McCown family’s football legacy, UTSA head coach Jeff Traylor once coached Cade McCown at Jacksonville High School in Texas. As a 20-something assistant coach, Traylor mentored Cade, underscoring the interconnected paths that often define football careers. Seeing Owen’s success must have been a full-circle moment for Traylor, now leading UTSA to consecutive bowl victories.

USTA coach Jeff Traylor Addresses the Media after the Myrtle Beach Bowl. Photo: CC News Network

Coastal Carolina’s Excellence Beyond the Field

While Coastal Carolina fell short in the game, the university continues to excel in academics, athletics, and its vibrant campus life. Coastal Carolina, located in Conway, South Carolina, has made significant strides on the national stage, including winning a College World Series national championship in 2016. The Chanticleers’ success in baseball and consistent performances in football highlight the school’s commitment to fostering athletic excellence. Beyond sports, the university is renowned for its strong academic programs, particularly in marine science, business, and the arts, offering students a well-rounded education in a picturesque coastal setting.

Coastal Carolina University in beautiful Conway, SC. Photo: Coastal Carolina University

Looking Ahead

The Myrtle Beach Bowl, now in its fifth year, continues to provide compelling storylines and thrilling matchups. For UTSA, the victory represents another step in their upward trajectory, while Coastal Carolina looks to regroup and rebuild after a challenging season.

As the curtain closes on another chapter of college football, the Myrtle Beach Bowl reminds fans that the sport is not just about the scores but also about the legacies, connections, and stories that make it truly special.