Media Guide | 2025 Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl by Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl

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Independence Bowl Foundation Leadership

SARAH GIGLIO Chairwoman KEITH BURTON Vice-Chairman

BOWL CHAIR: Sarah Giglio

VICE-CHAIR: Keith Burton

1ST VICE-CHAIR: Greg Lott

2ND VICE-CHAIR: Tim Wilhite

2025 INDEPENDENCE BOWL FOUNDATION CHAIRS INDEPENDENCE BOWL FOUNDATION STAFF

GREG LOTT 1st Vice-Chairman

2025 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

TREASURER: Jayce Simpson

SECRETARY: John David Person

PAST CHAIR: Claire Rebouche

THREE-YEAR TERM: Tyler Williams

THREE-YEAR TERM: Victor Mainiero

MISSY SETTERS

Executive Director

Missy Setters joined the staff in 1996, serving as Media Relations Director before being promoted to Assistant Executive Director for Media Relations in 2003. She became the bowl’s Executive Director in 2006. Prior to the Independence Bowl, she served six years in the LSU Sports Information Department and then as Media Relations Director with the Shreveport Pirates of the CFL. She was a fouryear letter winner on the LSU women’s golf team. Missy is married to Ross Setters, and they have one daughter, Codi (27).

BROOKS ANDERSON

Director of Ticket Sales & Operations

Brooks Anderson joined the staff in June 2025. He graduated from Wichita State University with a degree in Business Administration and spent several years working in sports in Wichita, Kan., including with the ECHL’s Wichita Thunder. Brooks found a passion for building relationships and creating great experiences for fans in the world of professional hockey.

EMALEE BUTLER

Business Manager

Emalee Butler joined the Independence Bowl Staff in July 2023 as Business Manager. She graduated from Northwestern State University with a Bachelor of Arts in History and a Minor in Social Science. Prior to joining the staff, she worked as an Administrator and Teacher at a local preschool for six years. Emalee and her husband, Jeff, moved to Shreveport in 2015. They have one son, Mathis (12).

TIM WILHITE 2nd Vice-Chairman

TWO-YEAR TERM: Taylor Jamison

TWO-YEAR TERM: Lee Holmes

ONE-YEAR TERM: Doug Bland

ONE-YEAR TERM: Cindy Smith

ERIK EVENSON

Director

of Communications

Erik Evenson joined the staff as the Director of Media & Community Relations in July 2018 before being elevated to Director of Communications in March 2022. Prior to the Bowl, he served Director of Media Relations & Broadcasting for the Macon Mayhem of the Southern Professional Hockey League and in sports talk radio as the co-host of the Midday Sports Zone on Middle Georgia ESPN Radio. Erik grew up in the Atlanta, Ga. area and graduated from the University of Alabama in May 2016. Erik married his wife, Chase, in January 2024.

JENNIFER RIDER

Director of Events and Operations

Jennifer Rider is a Shreveport-native and Louisiana Tech graduate and joined the staff in September 2020. In the six years prior, she worked at East Ridge Country Club as Event Coordinator and then Pierremont Oaks Tennis Club as Assistant Manager and Event Coordinator. Jennifer loves to play tennis, watch movies and sports, and most of all, be an aunt to her seven nieces and nephews. She became Mrs. Jacob Rider in 2021.

MATT SHANKLIN

Director of Partnership Development

Matt Shanklin joined the staff in October 2023 after over 30 years on SEC campuses – including nine years at LSU and 20 years at Arkansas. In his time at LSU, Shanklin served as the General Business Manager for LSU Sports Properties and Associate AD for Marketing. He was the first Director of Marketing at Arkansas after serving as the University Licensing Coordinator for 12 years. Shanklin is a 1988 graduate of the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and earned a Masters degree from the Ohio University Sports Administration program in 1989.

Independence Bowl Foundation Leadership

2025 SELECTION COMMITTEE

*Italics indicates advisory member

2025 COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS

CHAIRPERSON ASSIGNMENT

Sarah Giglio Chairwoman

Keith Burton Vice-Chairman

Greg Lott 1st Vice-Chairman / Division Chair – Game Management

Tim Wilhite 2nd Vice-Chairman / Division Chair – Hospitality / National Strategy / Top-Sponsor Golf at Squire Creek

Dr. Michael Angelo Member Tailgate Party

Eric Barkley Past Chair Relations / VIP Services / Team Hotel Welcomes

Pam Beck Transportation, Housing, Communication

Tim Beckius Security / Traffic Flow

Roland Bernardez Member Tailgate Party

Doug Bland Officials’ Hospitality

Roger Braniff Photography

Roger Braniff, Jr. Videography

Robb Brazzel Parking

Simmie Brown Security / Traffic Flow

Jeff Butler High-Five Tunnel

David Camp North Hospitality Tents

Art Carmody IV Speaker’s Bureau

Ed Cates Division Chair – Game Management

Tammy Cates Band Host / Battle of the Bands

Joe Darwin Division Chair – Hospitality

Moss Duvall Trophy Presentation

Linda Effinger Membership Development

Derris Gardner Player Hospitality / North Hospitality Tents

Trey Giglio Barksdale Team Tours / VIP Services

Vince Giglio North Hospitality Tents

Toni Goodin Division Chair – Hospitality / Team Host

Eric Harper Team Host

Laura Harper Team Host

Jamie Hilburn Kids Day Out

Pesky Hill Bradley/Mikovich Awards

Lee Holmes Division Chair – Public Events / Membership Development

CHAIRPERSON ASSIGNMENT

Charles Hymes Independence Stadium

Kile Johnson Flyover/Color Guard/Trophy Escorts

Mekkos Jones On-Field Promotions / Script & Run-of-Show

Logan Lewis Coca-Cola Fan Fest / On-Field Promotions / Script & Run-of-Show

Melissa Mainiero Team Non-Profit Visits

Victor Mainiero Division Chair – Special Events / Team Non-Profit Visits / Welcome Party

Phyllis Mason Player Hospitality

John McCorkle Mardi Gras Preview Parade

Shirleen McCorkle Mardi Gras Preview Parade

Patrick Meehan Media Hospitality

Michael Melerine Division Chair – Special Events / Team Host

Dr. Tonya Mister Kids Welcome Party

Stan Powell Division Chair – Game Management / Signage Assistance / North Hospitality Tents

Jenna Rambin Independence Stadium

Claire Rebouche Ladies Day Out

Darrell Rebouche Social Media

Abbey Rubel Ladies Day Out

Rob Rubel Personnel Review Committee / Welcome Party

Bert Schmale Division Chair – External Affairs & Marketing

Jayce Simpson Finance / Division Chair – Public Events

Richard Sipes Ushers

Hayden Slack FCA Breakfast

Cindy Smith Pre-Game Huddle

Carla Stewart Club Level

Phil Stewart Club Level

Ashley Whittington Parking

Tyler Williams Team Host

Scott Wysong Division Chair – External Affairs & Marketing

Greg Lott Michael Melerine Claire Rebouche Darrell Rebouche

Rob Rubel Bert Schmale Jayce Simpson Cindy Smith

Eric Barkley Doug Bland Keith Burton Art Carmody IV

Sarah Giglio Trey Giglio Pesky Hill Taylor Jamison

Tim Wilhite Tyler Williams Ken Antee Pam Beck

Toni Goodin Mike McCarthy Bryan Roppolo

Away Team Information

Information about the away team of the 2025 Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl will be available after Selection Sunday on December 7, 2025.

Home Team Information

Information about the home team of the 2025 Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl will be available after Selection Sunday on December 7, 2025.

Media Information & Services

RADIANCE TECHNOLOGIES INDEPENDENCE BOWL MEDIA CONTACTS

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS:

Erik Evenson

Cell: (404) 368-7481 | Office: (318) 221-0712 ext. 24

Email: erik@independencebowl.org

MEDIA HOSPITALITY:

Patrick Meehan

Cell: (318) 990-1922

MEDIA HEADQUARTERS & HOTEL

777 Margaritaville Way, Bossier City, LA 71111 (855) 346-2489

MEDIA HEADQUARTERS: Margaritaville Resort Casino will serve as this year’s Media Headquarters. The Media Hospitality Suite will be in the VIP Lounge on the 2nd Floor (above Paradise Theater). All media covering the Bowl have access to that suite from Saturday, December 27 at noon through post-game. Media can pick up their credentials and media gifts here beginning on Saturday, December 27 at noon.

Room rates for the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl media are $79.99 plus applicable tax and fees. To receive the group discount, reservations must be made prior to Saturday, December 20 at 5 p.m. CST. Reservations can be made by clicking on the button below:

MEDIA HOTEL BLOCK

PRE-GAME PRESS CONFERENCE: A Pre-Game Press Conference will be hosted on Monday, December 29 at 10 a.m. at Margaritaville Resort Casino in the Paradise Theater. A mult-box for electronic media will be available at the press conference.

MEDIA HOSPITALITY & CREDENTIAL PICKUP

MEDIA HOSPITALITY: The Radiance Technologies Independence bowl will operate a Media Hospitality Suite in the VIP Lounge on the 2nd Floor of Margaritaville Resort Casino. All media covering the Bowl have access to that suite from Saturday, December 27 at noon and through game day. Hours of operation will vary during bowl week and will be staffed during official Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl activities. The suite will be open after the game on Tuesday, December 30.

CREDENTIAL PICKUP AT MARGARITAVILLE: Credentials will be available for pick-up in the Media Hospitality Suite. Media may claim credentials beginning Saturday, December 27 at noon. Bowl representatives will be on hand during operating hours. Individuals may claim all passes issued to his/her media organization. Lost or misplaced credentials will not be replaced. All media credentials remain the property of the Independence Bowl Foundation and must be surrendered upon request.

Credentials will be transferred from the hotel to the stadium at 8:30 a.m. on game day and media who have not picked up their credential prior to that will need to pick up their credentials at the Media Gate at the stadium beginning at 9 a.m.

All media parking will be mobile. Credentialed media must have a mobile parking pass on game day, and they will need to scan the mobile parking pass with the parking attendant on game day. Mobile parking passes for credentialed media will be emailed to the email provided on the Ticket Manager credential application. If you were approved for parking and do not receive a mobile parking pass via email by Friday, December 26, please contact Erik Evenson (erik@independencebowl.org).

MOBILE PARKING PASSES FOR CREDENTIALED MEDIA: All media parking will be mobile. Credentialed media must have a mobile parking pass on game day, and they will need to scan the mobile parking pass with the parking attendant on game day. Mobile parking passes for credentialed media will be emailed to the email provided on the Ticket Manager credential application. If you were approved for parking and do not receive a mobile parking pass via email by Friday, December 26, please contact Erik Evenson (erik@independencebowl.org).

CREDENTIAL POLICIES & GUIDELINES

All requests for working media credentials should be made through TicketManager at RadianceTechnologiesIndependenceBowl.com/credentials Emailed or faxed requests will not be accepted.

DEADLINE FOR REQUESTING CREDENTIALS: Friday, December 19 at 11:59 p.m. CST

Please be advised that submitting a request does not necessarily guarantee approval. The Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl reserves the right to revoke any credential and it must be surrendered upon request.

Credential requests will be considered only for authorized fulltime, salaried representatives. All freelance personnel requests for credentials must come from the agency hiring that individual. Having been credentialed for other bowl games does not automatically qualify an agency or individual for credentials.

Credentialing decisions for media outlets that cover the visiting school will be made following consultation with that school’s athletics communications department.

Media credentials are issued for official business only. No spouses, or children, except those performing in a working capacity, will be allowed in the Independence Stadium press box. This will be strictly enforced. NO ONE UNDER 18 ALLOWED IN THE PRESS BOX.

Credentials are NON-TRANSFERABLE. The Independence Bowl Foundation reserves the right to revoke any credential used by an individual not fully accredited, or any individual not in compliance with press box and/or field photography standards. Entities requesting credentials will be asked to supply specific names and functions. Only the persons whose names were officially supplied will be issued credentials.

Media credentials will be issued in accordance with the following priority guidelines:

NEWSPAPERS: Preference will be given to national, regional and local news outlets that cover the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl regularly as wells as outlet that regularly cover teams involved in the 2025 bowl game. Non-daily newspapers and related publications considered if space permits.

Media Information & Services

CREDENTIAL POLICIES & GUIDELINES (Cont.)

TELEVISION: Major national network affiliate television stations, e.g., ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, etc., as well as major national or regional cable broadcasters with dedicated sports programming/coverage, will be issued a press box credential(s) and/or field passes based

on needs with Independence Bowl approvals. All other television stations credential requests may receive one (1) approved press box credential and a maximum of one (1) field pass on a space available basis. All stations must produce regular nightly sports segments with dedicated sports talent.

RADIO: Radio stations covering the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl locally and regionally, and radio outlets who regularly cover the teams involved in the 2025 bowl game, will be considered for working media credentials with press box seating –one (1) per outlet – on a space available basis. Field access will not be issued to radio stations unless there are special pre-approved circumstances, or the outlet has photography needs for its official website or social media. Non-daily local or regional radio sports shows and out-of-market radio stations that have a daily sports show may be granted a credential on a space available basis. Radio stations without original sports programing may not be eligible for credentialing.

WEBSITES

PODCASTS / BLOGGERS:

Credentials will be granted to the official website(s) of each participating bowl teams as well as media and/or the official online services with rights agreements or who routinely cover schools involved in the 2025 bowl game or the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl locally/regionally. Also receiving consideration will be websites that are part of a national network and those that are affiliated with a national media entity of another form and/or those organizations whose primary purpose is gathering news and disseminating it and for which other commercial activities are ancillary.

A majority of content must be original-news stories, not satirical/ fan-related posts or re-posts of non-original news from other media outlets.

Bloggers associated with major media organizations will be considered for credentials. National media organizations and those that cover the participating schools throughout the year are the only organizations that will be considered.

PHOTO & WIRE SERVICES: Photo wire services who distribute nationally and retain rights for sale and usage of images taken at the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl will be issued a Working Press credential(s) with field access. Priority will be given to agencies requiring immediate news coverage as well as the Bowl Game participating teams.

Photo representatives must remain behind the restraining lines marked on the playing field. Only photographers will have field access. No grips, assistants messengers or guests permitted.

STUDENT MEDIA OUTLETS: Working Press credentials will be granted to student media outlets of team's involved in the 2025 Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl, as well as local or regional universities, on a space availability basis. This may include the official student newspaper, television station(s), radio station(s) and journalism school website(s)

All requests from those outlets must be submitted by a faculty advisor, and the number of credentials issued to each outlet may vary from game to game based on available space.

MISCELLANEOUS: All other credential requests, including weekly/ monthly newspapers, magazines, specialty publications, etc. will be considered on a case-by-case and space available basis.

Photographers & Photo Credential Guidelines

Credentials for field-level photographers will be issued on the same basis or priority granted to working press.

Field access is restricted to working photographers from media outlets according to NCAA rules and will be limited. The Independence Bowl Foundation (IBF) reserves the right to restrict and/or rescind field-access passes.

Photographers must remain behind the restraining lines marked on the playing field. All photographers will be required to wear a photo vest to gain field access. Photo vests can be picked up at Media Will Call – located between gates 2 and 3 adjacent to the west side elevator at the entrance marked as “Media Gate.”

Credentials will be issued only to full-time staff members of media agencies. Because of the number of requests for sideline photographer credentials, requests from freelance photographers will be honored on a space-available basis. Credentials will not be issued for non-broadcasting radio representatives, weekly newspapers, journalism students, cutline writers, equipment carriers and other “assistants."

Please note: all photography credentials issued are authorized for editorial use only and photos may not be resold without prior approval from the Independence Bowl Foundation.

The IBF has the right to use all photos taken by freelance photographers who are granted photography credentials to the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl.

All photographers must adhere to the following policies:

1. Credentials are NON-TRANSFERABLE. The IBF reserves the right to revoke any credential used by an individual not fully accredited, or not in a working capacity.

2. Photo credentials and vests must be worn in plain sight at all times. Persons with field access must secure photo vests necessary for field access at the registration table on game day.

3. Anyone wearing a photo credential and not shooting game action will be required to surrender their credential and leave the stadium immediately.

4. ABSOLUTELY NO live streaming inside the stadium or of the game will be permitted. Anyone live streaming or posting video during the game online, on social media or on any platform will be required to surrender their credential and leave the facility immediately.

5. Photographers are permitted on either sideline from the 15yard line to the end-line or on the end-line.

6. Persons with sideline access are not permitted within the TEAM BENCH AREA (inside the 20-yard lines) at any time. NO EXCEPTIONS. Persons in violation of this policy will be required to surrender their credential and leave the stadium.

7. Photographers with field access must remain behind the 12foot restraining line surrounding the playing field at all times. Photographers are not allowed on the playing field at any time.

8. No cameras are permitted at field-level other than those shooting in a working capacity for official media organizations.

9. All persons possessing photo credentials and vests must have proper professional equipment and be shooting actual game action.

10. Credentials will not be issued to assistants or “grips.”

11. Television stand-up reporters will not be permitted on the field during the game. With five minutes remaining in the game, media will be escorted to the field for post-game coverage.

12. Acceptance of credentials constitutes agreement by the bearer and his/her media organization to abide by the conditions as prescribed above by the IBF.

13. All credentials remain the property of the IBF and must be surrendered upon request.

Media Information & Services

Online Media Portal

The Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl will provide an online platform for distribution of media materials (media guide, program, etc.), press conference quotes/video and game statistics.

Press conference quotes will be available on the Media Portal as soon as possible following the pre-game and post-game press conferences. Links to the Media Portal will be emailed to credentialed media and participating schools’ sports information departments prior to arrival at Independence Stadium. The link will also be provided at each media member’s workstation in the press box.

PRE-GAME MEAL / FOOD & BEVERAGE

A free pre-game meal will be provided for members of the media in the Media Work Room on the ground level of Independence Stadium in the south endzone area between the two locker rooms. The food will be served beginning two (2) hours prior to kickoff at 11 a.m. CST.

Food from local restaurant Shaver's Catering will be available in the press box throughout the game. Bottled and canned beverages, as well as coffee, will be available for the duration of the event in the press box and media room. Pizza Hut will be available in the press box and media workroom post-game.

MEDIA GIFT

Each credentialed media member is entitled to one (1) complimentary gift when they check in at the Media Hospitality Suite at Margaritaville Resort Casino.

MEDIA LUNCHEON

The Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl will host a media luncheon on Monday, December 29 at 12:30 p.m. at Flying Heart Brewing & Pub (located at 700 Barksdale Blvd, Bossier City, LA 71111). Availability is limited to the first 50 media members.

PRESS BOX INFORMATION

The press box is located on the west side of Independence Stadium, on levels P1 and P2. One elevator, located in the middle of the west side, leads to the press level of the stadium. Media Will Call is located at the media entrance on the west side of Independence Stadium, south of the elevator between gates 2 and 3 at the entrance marked as “Media/Vendor Gate.” Only persons possessing media passes are allowed access to the press level. Broadcast booths and coaches booths are located on P1, as well as access to the photo deck. The working media seating area is located on P2.

MEDIA WORK ROOM AT INDEPENDENCE STADIUM

A Media Work Room is available on the ground floor of Independence Stadium – located in the south end zone adjacent to the team locker rooms. Wireless internet, outlets and tables will be provided in the Media Work Room. Space is very limited.

The Media Work Room will also host the Post-Game Press conference immediately following the game. Round tables used for the Pre-Game Meal will be removed by the end of the third quarter of the game to set up the room for the Post-Game Press Conference. Any equipment left on the tables will be moved to the side of the room to facilitate this changeover.

BOWL WEEK MEDIA INFORMATION & SERVICES

PRE-GAME PRESS CONFERENCE: A Pre-Game Press Conference will be hosted on Monday, December 29 at 10 a.m. in the Paradise Theater in Margaritaville Resort Casino (located at 777 Margaritaville Way, Bossier City, LA 71111). Margaritaville is the Official Media Headquarters of the 2025 Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl.

MULT-BOX: A mult-box for electronic media will be available at pre-game and post-game press conferences.

STADIUM ACCESS: Media wishing to enter Independence Stadium prior to game day for television and radio reports and photographs, etc., at times other than scheduled practices, should contact Jenna Rambin at (318) 510-7441. Anyone entering the stadium during bowl week will need a credential.

MEDIA WILL CALL ON GAME DAY: Media Will Call at Independence Stadium opens four hours prior to kickoff on game day (9 a.m. CST) and is located between gates 2 and 3 adjacent to the west side elevator at the entrance marked as “Media Gate.” Credentials will be transferred from the hotel to the stadium at 8:30 a.m. on game day and media who have not picked up their credential prior to that will need to pick up their credentials at the Media Gate at the stadium beginning at 9 a.m.

MOBILE APP: Each credentialed member of the media for the 2025 Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl will have access to the bowl’s official mobile app. Emails will be distributed prior to bowl week to download the app. The app will provide important information on bowl week activities and media availability, contact information, hotel information and game day information.

GAME DAY & POST-GAME MEDIA SERVICES

WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS: Except for regular cell phones, all wireless communication devices must be cleared in advance of bowl game day though the bowl’s communications director or its frequency coordinator. For frequency coordination needs, contact Mike McCrary, Sr. (wb5ljq@gmail.com)

Media Information & Services

GAME DAY & POST-GAME MEDIA SERVICES (CONT.)

PRE-GAME MEDIA INFORMATION: Upon arrival at the stadium, media members will receive a flip card, as well as online access to the media guide, game program, game-day notes and team notes, at their seats.

PRE-GAME MEAL / IN-GAME FOOD & BEVERAGE: A free pregame meal will be provided for members of the media in the media/interview room on the ground level of Independence Stadium in the south endzone area between the two locker rooms. The food will be served beginning two (2) hours prior to kickoff at 11 a.m. CST.

MEDIA STADIUM ACCESS: The Media Gate and Press Box level P2 will open for credentialed media four hours prior to kickoff at 9 a.m. CST on game day. The media gate is located at the southwest side of Independence Stadium. The elevator to the press box and photo deck is located on the west side of the stadium between gates 2 and 3 at the entrance marked as “Media/Vendor Gate”.

PRESS BOX: The press box is located on the west side of the stadium, on levels P1 and P2. One elevator, located in the middle of the west side, leads to the press level. Media will call is located at the media entrance on the west side of the stadium, south of the elevator between gates 2 and 3 at the entrance marked “Media/Vendor Gate.” Radio booths and coaches booths are located on P1, as well as access to the photo deck. The main writers’ room is located on P2, along with the two athletic director booths. Photographers will need to show field security their credential and photo vest in order to receive field access.

PRESS ELEVATOR: The stadium’s media elevator is located on the west side of the stadium between Gates 2-3 adjacent to the entrance marked “Media/Vendor Gate”. The working media press box is located on the mezzanine level (P2), with the broadcast and coaches booths located on P1.

INTERNET ACCESS: Free wireless internet for media is available throughout the Press Box and in the south endzone Media Workroom, and login information will be provided on game day. The Bowl can provide Ethernet cables, if needed.

PRESS BOX MONITORS: Television monitors are located in the press box and Media Workroom to assist media in its coverage of the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl through video of the game.

PLAYERS OF THE GAME: The Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl Offensive and Defensive Players of the Game Awards will be named through media-only voting. All credentialed media will be allowed to vote and ballots will be cast via StatBroadcast. Credentialed media will be asked to vote for one (1) Offensive and Defensive Player of the Game from each team, with the award going to the offensive and defensive player on the winning teams – unless Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl communications staff deems changes necessary based on an outstanding performance by a player from the losing team.

The link to StatBroadcast for live stats and Player of the Game voting will be distributed at each work station. Voting will begin at the beginning of the fourth quarter and will conclude with five minutes remaining in the game. The recipients will be announced to the media at the conclusion of the game.

STATISTICS: Quarter/halftime quickie stats and final statistics and coaches/player quotes will be distributed in the press box and Media Workroom. A link to online statistics via StatBroadcast will be provided at each press box seat. Also, a play-by-play account of down and distance will be provided verbally over the press box public address system.

POST-GAME FIELD ACCESS: Media members are allowed on the field with five minutes or less remaining in the game. The press elevator will initially leave with six minutes remaining in the game.

POST-GAME PRESS CONFERENCE: After a brief cooling-off period, head coaches and select players from each team will be available in the media/interview room – located on the ground floor in the south endzone adjacent to the locker rooms.

The head coach and players from the losing team will be escorted to the Media Workroom approximately 15 minutes after the game’s conclusion.

The head coach and players from the winning team will be escorted to the Media Workroom shortly after the head coach and players from the losing team have finished. Each head coach will make comments and then answer questions from the media. The communications teams from the participating schools will determine if the locker rooms are open or closed.

Round tables used for the Pre-Game Meal in the Media Work Room will be removed by the end of the third quarter of the game to set up the room for the Post-Game Press Conference. Any equipment left on the tables will be moved to the side of the room to facilitate this changeover.

MULT-BOX: A mult-box for electronic media will be available at press conferences.

POST-GAME QUOTES & STATISTICAL BOOKS: Quote sheets from coaches and players attending the post-game interviews will be available immediately following the post-game press conference in the main press box area and in the Media Workroom. Statistical books consisting of a scoring summary, individual stats, team stats, quarter stats, descriptive play-by-play, drive charts, defensive stats, coaches and players quotes, and game records will be available as quickly as possible in the main press box area and in the media room. Quote sheets and stat books will also be available on the Media Portal as soon as possible.

POST-GAME EMAIL: Final stat packets and post-game quotes will be emailed to everyone who requested them through the TicketManager credential application. If media members would like the statistics emailed to another address, email Erik Evenson (erik@independencebowl.org) prior to halftime of the game.

PRESS BOX OPEN/CLOSE: The press box will open four hours prior to kick off at 9 a.m. CST. The press box will stay open two hours after the conclusion of the post-game press conferences.

MEDIA PORTAL: The Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl will provide an online platform for distribution of media materials (media guide, program, etc.), press conference quotes/video and game statistics.

Press conference quotes will be available on the Media Portal as soon as possible following the pre-game and post-game press conferences. Links to Media Portal will be emailed to credentialed media and participating schools’ sports information departments prior to arrival at Independence Stadium. The link will also be provided at each media member’s workstation in the press box.

MEDIA INFORMATION & SERVICES

Network Television & ESPN TELEVISION POLICY

ESPN will televise the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl in 2025 – the 33rd consecutive Independence Bowl televised on an ESPN network. The contract between the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl and ESPN extends through the 2025-26 Bowl Season.

The Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl must abide by the following ESPN Television Policies:

1. ESPN has exclusive television rights to the 2025 Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl.

2. ESPN standup reporters and camera people with proper credentials will be permitted on the sidelines.

3. Beginning one hour before kickoff (Noon CST), there will be absolutely no live telecasts or transmissions from inside Independence Stadium. This blackout period will continue until ESPN has concluded its telecast.

4. Absolutely no live streaming of the game will be permitted Live shots can be originated any time from outside Independence Stadium.

5. Microwave transmissions are not permitted within the stadium. All satellite trucks must be positioned outside Independence Stadium.

6. ABSOLUTELY NO live streaming inside the stadium or of the game will be permitted. Anyone live streaming or posting video during the game online, on social media or on any platform will be required to surrender their credential and leave the facility immediately.

Television Stations

There will not be any live telecasts or live-streaming from inside the stadium beginning one hour prior to kickoff (Noon CST), or as described in the ESPN guidelines. There will be absolutely no live broadcasts during the game. Microwave transmissions are not permitted within the stadium on game day, and all satellite dishes must be positioned outside Independence Stadium in the TV/Satellite parking lot. All highlights of game action must be credited “Courtesy of ESPN.”

SATELLITE TRUCK PARKING: Parking spaces for satellite trucks adjacent to Independence Stadium are extremely limited. Please contact Jenna Rambin at (318) 510-7441 as soon as possible to reserve a parking location and site-specific needs.

PHOTO REGISTRATION: Photographers with sideline photo credentials must register and secure proper field identification at the beginning of the game at the registration table at the media gate located at the southwest side of Independence Stadium. Each photographer will be issued a photo vest, which MUST BE WORN, along with a sideline pass, in plain sight at all times.

SIDELINE RESTRICTION: Photographers with field access are not permitted within the Team Bench Area (inside the 20-yard lines) at any time and must remain behind the restraining line surrounding the field.

PHOTOGRAPHER POLICIES: The Independence Bowl Foundation reserves the right to restrict and/or rescind passes from people who do not follow the policies on Page 9.

Media Entrance & Game Day Will Call

MEDIA WILL CALL ON GAME DAY: Media Will Call at Independence Stadium opens four hours prior to kickoff on game day (4:15 p.m.) and is located between gates 2 and 3 adjacent to the west side elevator at the entrance marked as “Media Gate.” Credentials will be transferred from the hotel to the stadium after 3:30 p.m. on game day and media who have not picked up their credential prior to that will need to pick up their credentials at the Media Gate at the stadium beginning at 4:15 p.m.

Media Parking

Parking passes for media covering the 2025 Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl are available, but limited. A desire for a parking pass should be stated on your official credential request. Media parking will be in the Gold and Brown lots.

All media parking will be mobile. Credentialed media must have a mobile parking pass on game day, and they will need to scan the mobile parking pass with the parking attendant on game day. Mobile parking passes for credentialed media will be emailed to the email provided on the Sports Systems credential application. If you were approved for parking and do not receive a mobile parking pass via email by Friday, December 26, please contact Erik Evenson (erik@independencebowl.org).

Directions to Independence Stadium

FROM WEST OF SHREVEPORT: Take Interstate 20 East. From I-20, take Exit 14 for Jewella Ave and turn left onto Jewella Ave. Turn right onto Greenwood Rd and then Right on Mangum St.

FROM EAST OF SHREVEPORT: Take Interstate 20 West. From I-20, take Exit 14 for Jewella Ave and turn right onto Jewella Ave. Turn right onto Greenwood Rd and then right onto Mangum St.

FROM SHREVEPORT REGIONAL AIRPORT TO STADIUM: Exit the Airport by getting onto Monkhouse Dr going north. Turn right onto the ramp for I-20 East. From 1-20, take Exit 14 for Jewella Ave and turn left onto Jewella Ave. Turn right onto Greenwood Rd and then right on Mangum St.

FROM MEDIA HOTEL TO STADIUM: Exiting Margaritaville parking lot, take first exit at the roundabout. At the next roundabout, take the second exit onto W First St. Turn right onto Traffic St and turn right onto I-20 W. Take Exit 14 for Jewella Ave and turn left onto Jewella Ave. Turn right onto Greenwood Rd and then right on Mangum St.

INDEPENDENCE STADIUM

AREA MAP

Press Box & Independence Stadium

Elevator The media entrance will be on the southwest side of Independence Stadium between gates 2 and 3 at the entrance marked “Media Gate”

Media Headquarters

MEDIA HEADQUARTERS & HOTEL

777 Margaritaville Way, Bossier City, LA 71111 (855) 346-2489

MEDIA HOSPITALITY & CREDENTIAL PICKUP

MEDIA HOTEL BLOCK

2025-26 Bowl Season Schedule

BOWL GAME

Cricket Celebration Bowl Sat, Dec. 13 11

Buckle Up LA Bowl hosted by Gronk Sat, Dec. 13 7 p.m.

IS4S Salute to Veterans Bowl

StaffDNA Cure Bowl

68 Ventures Bowl

Calif.

West vs. Pac-12

Dec. 16 8

Dec. 17

Myrtle Beach Bowl Fri, Dec. 19 11 a.m.

Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl Fri, Dec. 19 2:30

Dec. 19

Famous Idaho Potato Bowl Mon, Dec. 22 1 p.m. Boise, Idaho Mountain West vs. MAC ESPN

Boca Raton Bowl Tues, Dec. 23 1 p.m. Boca Raton, Fla.

New Orleans Bowl Tues, Dec. 23 4:30 p.m.

Scooter's Coffee Frisco Bowl Tues, Dec. 23 7

Sheraton Hawai'i Bowl Wed, Dec. 24 TBD p.m.

GameAbove Sports Bowl Fri, Dec. 26 Noon

Rate Bowl Fri, Dec. 26 3:30 p.m.

SERVPRO First Responder Bowl Fri, Dec. 26 7 p.m.

Go Bowling Military Bowl

Dec. 27 10

Bad Boy Mowers Pinstripe Bowl Sat, Dec. 27 11 a.m. New York, N.Y. ACC vs. Big Ten

Wasabi Fenway Bowl Sat, Dec. 27 1:15 p.m. Boston, Mass. ACC vs. American

Pop-Tarts Bowl Sat, Dec. 27 2:30 p.m. Orlando, Fla. ACC vs. Big 12 ABC

Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl presented by Sat, Dec. 27 3:30 p.m. Tucson, Ariz. MAC vs. Mountain West The CW Gin & Juice by Dre and Snoop

Isleta New Mexico Bowl Sat, Dec. 27 4:45 p.m. Albuquerque, N.M. MWC vs. American/CUSA/MAC/SBC

TaxSlayer Gator Bowl Sat, Dec. 27 6:30 p.m. Jacksonville, Fla. ACC vs. SEC

JLab Birmingham Bowl Mon, Dec. 29 1 p.m. Birmingham, Ala. American/ACC/SEC

Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl Tues, Dec. 30 1 p.m. Shreveport, La. Big 12 vs. Conference USA

Liberty Mutual Music City Bowl Tues, Dec. 30 4:30 p.m. Nashville, Tenn. Big Ten vs. SEC

Valero Alamo Bowl Tues, Dec. 30 8 p.m. San Antonio, Texas Big 12 vs. Pac-12

ESPN

ABC

Kinder's Texas Bowl Sat, Dec. 27 8:15 p.m. Houston, Texas Big 12 vs. SEC ESPN

ESPN

ReliaQuest Bowl Wed, Dec. 31 11 a.m. Tampa, Fla. Big Ten vs. SEC

Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl Wed, Dec. 31 1 p.m. El Paso, Texas ACC vs. Pac-12

Cheez-It Citrus Bowl Wed, Dec. 31 2 p.m. Orlando, Fla. Big Ten vs. SEC

SRS Distribution Las Vegas Bowl Wed, Dec. 31 2:30 p.m. Las Vegas, Nev. Big Ten vs. Pac-12

CFP Quarterfinal at Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic Wed, Dec. 31 6:30 p.m.

ESPN

CBS

ABC

ESPN

Round Winners ESPN

CFP Quarterfinal at Capital One Orange Bowl Thurs, Jan. 1 11 a.m. Miami Gardens, Fla. CFP First Round Winners ESPN

CFP Quarterfinal at Rose Bowl Game Thurs, Jan. 1 3 p.m. Pasadena, Calif. CFP First Round Winners ESPN presented by Prudential

CFP Quarterfinal at Allstate Sugar Bowl Wed, Jan. 1 7

Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl Fri, Jan. 2 Noon Fort Worth, Texas Big 12 vs. American/MWC/SBC ESPN

AutoZone Liberty Bowl Fri, Jan. 2 3:30 p.m. Memphis, Tenn. Big 12 vs. SEC

Duke's Mayo Bowl Fri, Jan. 2 7 p.m. Charlotte, N.C. ACC vs. SEC

ESPN

Holiday Bowl Fri, Jan. 2 7 p.m. San Diego, Calif. ACC vs. Pac-12 FOX

CFP Semifinal at Vrbo Fiesta Bowl Thurs, Jan. 8 6:30 p.m. Glendale, Ariz. CFP Quarterfinal Winners ESPN

CFP Semifinal at Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl Fri, Jan. 9 6:30 p.m. Atlanta, Ga. CFP Quarterfinal Winners ESPN

CFP National Championship Mon, Jan. 20 6:30 p.m. Atlanta, Ga. CFP Semifinal Winners ESPN *Pac-12 tie-in includes current and former Pac-12 members

Broadcast Information

NATIONAL TELEVISION BROADCAST - ESPN

The 2025 Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl will be broadcast on ESPN. It is the 49th playing of the bowl, and it will be the 33rd consecutive Independence Bowl televised on an ESPN network.

The Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl has averaged 2.17 million viewers the past seven years.

The Independence Bowl Foundation and Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl announced a six-year extension with ESPN in 2020, which will guarantee that Shreveport’s bowl game will be shown by “The Worldwide Leader in Sports” through 2025.

ESPN first televised the Independence Bowl in 1992, bringing Wake Forest’s 39-35 victory over Oregon to a nationwide audience, and the game has since become a fixture on ESPN’s “Bowl Week”. The 2009 game between Texas A&M and Georgia, won by the Bulldogs 44-20, earned the distinction of being the highest-rated and most-viewed bowl game ever televised on ESPN2 at the time, as 2,333,664 households tuned in. The 1997 Independence Bowl, which matched up LSU and Notre Dame, reached a 4.5 television rating. This marked the highest rating in the Bowl’s history. The 1998, 1999 and 2000 Sanford Independence Bowls enjoyed a rare opportunity to capture the college football audience, as those games were the only bowl games on TV in the evening time slot on New Year’s Eve. In 2014, the Independence Bowl was broadcast on ABC for the first time since 1991 and earned it’s highest rating since 2006.

NATIONAL RADIO BROADCAST - Bowl Season Radio

Bowl Season Radio provides exclusive live national radio/ audio play-by-play coverage for 21 bowl games throughout December and January.

The 2025 Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl will air locally on 1130 The Tiger through Bowl Season Radio.

Bowl Season Radio will air on terrestrial radio stations throughout the country, as well as Sirius XM satellite radio on College Sports Radio (Channel 84). In addition, the games will stream live on Tune-In, Audacy and The Varsity Network apps. Bowl Season Radio utilizes some of the top broadcasters in college sports, including hometown voices for the nation's best teams.

Below are all 21 bowl games that Bowl Season Radio will broadcast:

• IS4S Salute to Veterans Bowl

• Scooter's Coffee Frisco Bowl

• StaffDNA Cure Bowl

• Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl

• Myrtle Beach Bowl

• Famous Idaho Potato Bowl

• GameAbove Sports Bowl

• 68Ventures Bowl

• Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl

• Birmingham Bowl

• Wasabi Fenway Bowl

• Isleta New Mexico Bowl

• Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl presented by Gin & Juice by Dre and Snoop

• Go Bowling Military Bowl

• Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl

• Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl

• Texas Bowl

• SERVPRO First Responder Bowl

• Duke's Mayo Bowl

• Bahamas Bowl

• East-West Shrine Bowl

2025 Conference Partners

MEDIA CONTACT:

Josh Yonis

jyonis@conferenceusa.com

Founded: 1995

Current Football Members: Delaware, FIU, Jacksonville State, Kennesaw State, Liberty, Louisiana Tech, Middle Tennessee, Missouri State, New Mexico State, Sam Houston, UTEP, WKU Office Address: 3100 Olympus Blvd, Suite 400, Dallas, TX 75019

Phone: (214) 774-1300

Website: ConferenceUSA.com

CONFERENCE USA STAFF:

Commissioner

Deputy Commissioner

MEDIA CONTACT: Matt Ensor mensor@Big12sports.com

Founded: 1994

Current Football Members: Arizona, Arizona State, Baylor, BYU, UCF, Cincinnati, Colorado, Houston, Iowa State, Kansas, Kansas State, Oklahoma State, TCU, Texas Tech, Utah, West Virginia

Office Address: 5215 N. O'Connor Blvd., Ste 1650, Irving, TX 75039

Phone: (469) 524-1000 Website: Big12Sports.com

BIG 12 STAFF:

Commissioner

Judy MacLeod

Keisha Dunlap

Executive Associate Commissioner Dr. Robert Philippi

Senior Associate Commissioner ................................................. Kelly Carney

Sr. Associate Commissioner/Chief Legal Officer Grant Newton

Associate Commissioner, Sports Services Kelly Gatwood

Associate Commissioner/Chief Revenue Officer Drew Maulsby

Associate Commissioner, Football Tre Stallings

Asst. Commissioner, Video Services & Production

Keith King

Asst. Comm., Marketing & Digital Content Sarah Rudolph

Asst. Comm., Strategic Communications (FB) Josh Yonis

Director, Business Affairs and Administration Christian Potier

Assoc. Dir., Strategic Comms. (Secondary FB) Eric Jones

Associate Dir., Digital Content | Creative Video Dane Lewis

Associate Dir., Strategic Communications Jessica Radford

Associate Director, Sports Services

Asst. Dir., Digital Content | Graphic Design

Kennedy Taylor

Addison Franklin

Strategic Communications Assistant Elizabeth Kanzeg

Sports Services Assistant Gabrielle Papushka

Multimedia/Branding/Creative Services Consultant ........... Erika Amstadt Hirschfield

Compliance & Student Services Consultant............. Melissa Marchini

Senior Meeting & Events Consultant Carmen Locke

Administrative Assistant Sundai Gibson

Brett Yormark

Executive Assistant to the Commissioner Theresa Alaimo

Junior Executive Assistant & Office Manager Mykel Read

Chief Impact Officer Jenn Hunter

Sr. Director – Academics & Student-Athlete Success Nicole Been

Chief Financial Officer Nick Bowes

Controller ................................................................................................... Anna Gomez

Assistant Dir. – Technology & Video Services Ben Anderson

Staff Accountant Chase Ketterer

Chief Administrative Officer & Special Projects Bob Burda

Human Resources Manager Derek Sandiford

Senior Director – Communications Matt Ensor

Director – Communications David Waxman

Associate Director – Communications Joshua Conrad

Assistant Director – Communications Unique Beaver

Assistant Director – Communications Adam Keyrouze

Chief Operating Officer & General Counsel Jessica Presnall

Associate Vice President – Legal Affairs Logan Phillip

Associate VP – Compliance & Governance Andy Louthain

Associate Director – Compliance & Governance Gabby Whitton

Assistant Director – Compliance & Governance Morgan Hood

Legal Assistant & Receptionist Mya Copeland

Chief Brand & Business Officer Tyrel Kirkham

Associate Vice President – Brand ............................................... Katie Ristow

Associate VP – Broadcast & Emerging Platforms Kauri Black

Senior Director – Content Keena Lynch

Associate Director – Social Media Jordan Newell

Assoc. Dir. – Brand Marketing & Game Presentation Kamrin Reed

Asst. Dir. – Graphic Design & Creative Content Carlos Gonzalez

Asst. Dir. – Creative Video & Social Content Nicolas Romero

Asst. Dir. – Marketing & Partnership Sales Christina Monjarraz

Coordinator – Brand Marketing ...................................................... Tyra Banks

Chief Revenue Officer Sean Desmond

Senior Director – Partnerships Ryan Smith

Director – Partnership Management Nicole Johnson

Asst. Dir. – Marketing & Partnership Sales Christina Monjarraz

Assistant Director – Partnership Solutions Sara Rossman

Assistant Director – Ticketing and Partnerships John Womack

Coordinator – Partnership Solutions Lena Forbes

Chief Football & Competition Officer ......................................Scott Draper

Senior Director – Competition and Events Brad Clements

Director – Football Operations & Competition Neyland Raper

Director – Competition John Payne

Director – Competition Nick Williams

Associate Director – Competition Erick Newman II

Coord. – Football, Men’s Basketball & Competition Regina Everett

Omar N. Bradley Spirit of Independence Award

OMAR N. BRADLEY SPIRIT OF INDEPENDENCE AWARD

The Sports Foundation developed the patriotic theme, which is so prominent today in the annual postseason football classic’s activities. Foundation directors decided to recognize an outstanding American citizen each year, with the “Spirit of Independence Award.” The first recipient was General Omar N. Bradley, the only living five-star general in the United States at that time.

The portrait of the man reveals a combination of honesty, strength and determination in a face also able to yield to a subtle humor when the occasion merited. Bradley and his successors symbolize the “Spirit of Freedom and Independence,” which the award was established to recognize. The following year, and until his death, General Bradley presented the “Spirit of Independence Award” to his fellow recipients. After his death, the General’s name was added to the award.

AWARD RECIPIENTS

• Gen. Omar N. Bradley, 1977

• John Wayne, 1978

• Bob Hope, 1979

Paul Harvey, 1980

• President Ronald Reagan, 1981

• Art Linkletter, 1982

• Danny Thomas, 1983

USAF Thunderbirds, Demonstration Squadron, 1984

• Vietnam Veterans, 1985

• National Aeronautics & Space Administration, 1986

• Brig. Gen. Charles E. Yeager (ret.), 1987

Eddie Robinson, 1988

• Harlem Globetrotters, 1989

• Boy Scouts of America, 1990

• Barksdale Air Force Base, 1991

Shriner’s Hospital for Children, 1992

• Sandra Day O’Conner, 1993

• YMCA (Young Men’s Christian Association), 1994

• American Red Cross, 1995

Veterans of Foreign Wars, 1996

• Fallen Law Enforcement Officers, 1997

• Firefighters of America, 1998

• World War II Veterans, 1999

• General Gabriel P. Disosway, 2000

• Heroes of New York City, 2001

• Congressional Medal of Honor Society, 2002

• Hal Sutton, 2003

• General Tommy Franks, 2004

• General Russel Honore, 2005

• General Harold Moore, 2006

Shreveport-Bossier Community Renewal, 2007

• “Team Hoyt,” 2008

• The National Football Foundation, 2009

• St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 2010

Gen. Charles C. “Hondo” Campbell, 2011

• Wounded Warrior Project®, 2012

• Doolittle Raiders, 2013

• Tuskegee Airmen, 2014

Berlin Airlift Veterans, 2015

• Veterans of the Battle of Chosin Reservoir, 2016

• Cpl. Jacob P. Schick (ret.), 2017

• Brig. Gen. Jeannie M. Leavitt, 2018

Lt. Gen. James M. Kowalski (ret.), 2019

• Lt. Gen. Joseph M. Cosumano, Jr. (ret.), 2021

• Veterans of Operation Senior Surprise, 2022

• Women Airforce Service Pilots, 2023

General Bryan P. Fenton, 2024

• General (Ret.) Charles A. Flynn, 2025

Omar N. Bradley Spirit of Independence Award

1978: John Wayne made one of his last public appearances at the 1978 Independence Bowl. Of the award, he said: “You may find many a man more worthy to honor...but you’ll never find one so grateful.”

1979: In selecting Bob Hope, the committee noted: “Mr. Hope is legendary. What he has done for America’s service men and women in the last five decades is incredible...He has given himself unselfishly to entertain and maintain the morale of our fighting men and women during our many conflicts.”

1980: News commentator Paul Harvey, after attending the 1980 game to receive his award, again expressed his appreciation and recognized the Independence Bowl over his thrice-daily nationally-broadcast radio news program.

ABOUT THE HONOREES

1987: Brigadier General Charles E. (Chuck) Yeager (USAF, Ret.) was the 1987 honoree for his accomplishments in aviation history, most notably becoming the first man to break the sound barrier.

1988: Grambling State head football coach Eddie Robinson was the 1988 award recipient. Named because of his immense contributions to college football, Robinson became the winningest coach in college football history, surpassing both Paul “Bear” Bryant and Pop Warner.

1989: In 1989, the Harlem Globetrotters were honored for the joy and excitement they bring to people of all ages as American ambassadors all over the world.

1994: The Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) was recognized during its 150th anniversary as a worldwide movement. The YMCA is the largest nonprofit community service organization in America. It works to meet the health and social service needs of 13.5 million people.

1995: For more than 75 years, the Northwest Louisiana Chapter of the American Red Cross has provided emergency aid such as food, shelter, clothing and medical assistance to victims of natural and man-made disasters, and in 1995 this organization became the 18th Omar Bradley Award recipient. The Red Cross, a humanitarian organization led by volunteers, provides relief to victims of disasters and helps people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies.

1981: President Ronald Reagan accepted his bust of General Bradley via video tape after the alleged threat of a Libyan attack required the Secret Service to limit his travel.

1982: Braving plunging temperatures and gusty winds, Art Linkletter donned warm weather gear to accept his award on the playing field during halftime in 1982.

1983: Danny Thomas, in expressing gratitude for his Bradley award, recalled his personal friendship with the General, dating back to the entertainer’s USO tour days of World War II.

1984: The Thunderbirds, as “Ambassadors in Blue” for all Americans, were singled out for being the epitome of the nation’s Air Force community and representing the best of what can be accomplished through teamwork. They received the award following their triumphant 1984 international tour, the first overseas appearance by the Thunderbirds in 13 years.

1985: All Veterans of the Vietnam War were honored for their patriotism, sacrifices and dedication to the principles of American freedom, 10 years after the war in Asia came to a conclusion.

1986: In 1986, it was the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, “for its contributions in science to the betterment of all mankind.”

1990: The Boy Scouts of America had 7,000 in attendance at the 1990 game to receive the award. Congress’ designated 1990 as the year of the Eagle Scout, and the Boy Scout program’s emphasis on good citizenship and community service, made this group of young people trying to make this a better country deserving honorees.

1991: In 1991, Barksdale Air Force Base in Bossier City was honored. This honor precluded, by about three weeks, a nighttime bombing run by Barksdale B-52s, which began the successful Persian Gulf War. Barksdale has been a thriving mainstay in the Shreveport-Bossier City area since 1933.

1992: In 1992 the Shriner’s Hospitals were honored. Shreveport serves as the home of the original Shriner’s Hospital for Crippled Children, opened in 1922. There are currently 22 Shriner’s Hospitals throughout the U.S., three of which are burn hospitals, while the other 19 are orthopedic units. Children are treated for ailments such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida and scoliosis among many others. The local Shriner’s Hospital treats as many as 7,500 children each year, coming from the U.S., Mexico and Central America. This institute is now called the Shriner’s Hospital for Children.

1993: Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Conner became the first female recipient of the prestigious Omar Bradley “Spirit of Independence Award.” Her confidence and determination to overcome gender bias and barriers has been a great inspiration for many Americans.

1996: The Veterans of Foreign Wars, with over 2 million members, was honored as the 1996 recipient of the Omar Bradley award. What a fitting tribute to those who have served their country abroad, in an effort to protect the freedoms that we all enjoy and often take for granted.

1997: Each day 700,000 sworn law enforcement officers put on their respective uniforms and put their lives on the line as they take on the responsibility of serving and protecting citizens throughout the United States. That is why the Fallen Law Enforcement Officers became the 1997 recipient. Dating back to 1794, when Marshal Robert Forsyth became the first known officer ever to die in the line of duty, men and women have taken on the task of law enforcement with the knowledge that each day could be their last. Still, they proudly wear their uniforms and do their jobs, even when many don’t get the respect they deserve as law enforcement officers.

1998: Every year in the United States about 100 American Firefighters are killed in the line of duty and another 87,000 are injured. A career that once had a mission statement of saving lives and protecting property has now taken on a much broader meaning. In 1998 the Sanford Independence Bowl honored the nation’s Firefighters for their dedication and protection.

Bob Hope (1979)

Omar N. Bradley Spirit of Independence Award

1999: Whether it was the men who stormed Normandy on D-Day or the women who flew transport missions, the Veterans of World War II were part of what has been described as the most defining event of the 20th century in American history. World War II brought out the ultimate spirit, sacrifice and commitment of the American people to the common defense of the nation and to the broader causes of peace and freedom from tyranny throughout the world.

2000: Before retiring in 1968, General Gabriel P. Disosway finished a distinguished military career by serving as commander of the U.S. Air Force Tactical Air Command, which is charged with maintaining peak combat efficiency in the tactical missions of fighter, reconnaissance and assault airlift. It further trains air and ground crews as required for the overseas commands of U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Pacific Air Forces. A native of Pomona, Calif., General Disosway graduated from Wichita Falls High School, in Wichita Falls, Texas in 1927 and then attended the University of Oklahoma. He entered the U.S. Military Academy in July 1929, graduated and was commissioned a second lieutenant of Field Artillery in June 1933. He achieved the rank of General (4-star) in 1963.

Medal of Honor Society (2002)

2001: On September 11, 2001, the lives of all Americans, and especially New Yorkers, changed forever. The destruction of the twin towers and other buildings in the World Trade Center changed not only the skyline of Manhattan, but also the entire free world. The staggering list of those missing and presumed dead at the World Trade Center exceeds 3,000, including some 350 New York City Firefighters, 40 New York City Police Officers and at least 30 members of the Port Authority. Despite the extreme horror of that day’s event, we saw the extraordinary valor of firefighters, police officers, emergency service workers, parks enforcement patrol officers, medical personnel, construction workers, ordinary citizens and many others who ran to the disaster scene to help. Many of these people ran into the collapsing towers to pull people out. The entire City of New York refused to give in to the chaos caused by a few madmen.

One of the great American generals of the second World War, Omar N. Bradley signifies the “Spirit of Independence” award through dedication, courage and service to his country.

A 1915 graduate of West Point, Bradley retired from the Army in 1953 with the rank of five-star general. Bradley was a commandant of the infantry school (Fort Benning, Ga.) and the commander of the 82nd and 28th divisions. As commander of II Corps he played a major role in the victory at Tunisia in 1943. His forces also were involved in the capture of the island of Sicily in August, 1943.

Following D-Day, Bradley commanded the 12th Army Group which played a significant role in the defeat of the Germans in Europe. His forces liberated Paris on August 25, 1944.

During his career, Bradley earned a reputation as being one of the best infantry commanders in World War II.

Bradley’s post-war duties involved running the Veteran’s Administration (1945-47), and serving as Army Chief of Staff (1948-1953). Bradley, in his military assignment, replaced General Douglas MacArthur as the supreme allied commander in Korea. He also served as chairman of the board for the Bullova Watch Company.

A classmate and friend of General Dwight Eisenhower, Bradley received his fifth general’s star in 1950. His 1915 class at West Point was named the “class the stars fell on,” as 36% of the 164 graduates in that year attained the rank of brigadier general or higher.

The larger-thanlife bronze bust of General Bradley was created by the late Frank Eliscu of Sarasota, Florida.

The nationally renowned sculptor is best known for his creation of the Heisman Trophy, annually presented by the Downtown Athletic Club of New York to the nation’s outstanding collegiate football player.

2002: The Congressional Medal Of Honor Society of the United States of America is perhaps the “most exclusive organization” in our country...it is certainly one of the most unique. Its small membership includes men of all races, social classes and economic levels. They range in stature from 5’2” to 6’5”, in age from 48 to 90, and they live in all areas of our Country. Among them are scholars and ordinary men, successful entrepreneurs and struggling laborers, ministers and misfits, very rich to very poor. No amount of money, power or influence can buy one’s rite of passage to this exclusive circle, and unlike almost any other organization, this group’s members hope that there will be no more inductees. Beyond this attitude towards recruitment, about all they have in common is a passionate love for the United States of America and the distinct honor of wearing our Nation’s highest award for military valor, The Medal of Honor.

2003: Shreveport’s own Hal Sutton was chosen as the 2003 recipient of the Omar N. Bradley “Spirit of Independence Award,” for being named the 2004 U.S. Ryder Cup team captain, as well as his stellar play and leadership throughout his career in international competition. Sutton has been a member of four Ryder Cup Teams, in 1985, 1987, 1999, and 2001, and has compiled a record of 7 wins, 5 losses and 4 halves. He was named PGA Player-ofthe-Year in 1983, only his second season on tour, and won the 1980 U.S. Amateur Championship. Along with his Ryder Cup participation, Sutton was also named to the 1988 and 2000 Presidents Cup teams; the 1979 and 1981 Walker Cup Teams; and the 1986 Nissan Cup Team. He formed the Hal Sutton Foundation in an effort to give back to the Shreveport community, which has supported him throughout his career. The Foundation has evolved into an organization that will financially support improving children’s healthcare, in particular the building of a children’s hospital in Shreveport, La.

Omar N. Bradley Spirit of Independence Award

2004: Independence Bowl officials were thrilled to announce retired four-star General Tommy Franks as the 2004 recipient of the Omar N. Bradley “Spirit of Independence Award.” Since its inception in 1978, this honor has been bestowed upon outstanding American citizens who symbolize the spirit of freedom and independence. Referred to as the “soldier’s soldier,” Franks ended his 38-year military career on August 1, 2003. During that span he served in four wars, was awarded three purple hearts and four Legion of Merit medals, earned an undergraduate degree in business administration and a Master’s in public administration and most recently spearheaded military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan after the September 11th attacks, as commander-in-chief of U.S. Central Command. He was named Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire this past May and is currently on tour promoting his memoirs – “American Soldier,” released in ’04.

2005: General Russel Honore, a native of Lakeland, La., is one of the country’s most decorated and experienced military figures. Most recently, General Honore served as Commander, Standing Joint Force Headquarters- Homeland Security, U.S. Northern Command. General Honore took charge and lead countless volunteers in the Hurricane Katrina and Rita recovery operation in the late summer and fall of 2005. Under Honore’s direction, thousands of stranded citizens were provided for and rescued from the Gulf Coast region following arguably the most devastating and destructive natural disaster in our nation’s history. Honore has served in a variety of command and staff positions throughout his distinguished career. His overseas assignments include tours in both Korea and Germany. He served as Commanding General, 2nd Infantry Division in Korea; Vice Director for Operations, J-3, The Joint Staff, Washington D.C.; Deputy Commanding General and Assistant Commandant, United States Army Infantry center and School, Fort Benning, Georgia; and Assistant Division Commander, Maneuver/Support 1st Calvary Division, Fort Hood, Texas. General Honore’s awards and distinctions include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Legion of Merit with four Oak Leaf Clusters, the Bronze Star Medal, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Army Commendation Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters.

2006: General Harold Moore, a native of Bardstown, Ky., retired as a 3-star General from the Army in 1977 after more than 32 years of active service. Moore was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant of Infantry in 1945 and proceeded to serve and command at all levels from Platoon through Division. Moore researched and wrote a book, “We Were Soldiers Once…. and Young” in 1992. He and his co-author, Joe Galloway of US News and World Report, began working on the book in 1982. The book focused on the first major battle of the Vietnam War, the “Battle of la Drang” from Nov. 1416, 1965 in Vietnam. The book, which spent 17 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list after its release, was made into a movie in 2002, with famed actor Mel Gibson playing the character of Gen. Moore. Galloway and Moore each participated in the “Battle of la Drang”, with Moore serving as Battalion Commander on the ground and Galloway as a UPI correspondent. Moore attended George Washington University for two years and then received his military appointment in 1942 and graduated from West Point in 1945. He also attended graduate studies at both George Washington and Harvard Universities. Moore was the first of his class (1945) to be promoted to brigadier general, major general, and lieutenant general. Moore served in the Korean War as a Company Commander and Regimental S3 (7th Division), and served in Vietnam as a Battalion and Brigade Commander (1st Cav.). Moore was also Commanding General of the 7th Infantry Division in Korea and Commander of Ft. Ord, Calif. He also served as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Personnel, Department of the Army. Moore was the recipient of the “2003 USO Patriot Award”, two Combat Infantryman Badges, and the Distinguished Service Cross (United States). Moore was also named a Master Paratrooper. Moore also received appointment to the Honorary Grade of Rifle Platoon Sergeant by the Sergeants-major of the 3rd Brigade, 1st CAV in Vietnam.

2007: Shreveport-Bossier Community Renewal. Since its founding, Community Renewal has touched the lives of more than 1,700 at-risk youth. The organization connects caring partners who turn their neighborhoods into safe havens of friendship and support. More than 25,000 people have joined the “We Care” team and over 850 have been trained to serve as Haven House leaders who help renew the city one neighbor and one city block at a time. Shreveport-Bossier Community Renewal believes that communities are revitalized through three strategies: The Renewal Team, which connects individuals, businesses, churches and others to create a more caring community; Haven House, which enlists residents to reach out to neighbors on the street where they live; and Friendship House, which brings hope to long-neglected neighborhoods struggling with crime, drugs, and unemployment. Other cities, such as Austin and Abilene, Texas, are now copying the model and bringing renewal to their communities. The National Center for Community Renewal is in development and will be based in a downtown Shreveport building that was donated to the organization.

2008: “Team Hoyt”: a father-son combination of Dick and Rick Hoyt from Massachusetts that travels the world to compete in marathons and triathlons including the “Ironman”- that daunting, almost superhuman, combination of 26.2 miles of running, 112 miles of bicycling, and 2.4 miles of swimming. Together they have climbed mountains, and once trekked 3,735 miles across America. Rick, with the help of his dad, has competed in the Boston Marathon 26 times, and in Ironman Triathlons six times. The Hoyts have competed in over 965 athletic events in the last 28 years. The goal of “Team Hoyt” is to integrate the physically challenged into everyday life. One way to accomplish this is to educate the able-bodied, making them more aware of the issues that the disabled face every day. Another is by actively helping the disabled to participate in activities that would otherwise be inaccessible to them. Team Hoyt targets both of these areas. For the past 28 years Dick, who is 68 and a retired lieutenant colonel in the military for over 37 years, has pushed and pulled his son across the country and over hundreds of finish lines. When Dick runs, Rick is in a wheelchair that Dick is pushing. When Dick cycles, Rick is in a seat-pod attached to the front of the bike. When Dick swims, Rick is in a small but heavy, firmly stabilized boat

General Russel Honore (2005)

General Harold Moore (2006)

Omar N. Bradley Spirit of Independence Award

being pulled by Dick. At Rick’s birth in 1962 the umbilical cord coiled around his neck and cut off oxygen to his brain. Dick and his wife at the time, Judy, were told that there would be no hope for their child’s development. At age 46 Rick is a graduate of Boston University with a degree in Special Education. The Hoyts have appeared on HBO’s “Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel,” where their segment recently won a Sports Emmy Award for Best Long feature. Team Hoyt also travels the world speaking out about people with disabilities and promoting the Team Hoyt motto, “Yes You Can.”

2009: The National Football Foundation’s mission “is to promote and develop the power of amateur football in developing the qualities of leadership, sportsmanship, competitive zeal and the drive for academic excellence in America’s young people.” Founded in 1947 with leadership from General Douglas MacArthur, legendary Army coach Earl “Red” Blaik and immortal journalist Grantland Rice, The National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame, a non-profit educational organization, runs programs designed to use the power of amateur football in developing scholarship, citizenship and athletic achievement in young people. With 121 chapters and 12,000 members nationwide, NFF programs include the College Football Hall of Fame in South Bend, Ind., Play It Smart, the NFF Hampshire Honor Society, the NFF National Scholar-Athlete Alumni Association, the NFF Gridiron Clubs of New York City, Dallas, and Los Angeles, and scholarships of over $1 million for college and high school scholar-athletes. The NFF presents the MacArthur Trophy, the Draddy Trophy, presented by HealthSouth, and releases the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) Standings.

2010: The mission of the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital “is to find cures, and means of prevention, for pediatric cancer and other catastrophic diseases through research and treatment.” St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital opened in February, 1962 in Memphis, Tenn.. and was founded by entertainer and 1983 Bradley recipient Danny Thomas. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is one of the world’s premier pediatric cancer research centers and has earned top rankings from Parents magazine, The Scientist, and U.S. News and World Report. In 2010, St. Jude was named No. 1 pediatric cancer hospital by U.S. News

and World Report. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is the first and only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children. St. Jude freely shares its discoveries, publishing more research articles than any other pediatric cancer research center in the United States. St. Jude treats more than 5,700 patients annually and is the only pediatric cancer research center that pays for all treatment not covered by insurance. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital has treated children from all 50 states and from around the world. St. Jude is both a pediatric hospital dedicated to the care of children with catastrophic illnesses and a research institution focused on discoveries to further advance the treatment of these diseases.

military awards and decorations include a Distinguished Medal of Service (with Oak Leaf Cluster), Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit (with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters), Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal (with 5 Oak Leaf Clusters), Army Commendation Medal (with Oak Leaf Cluster), Army Achievement Medal, Special Forces Tab, and Parachutist Badge.

2011: General Charles C. “Hondo” Campbell, a Shreveport native, was the 35th recipient of the award. Gen. Campbell retired on Aug. 1, 2010 after 40 years of service in the U.S. Army. He was leader of the U.S. Army Forces Command from Jan. 9, 2007 until his retirement. Gen. Campbell was the 17th Commanding General, United States Army Forces Command (FORSCOM). He previously served as FORSCOM’s Deputy Commanding General and Chief of Staff from April 26, 2006 to Jan. 8, 2007. He earned his commission through ROTC at LSU. His initial assignment was as an instructor at the Infantry Training Command (Provisional), United States Army Training Center Infantry, Fort Ord, Calif. Following Special Forces training, Campbell went on to teach tactics at Forces Armee’ National Khmere Training Command, Army Advisory Group, Phouc Tuy Training Battalion, United States Army, Vietnam. He subsequently served as Special Forces A-Detachment Executive Officer and Commander in Vietnam. His succeeding commands include a Combat Support in the 2d Armored Division, Fort Hood, Texas; a Tank Battalion in the 3d Armored Division, Germany; and an Armored Brigade in the 2d Infantry Division, Republic of Korea. He was also the Commanding General of the 7th Infantry Division at Fort Carlson, Colorado and the Commanding General, Eighth Army, Republic of Korea. Campbell’s

2012: Wounded Warrior Project® began when several veterans and friends, moved by stories of the first wounded service members returning home from Afghanistan and Iraq, took action to help others in need. What started as a program to provide comfort items to wounded service members has grown into a complete rehabilitative effort to assist them as they recover and transition back to civilian life. Tens of thousands of Wounded Warriors and family members receive support each year through 18 WWP programs designed to nurture the mind and body, and encourage economic empowerment and engagement. The mission of Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) is to honor and empower Wounded Warriors. WWP’s purpose is to raise awareness and to enlist the public’s aid for the needs of injured service members, to help injured servicemen and women aid and assist each other, and to provide unique, direct programs and services to meet their needs. WWP is a national, nonpartisan organization headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida.

2013: After the Empire of Japan attacked the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor in 1941, Lieutenant Colonel James “Jimmy” Doolittle led a group of 79 other volunteers – The Doolittle Raiders – on a secret and dangerous retaliatory mission against the Japanese. The men did not know the details of their mission until they were aboard the U.S. Navy’s aircraft carrier USS Hornet. The mission of the Doolittle Raiders, also known as the Tokyo Raiders, involved flying 16 U.S. Army B-25B Mitchell bombers off of the USS Hornet in a bombing run aimed at the Japanese mainland. Because it would be impossible to land the bombers on the aircraft, after the crews dropped their bombs, they were to land in China. However, still 650 nautical miles from Japan, the USS Nashville sunk a Japanese patrol boat, sending warning to Japan that an attack was coming. Doolittle decided to launch the attack 10 hours and 170 miles ahead of schedule. The Raiders hit their targets in Japan, but lacked the fuel to reach the safe airfields in China. Fifteen of the 16 crews

Wounded Warrior Project (2012)

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (2010)

Omar N. Bradley Spirit of Independence Award

crash-landed or bailed out; one landed in the Soviet Union. Three men drowned crashing into the ocean, while eight were taken captive by the Japanese. Three of the captives were executed, and the other five were imprisoned. Four men survived the imprisonment, but one did not make it through the deplorable conditions. Despite the fact that the raid did not cause the amount of damage as was hoped, it was still viewed as a success because it proved that the Japanese were not as impervious to attack as once believed. It also boosted the morale of U.S. soldiers and citizens alike. After the attack on Japan, many of the Doolittle Raiders continued to fight in the war. Twelve of the surviving Raiders were killed in combat. For their bravery and valor, all 80 Raiders received the Distinguished Flying Cross. The men who were imprisoned were awarded the Purple Heart, two men received the Silver Star and Doolittle earned the Medal of Honor. Lt. Col. Richard E. Cole accepted the “Spirit of Independence Award” on behalf the Doolittle Raiders. Cole, 98, was the co-pilot with Doolittle in the first plane to take off from the USS Hornet. After the raid, Cole remained in the ChinaBurma-India Theater flying combat and transport missions for more than a year. He remained on active duty with the Army until January 1947. In July of that year, he returned to active duty with the U.S. Air Force, occupying numerous posts across the globe until he retired from the military in 1966.

2014: The Tuskegee Airmen were the first black military aviators in the United States armed forces, making up the 332nd Fighter Group and 447th Bombardment Group of the U.S. Army. Because the military was still segregated, the black pilots trained at Moton Field and Tuskegee Army Air Field, both in Tuskegee, Ala. The 99th Fighter Squadron was the first to be comprised of men from the Tuskegee flight training program. As more pilots graduated from the program, they would form the 100th, 301st and 302nd Fighter Squadrons. These four squadrons made up the 332nd Fighter Group. The 99th Fighter Squadron was the first to see combat, initially being sent to North Africa. They then moved to support the Allied campaign in Italy and then Germany, joining the rest of the 332nd Fighter Group in Europe. The 332nd received its nickname, Red Tails, because of the distinctive paint job used to identify the unit. They were also

referred to as the Red-Tail Angels by the bomber crews they protected during escort missions. In addition to pilots, participants in the Tuskegee Experience of World War II included men and women who were bombardiers, navigators, aircraft maintenance, ground crew, flight instructors and support personnel. Through their courage, valor and exemplary record in combat, the Tuskegee Airmen helped to pave the way for racial integration in the U.S. armed forces.

2015: The Berlin Airlift, known officially as “Operation Vittles,” is the largest humanitarian airlift in history. The Berlin Airlift Veterans were responsible for supplying the citizens of Berlin with muchneeded food and supplies following World War II. At the conclusion of the War, the Allied nations of the United States, the Soviet Union and Great Britain held peace conferences in Yalta and Potsdam in order to determine how post-war Germany would be divided among the nations. The Soviet Union received a portion in eastern Germany, while the U.S. and Great Britain received territories in Western Germany. The U.S. and Great Britain also split parts of their territories to give to the French. The capital city of Berlin was also divided among the nations, but the city itself was located well inside the Soviet’s territory. Soviet soldiers were notorious for acts of violence and thievery against Berliners. The Soviets wanted complete control of Berlin, so they shut down all of the highways, railroads and canals into the city, blockading it from the Western nations. With the citizens of Berlin lacking food, fuel and other necessary supplies, the leaders of the Western nations devised a plan to get those items into Berlin. None of the nations wanted to return to war, so military force was out of the question. At the peace conferences, air corridors into Berlin were created and agreed upon by the Allies. These air corridors would be used to ferry in supplies via C-47s, and eventually, the larger C-54s. Early on during the airlift, 1,000-2,000 tons were flown in daily. It was determined that to feed 2.5 million West Berliners, it was

necessary to deliver 5,000 tons daily, which was quickly accomplished. The planes would land in three-minute intervals all throughout the day. The pilots would work in shifts, and put great trust into the ground control approach operators who helped guide them onto the ground through all forms of inclement weather All told, the pilots and ground crews of the Berlin Airlift were responsible for delivering 2.3 millions tons of cargo over the course of the blockade, which lasted just under a year. Supplies were flown in even after the blockade was lifted in case the Soviets tried the tactic again. The round-the-clock efforts of the Berlin Airlift Veterans ensured the Soviets did not seize total control of the capital.

2016: The Battle of Chosin Reservoir took place in late November and early December of 1950 during the Korean War, as the Chinese launched an offensive against United Nations forces, mainly the 1st Marine Division of the U.S. X Corps. The Battle of the Chosin Reservoir Veterans consisted of the X Corps, consisting of the 1st Marine Division and the 7th Infantry Division, as well as other US Army units, under the command of Major General Ned Almond, marched 55 miles to the Chosin Reservoir – a man-made lake located in the mountainous region northeast of the Korean Peninsula – on the orders of General Douglas MacArthur, commander of all allied forces in the United Nations Command. The X Corps not only had to battle the Chinese, but also the terrain and bitterly cold temperatures, as North Korea experienced the coldest winter in 100 years. China dispatched the Ninth Army Group to eliminate the 1st Marine Division at various strongholds surrounding the Chosin Reservoir. Outnumbered 8-to-1 and enduring the elements, the X Corps held its positions during days and nights of intense fighting. Almond and MacArthur met in Tokyo and made the decision to have the X Corps retreat to the nearest port to preserve the unit’s fighting strength. The units began to fight their way south to the coast after airlifting out the most critically wounded. The Marines set off on a 78-mile journey to the Sea of Japan to reunite with American forces. During the 13-day trek, the Marines fought through 10 Chinese infantry divisions. Though the Chinese were able to fight the X Corps out of the Chosin Reservoir, they took estimated losses between 40,000 and 80,000. The 1st Marine Division lost 4,385 men to combat and 7,338 to the weather conditions, while the rest of the X Corps

Berlin Airlift Veterans (2015)

Tuskegee Airmen (2014)

Omar N. Bradley Spirit of Independence Award

lost an estimated 6,000 men. The X Corps, however, maintained much of its fighting strength and later rejoined the war effort in Korea. The men of the 1st Marine Division received a Presidential Unit Citation, and all of the UN troops who fought would later earn the nickname, “The Chosin Few.”

2017: Chief Executive Officer of 22KILL and retired Marine Corporal Jacob P. Schick, who grew up in Bossier City, is a third-generation Marine who served his country during Operation Iraqi Freedom. While in the Al Anbar Province of Iraq in 2004, a triplestacked tank mine detonated underneath Schick’s vehicle during a combat operation. Schick suffered compound fractures in his left arm and leg, multiple skin, ligament and bone losses, numerous burns and partial loss of his left hand. He had his right leg amputated below the knee, and suffered from traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder. Due to his injuries, Schick has undergone 46 surgeries, 23 blood transfusions and hours upon hours of physical therapy. The mental pain associated with his diagnoses of TBI and PTSD were worse for Schick than the physical pain. Since returning home, Schick has become an advocate for mental health among warriors returning home from tours of duty. He serves as the CEO of a non-profit organization called 22KILL, whose purpose is to raise awareness of the epidemic of suicide among veterans. Through partnerships across the country, the organization offers in-house programs to empower veterans, first responders, law enforcement officers, and their families. The organization began as a social media movement to raise awareness of the suicide epidemic in 2013 with the “22 Pushup Challenge,” and became a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in 2015. The name 22KILL is derived from the average of 22 veterans who die by suicide per day. Schick has made appearances on national and local platforms to promote suicide prevention among veterans, including James Gandolfini’s HBO Special “Alive Day Memories: Home from Iraq” and “60 Minute Sports.” He contributed to Clint Eastwood’s production of “American Sniper” and will appear in “A Star is Born,” a Bradley Cooper production set to debut in May.

2018: Brigadier General Jeannie

2019: Air

M. Leavitt - who was serving as the Commander of the Air Force Recruiting Service at Joint Base San AntonioRandolph, Texas in 2018 - became the U.S. Air Force’s first female fighter pilot in 1993 and was the first woman to command a U.S. Air Force combat fighter wing. The Air Force Recruiting Service comprises more than 2,470 Airmen and civilians in more than 1,200 recruiting offices nationwide and abroad, and she is responsible for all enlisted accessions and a variety of officer accession programs. The Air Force Recruiting Service also manages all strategic marketing for the U.S. Air Force.

Born in St. Louis, Missouri, General Leavitt first entered the Air Force in 1992 after earning her bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering from the University of Texas and a master’s degree in aeronautics and astronautics from Stanford University. She began formal combat training in the McDonnell Douglas F-15E Strike Eagle after restrictions on women flying combat missions were eliminated in April of 1993. This propelled her to becoming the service’s first female fighter pilot. General Leavitt has commanded at the flight, squadron and wing level, and she is a graduate and former instructor of the U.S. Air Force Weapons School. She is a command pilot with more than 3,000 hours, including 300 F-15 combat hours - mostly in Afghanistan and Iraq. Her operations experiences include Operations Southern Watch, Northern Watch, Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. Prior to becoming the Commander of the Air Force Recruiting Service, General Leavitt served as the 57th Wing Commander at Nells Air Force Base in Nevada. It is the Air Force’s most diverse flying wing comprised of 37 squadrons at 13 installations with a variety of more than 130 aircraft.

Force Lieutenant General James M. Kowalski retired from the United States Air Force in September 2015. His most recent post was as the Deputy Commander of U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) at Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraskatasked with strategic deterrence and nuclear, space and cyberspace operations. Throughout his 35 years on active duty, his impact reached throughout the United States and the world. An alumni of the University of Cincinnati’s ROTC program, General Kowalski held a variety of operations commands, including a bomb squadron, operations group, bomb wing, expeditionary wing, air control wing and an Air Force Major Command. Prior to his post at USSTRATCOM, General Kowalski led the establishment of Air Force Global Strike Command, the Air Force’s first new Major Command in 37 years, subsequently serving as its first vice commander and then commander. His wartime experience includes command of the 405th Air Expeditionary Wing in Southwest Asia - where he led a combined wing of B-1Bs, E-3s and KC-135s for operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. His staff assignments include Air Combat Command, Headquarters U.S. Air Force and the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Throughout his notable military career, General Kowalski earned a number of major awards and decorations. This list of distinguished honors includes the Bronze Star, Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal (Air Force), Defense Superior Service Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal and the Air Medal. General Kowalski held three different posts at local Barksdale Air Force Base. His first stop at Barksdale was from May 1999 through December 2000 as the Commander of the 2nd Operations Group. More recently, he was the Vice Commander of the Air Force Global Strike Command from August 2009 through January 2011 and the Commander of the Air Force Global Strike Command from January 2011 through October 2013.

Cpl. Jacob P. Schick, ret. (2017)

Lt. Gen. James M. Kowalski (2019)

Omar N. Bradley Spirit of Independence Award

2021: Retired United States Army Lieutenant General Joseph M. Cosumano, Jr., a graduate of Northwestern State University, served in the U.S. Army from 1968 to 2004, and has been honored with a plethora of decorations throughout his career. In his 35 years of service, he was honored with the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Army Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit with two Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, Meritorious Service Medal with three Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Commendation Medal with three Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, and National Defense Service Medal with Bronze Service Star. The Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster denotes receiving each respective award multiple times. Cosumano began his path to a military career at Northwestern Statewhere he earned both his undergraduate and graduate degrees, while also being in the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps. He later received his commission in the U.S. Army as Second Lieutenant through the program, beginning his 35 years of military service. The multitude of accomplishments and successes in LTG Cosumano’s U.S. Army career are headlined by his efforts to lead the U.S. military equipment and defenses into the 21st century. He was the chief of the Army’s Force Modernization program, where he was responsible for the requirements and funding of all Army equipment and equipping and designing all organizations of the Army. Along with that, he also was the Director of the Objective Force Task Force to develop requirements, technology and resources for the Army in the 21st century. LTG Cosumano was also the program manager of the National Missile Defense - initiating, funding and bringing under contract the most challenging Department of Defense program in record time. The program was designed to defend the U.S. against intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) attacks. It was fielded just seven years after its inception in 2004, which is 11 years quicker than average Department of Defense programs of this size are fielded. His final assignment in the Army was as the Commanding General of the Space and Missile Defense Command (SMDC) and the U.S. Army Space Command. In this role, he led the organization that was tasked to support war fighters. The organization was also responsible for developing the space and missile defense programs, with over 2,000 scientists and engineers in Huntsville, Ala. Following his

decorated military career, Cosumano was the Senior Vice President of Strategy and Business Development for ATK Thiokol from 2004 to 2005. In this role, he was tasked with developing a new strategy plan for the company following the elimination of the Shuttle Program, and he identified Thiokol products that became a part of NASA’s new ARES program and ICBM upgrade programs for the Navy and Air Force. From 2005 to 2008, Cosumano served as the Senior Vice President of Kellogg Brown and Root. At KBR, LTG Cosumano helped a company that was on the brink of default on several Department of Defense projects and helped the organization surge to 64,000 employees worldwide and greater than $5 billion annually in revenue. Some of the key projects and programs under Cosumano were Logistics and Engineering across Iraq and Afghanistan (LOGCAP) and Restoration of Iraq Oil. Following his time at KBR, Cosumano spent 2008 to 2011 as the President and CEO of Agility Defense and Government Services. At Agility, he established policies and procedures for the small, family-owned business to establish a Special Security Arrangement (SSA)firewall required by the Department of Defense to operate in the U.S. Defense Market. Cosumano set up a strategic plan and board of directors that facilitated rapid growth and a strong business network with highlevel defense companies. Cosumano’s final role was as the President and CEO of the CFD Research Corporation in Huntsville, Ala. from 2013 to 2016. He led one of the nation’s top research and development companiesleveraging the company’s aerospace highfidelity modeling knowledge to apply it to bio-technical and bio-medical solutions. Cosumano has served as a CFD board member from 2016-2020.

2022: The Veterans of Operation Secret Squirrel were honored with the 2022 Omar N. Bradley Spirit of Independence Award. Operation Secret Squirrel was a long-range B-52G Stratofortess cruise missile strike against Iraqi targets that initiated the bombing campaign during the Gulf War in 1991. The mission took place on January 16, 1991 and was led by mission commander Lt. Col John Beard – who was also the commanding officer of Barksdale Air Force Base's 596th Bomb Squadron. The operation is officially dubbed Operation Senior Surprise, but it was given the unofficial nickname of Operation Secret Squirrel by the B-52 crews because “we couldn’t say the real code name [“Senior Surprise”] out loud, and it had the same initials,” noted Maj. Steve Hess, chief weapon system officer for the unit. Through the six months of August 1990 into January 1991, Operation DESERT SHIELD was put in motion as U.S. and coalition forces deployed to forward locations and prepared for the potential of military action to compel Iraqi forces to leave Kuwait. Through those six months, Airmen from the 596th Bomb Squadron at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana prepared for a top-secret mission. On a rainy morning, Wednesday January 16, 1991, seven B-52Gs from that unit thundered down runway 15 and climbed eastward destined for targets deep inside Iraq. The Air Force Core values of Integrity, Service and Excellence melded with six months of intensive training enabling the Airmen to meet United States’ national direction and set these aviators on a course to make combat aviation history by opening Operation DESERT STORM. Senior Surprise was executed January 16-17, 1991. The Airmen flew non-stop from Barksdale to the Middle East and back launching 35 top secret Conventional Air Launched Cruise Missiles in their first-ever combat use. Supported by 38 tanker sorties, the team traversed more than 14,000 nautical miles in 35 hours, successfully destroyed critical targets, and returned home safely. Iraq’s electrical grid and communications nodes were among the targets, and the raid was ultimately pegged as having achieved between eighty-five and ninety-one percent of its objectives - making Iraq "blind and deaf."

CJCS Gen Colin Powell stated in an early press conference, "first we will make them blind and deaf, and then make them lose the will to fight," so the Senior Surprise veterans view themselves as that allimportant part of the opening hours of the campaign. The crews were under strict

Lt. Gen Joseph M. Cosumano (2021)

Veterans of Operation Secret SquirreL (2022)

Omar N. Bradley Spirit of Independence Award

orders not to discuss the mission, which would not be officially acknowledged until exactly a year later. Only then could they discuss the mission and show off the Air Medals awarded for their historic and “unprecedented demonstration of Global Reach, Global Power.” There were 57 airmen that manned the seven bombers during the 35-hour, 14,000-nautical mile flight. It was the longest combat mission in aviation history at the time - surpassing the previous record set by the Vulcan bombers of the Royal Air Force during the 1982 Falkland's War in the South Atlantic. The record stood until 2003 when it was broken by B-2s flying to Afghanistan. Four of the 57 airmen have passed away since the mission, and during annual reunions, the Senior Surprise veterans conduct a solemn toast to remember their brothers. Of the seven B-52Gs flown in the mission, two survive to this day. "Valkyrie" is located at the Pima Air Museum in Arizona, and "El Lobo" is located at the Armament Museum outside of Fort Walton Beach, Fla.

2023: The Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) were honored with the Omar N. Bradley Spirit of Independence Award in 2023. “These amazing women did what they loved by stepping up to serve their country during a time of great need. The WASP flew out of the blue and into history making it possible for today’s women pilots to chart their own course. Their legacy of confidence, courage, and commitment to our nation stands as a testament that inspires and motivates people of all ages. As General Henry 'Hap' Arnold said, ‘you and…your sisters have shown that you can fly wingtip to wingtip with your brothers. If ever there was a doubt in anyone’s mind that women can become skillful pilots, the WASP have dispelled that doubt.’ The Women Airforce Service Pilots are honored to receive the 2023 Omar N. Bradley Spirit of Independence Award,” said Kimberly Johnson, Director of Special Collections, at Texas Woman’s University. TWU has served as the official archive for the WASP since 1992. The WASP were a civilian women pilots' organization whose members became trained pilots. They tested aircraft, ferried aircraft, and trained other pilots during World War II. Their service allowed male pilots to be freed for combat duties during World War II. On August 5, 1943, the Women’s Flying Training Detachment (WFTD) and the Women’s Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron (WAFS), the two pioneering organizations of civilian women pilots, merged to create WASP. From then until December 20, 1944, the WASP flew over 60 million miles,

transported every type of military aircraft, towed targets for live anti-aircraft gun practice and simulated strafing missions and transported cargo. Their duties were paramount in the combat efforts of the United States Army Air Forces, as WASP freed around 900 male pilots for combat duties. Women pilots flew 80 percent of all ferrying missions during the war and delivered over 12,000 aircraft. During the 17 months of their arrangement with the US Army Air Forces, 38 WASP members lost their lives, and one member, Gertrude Tompkins, disappeared while on a ferry mission. Her fate is still unknown to this day. In 1977, 33 years after they served during World War II, the members of WASP were granted veteran status, but their highest honor came in 2009 when they were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal.

2024: General Bryan P. Fenton has been named the 47th recipient of the prestigious award. Gen. Fenton was honored at halftime of the 2024 Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl. GEN Fenton currently serves as the 13th Commander of the U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), located at MacDill Air Force Base, Fla. where he oversees all Special Operations for the U.S. Department of Defense with 70,000 Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Special Operations personnel. An extremely decorated Special

Forces (Green Beret) Officer, General Fenton's awards and recognitions include the French Commando Badge, Cruz de la Victoria Medal from Chile, Princess of Thailand awarded Thai Jumpmaster Wings, University of Notre Dame's Moose Krause Service Award and Rev. William Corby Award for Distinguished Military Service, and the Business Executives for National Security Eisenhower Award. Before assuming command of USSOCOM, GEN Fenton was the Commander of Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC), and prior to that, he was the Senior Military Assistant for two U.S. Secretaries of Defense. He has held a multitude of general officer assignments in his career, including Deputy Commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, Commander of U.S. Special Operations – Pacific, and Deputy Commanding General of the U.S. Army's 25th Infantry Division in Hawaii. Throughout his long military career, GEN Fenton has deployed numerous times. He participated in Operation Joint Force in Bosnia, Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Africa, Operations Iraqi Freedom and Inherent Resolve in Iraq and Operation Pacific Eagle in the Phillipines. He has also served in Areas of Responsibility – including U.S. Southern Command, U.S. European Command, U.S. Africa Command, U.S. Central Command and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command.

Women Airforce Service Pilots (2023)

GENERAL BRYAN P. FENTON (2024)

Omar N. Bradley Spirit of Independence Award

2025: General (Ret.) Charles A. Flynn has been named the 48th recipient of the prestigious award. General Flynn is a retired United States Army general who served in the U.S. Army from 1985 to 2024. His most recent post was as the commanding general of United States Army Pacific at Fort Shafter, Hawaii from 2021 to 2024. Throughout his illustrious career, he held a variety of command and leadership positions, and he has received numerous awards and honors.

General Flynn’s awards and decorations include the Distinguished Service Medal (one oak leaf cluster), Legion of Merit (two oak leaf clusters), Bronze Star (four oak leaf clusters), the Defense Meritorious Service Medal (one oak leaf cluster), the Meritorious Service Medal (two oak leaf clusters), Combat Infantryman’s Badge (with star), Expert Infantryman’s Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, Air

Assault Badge, Ranger Tab and Pathfinder Badge.

To begin his career, Flynn was an Infantry officer and completed Ranger, Airborne and Pathfinder courses. Early in his career, he was the commander of A Company, 4th Battalion, 325th Infantry Regiment and A Company 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. Later, he commanded the 2nd Battalion, 504th Infantry Regiment and deployed for Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. He then deployed to Iraq again as commander of the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division.

General Flynn continued to advance through the ranks and served as the Executive Assistant for the Director of the Joint Staff and Executive Officer of the Commander for the Commander of

International Security Assistance Force, United States Forces –Afghanistan. He then served as the Director of the Mission Command Center of Excellence and acting Commander of the United States Army Combined Arms Center.

The 82nd Airborne Division was again his next stop, as he served as the Deputy Commander for Operations and Assistant Operations Officer for Readiness for United States Army Forces Command. General Flynn then served as the 25th Infantry Division Commander before becoming the Deputy Commanding General for the United States Army Pacific.

On November 30, 2020, Flynn's nomination for promotion to general was submitted to the United States Senate and was confirmed on December 20, 2020. After serving as Deputy Chief of Staff for Army operations, plans and training at the Pentagon, General Flynn assumed command of the United States Army's largest Service Component Command, U.S. Army Pacific (USARPAC), on June 4, 2021.

General (Ret.) Charles A. Flynn (2025)

/ CHAIR

Dec. 13, 1976

Lee Bryant

Dec. 17, 1977

Ed Powell

Dec. 16, 1978

Bill Brandon

Dec. 15, 1979

Skippy Shirley McNeese State

Dec. 13, 1980

Milton Chapman

Dec. 12, 1981

Milton Chapman

Dec. 11, 1982

All-Time Results

19,164 (O) Terry McFarland, McNeese State

(D) Terry Clark, Tulsa

(O) Keith Thibodeaux, Louisiana Tech

(D) Otis Wilson, Louisville

31,054 (O) Theodore Sutton, East Carolina

(D) Zack Valentine, East Carolina

(O) Joe Morris, Syracuse

(D) Clay Carroll, McNeese State

42,600 (O) Stephen Starring, McNeese State

(D) Jerald Baylis, Southern Miss

(O) Gary Kubiak, Texas A&M

(D) Mike Green, Oklahoma State

46,244 (O) Randy Wright, Wisconsin

Ken Hanna Kansas State 3 6-5 (D) Tim Krumrie, Wisconsin

Dec. 10, 1983 Air Force 9 10-2 41,274 (O) Marty Louthan, Air Force

Tracy Jackson Ole Miss 3 7-5 (D) Andre Townsend, Ole Miss

Dec. 15, 1984

Cecil Lloyd

Dec. 21, 1985

Cecil Lloyd

Dec. 20, 1986

(O) Bart Weiss, Air Force

(D) Scott Thomas, Air Force

(O) Rickey Foggie, Minnesota

(D) Bruce Holmes, Minnesota

(O) Mark Young, Ole Miss Jim Thompson

Dec. 19,

(D) James Mosley, Texas Tech

(O) Chris Chandler, Washington Smokey

(D) David Rill,

23,

(O&D) James Henry, Southern Miss Mike

Dec. 16,

Dec. 15, 1990

Dec. 29,

Dec. 31, 1992

(O) Bill Musgrave, Oregon

(D) Chris Oldham, Oregon

(O) Michael Richardson, Louisiana Tech

(D) Lorenza Baker, Louisiana Tech

(O) Andre Hastings, Georgia

(D) Torrey Evans, Georgia

(O) Todd Dixon, Wake Forest Orvis Sigler

Dec. 31, 1993

Mike McCarthy

Dec. 28, 1994

Brown

Dec. 29, 1995

(D) Herman O’Berry, Oregon

(O) Maurice DeShazo, Virginia Tech

(D) Antonio Banks, Virginia Tech

(O) Mike Groh, Virginia

(D) Mike Frederick, Virginia

(O) Kevin Faulk, LSU Carl Mikovich

Dec. 31, 1996

Rick Holland

Dec. 28, 1997

Ken Antee

Dec. 31, 1998

Richard Caldwell

Dec. 31, 1999

Sandy Cimino

Dec. 31, 2000

Pesky Hill

Dec. 27, 2001

Lindy Broderick

Dec. 27, 2002

Randy James

Dec. 31, 2003

Don Jagot

Dec. 28, 2004

Jack Lee

(D) Gabe Northern, LSU

(O) Dameyune Craig, Auburn

(D) Takeo Spikes, Auburn (D) Ricky Neal, Auburn

(O) Rondell Mealey, LSU

(D) Arnold Miller, LSU

(O) Romaro Miller, Ole Miss

(D) Kendrick Clancy, Ole Miss

(O) Josh Huepel, Oklahoma

(D) Tim Strickland, Ole Miss

(O) Ja’Mar Toombs, Texas A&M

(D) Willie Blade, Mississippi State

(O) Seneca Wallace, Iowa State

(D) Matt Word, Iowa State (D) Waine Bacon, Alabama

(O) Eli Manning, Ole Miss

(D) Chris Kelsay, Nebraska

(O) Cedric Cobbs, Arkansas

(D) Caleb Miller, Arkansas

(O) Bret Meyer, Iowa State

(D) Nik Moser, Iowa State

All-Time Results

Dec. 30, 2005

David Nichols

Dec. 28, 2006

Markey Pierre

Dec. 30, 2007

Dec. 28, 2008

Keith Bergeron

Dec. 28, 2009

Toni Goodin

Dec. 27, 2010

Jim Hagan

Dec. 26, 2011

Fred Sexton Jr.

Dec. 28, 2012

Jack Andres

Dec. 31,

John Hubbard

Dec. 27, 2014

Dec. 26,

(O) Brad Smith, Missouri

(D) Marcus King, Missouri

(O) Dantrell Savage, Oklahoma State

(D) Jeremy Nethon, Oklahoma State

(O) John Parker Wilson, Alabama

(D) Wallace Gilberry, Alabama

(O) Phillip Livas. Louisiana Tech

(D) Weldon Brown, Louisiana Tech

(O) Aron White, Georgia

(D) Geno Atkins, Georgia

(O) Jared Tew, Air Force

(D) Rick Ricketts, Air Force

(O) James Franklin, Missouri

(D) Andrew Wilson, Missouri

(O) Beau Blankenship, Ohio

(O) Tyler Tettleton, Ohio (D) Keith Moore, Ohio

(O) B.J. Denker, Arizona

(D) William Parks, Arizona

(O) Pharoh Cooper, South Carolina

(D) Skai Moore, South Carolina

(O) Isaiah Ford, Virginia Tech

(D) Jeremy Brady, Tulsa

(O) Jaylen Samuels, NC State

(D) Airius Moore,

(O) James Blackman, Florida State Darin

(D) Nate Andrews, Florida State Dec. 27,

(O) Daniel Jones,

(D) Delvon Randall, Temple

Dec. 26, 2019

(O) Justin Henderson, Louisiana Tech Art Carmody IV

Dec. 18, 2021

Frank Auer

Dec. 23, 2022

(D) Connor Taylor, Louisiana Tech

(O) Tyler Allgeier, BYU

(D) Tyler Batty, BYU

(O) Clayton Tune, Houston

(D) Art Green, Houston Dec. 16, 2023

(O) Behren Morton, Texas Tech Bryan Roppolo

Dec. 28, 2024

Claire Rebouche

(D) Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech

(O) Bryson Daily, Army

(D) Kalib Fortner, Army

Team Win-Loss Records

Team Win-Loss records

RANKED TEAMS IN INDEPENDENCE BOWLS

Coaching Records & Championship Coaches

Steve Addazio Boston College 2013 0-1 .000

Frank Beamer Virginia Tech 1993, 2015 2-0 1.000

Todd Berry ULM 2012 0-1 .000

Terry Bowden Auburn 1996 1-0 1.000

Billy Brewer Ole Miss 1983, 1986 1-1 .500

Rich Brooks Oregon 1989, 1992 1-1 .500

Mack Brown Tulane 1987 0-1 .000

Troy Calhoun Air Force

Bill Clark UAB

Bobby Collins Southern Miss

Jack Crowe Arkansas 1991

Sonny Cumbie Louisiana Tech 2024

David Cutcliffe Ole Miss/Duke '98, '99, '02/'18 4-0

Bob Davie Notre Dame 1997 0-1 .000

Fisher DeBerry Air Force 1984 1-0 1.000

Michael Desormeaux Louisiana 2022 0-1 .000

Manny Diaz Miami 2019 0-1 .000

Jim Dickey Kansas State 1982

Gerry DiNardo

Dave Doeren

Jack Doland McNeese State 1976 1-0

Bill Dooley Va. Tech/Wake Forest 1984/1992 1-1 .500

Derek Dooley

F.A. Dry

Ernie Duplechin

Pat Dye East Carolina 1978 1-0

Spike Dykes Texas Tech 1986, 1998 0-2

Ed Foley

Danny

Dennis Franchione

Mike Gundy

INDEPENDENCE BOWL HEAD COACHES TO WIN A NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

*Defunct

+Now

%No

Conference Records

INDEPENDENTS

Game-by-Game results

MCNEESE STATE - 20 TULSA - 16

December 13, 1976

Attendance: 19,164

1st – During the early years of the Independence Bowl the Southland Conference – now competing at the NCAA FCS level – provided their conference champion as the host for the event.

McNeese State captured the Southland Conference crown and squared off against the University of Tulsa. A crowd of 19,164 fans watched the inaugural game as the Cowboys of McNeese defeated Tulsa’s Golden Hurricanes 20-16 in the Stadium named after the Independence Bowl.

Coaches: Jack Doland – McNeese State; F.A. Dry – Tulsa MVPs: (O) Terry McFarland, McNeese State; (D) Terry Clark, Tulsa Weather: Partly Cloudy

SCORING

1st Quarter: TULSA – (4:56) Thomas Bailey 1-yard run (Steve Cox kick); MCNEESE STATE – (0:11) Jan Peebles 42-yard field goal

2nd Quarter: MCNEESE STATE – (0:30) Peebles 34-yard field goal

3rd Quarter: MCNEESE STATE – (6:57) Mike McArthur 1-yard run (Terry McFarland run); TULSA – (4:07) Mel McGowen 65-yard blocked field goal return (kick blocked)

4th Quarter: TULSA – (4:22) Cox 38-yard field goal; MCNEESE STATE – (0:37) Oliver Hadnot 25-yard run (pass incomplete)

TEAM STATISTICS TULSA MCNEESE STATE

First Downs 17 11

Rushes-Net Yards 45-108 46-152

Net Yards Passing 172 57

Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 13-30-1 5-18-1

Total Plays 75 64

Total Net Yards 280 209

Fumbles-Lost 7-3 3-1

Penalties-Yards 16-100 11-105

Punts-Average 5-29.6 9-38.9

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

MCNEESE STATE: Terry McFarland 17-71; Oliver Hadnot 13-57, 1 TD; Mike McArthur 13-19, 1 TD; Russell Jackson 2-5; Jimmy Morvant 1-0

TULSA: Thomas Bailey 16-60, 1 TD; Ron Hickerson 13-17; Paul Roberson 4-13; Dave Rader 6-8; Greg Zoschak 3-8; Rickey Watts 3-2

PASSING

MCNEESE STATE: Terry McFarland 4/15 (26.7%), 29 yards, 0 TD, 1 INT; Mike McArthur 1/2 (50%), 28 yards; Jimmy Morvant 0/1

TULSA: Ron Hickerson 8/20 (40%), 127 yards; Dave Rader 5/10 (50%), 45 yards, 0 TD, 1 INT

RECEIVING

MCNEESE STATE: Andy Heisser 2-35; Richard Ellender 2-19; Mike McArthur 1-3

TULSA: David Powell 3-70; Cornell Webster 3-39; Marcus Hatley 2-26; Rickey Watts 3-18; Jerry Taylor 1-14; Paul Roberson 1-(-5) PUNTING

MCNEESE STATE: Terry McFarland 9/38.9

TULSA: Eddie Hare 5/29.6

LOUISIANA TECH - 24

LOUISVILLE - 14

December 17, 1977

Attendance: 22,223

2nd – Nearby Louisiana Tech came to town in year number two. Tech jumped out to an early lead against the Cardinals of Louisville, as the Bulldogs scored 21 firstquarter points. But the crowd of 22,223 saw Louisville mount a comeback, and Tech had to fight to hold on for a 24-14 win over the visitors from Kentucky.

Coaches: Vince Gibson – Louisville; Maxie Lambright – Louisiana Tech

MVPs: (O) Keith Thibodeaux, Louisiana Tech; (D) Otis Wilson, Louisville

SCORING

1st Quarter: LOUISVILLE – (13:10) Kevin Miller 60-yard punt return (Pedro Posadas kick); LOUISIANA TECH – (8:49) Charlie Lewis 1-yard run (Keith Swilley kick); (5:22) George Pree 41-yard pass from Keith Thibodeaux (Swilley); (2:11) Larry McCartney 8-yard pass from Thibodeaux (Swilley)

2nd Quarter: LOUISIANA TECH – (1:49) Swilley 21-yard field goal

3rd Quarter: LOUISVILLE – (9:51) Miller 13-yard run (Posadas)

TEAM STATISTICS LOUISIANA TECH LOUISVILLE

First Downs 25 11

Rushes-Net Yards 44-48 44-100

Net Yards Passing 287 61

Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 19-39-2 9-23-1

Fumbles-Lost 6-3 8-3

Penalties-Yards 4-36 8-92 Punts-Average 6-32.2 8-38.4

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

LOUISIANA TECH: Charlie Lewis 17-59, 1 TD; Ricky Herren 9-36; Bryan Leviston 6-12; Joe Singleton 4-4; George Yates 1-1; Larry McCartney 1-(-6)

LOUISVILLE: Nathan Poole 17-50; Calvin Prince 13-12; Stu Stram 7-4; Terry Mullins 2-24; Ronald Moon 2-8; Kevin Miller 1-13, 1 TD; Randy Butler 2-(-2)

PASSING

LOUISIANA TECH: Keith Thibodeaux 19/39 (48.7%), 287 yards, 2 TD, 2 INT

LOUISVILLE: Stu Stram 7/18 (38.9%), 65 yards, 0 TD, 1 INT; Terry Mullins 2/5 (40%), 0 yards

RECEIVING

LOUISIANA TECH: Larry McCartney 5-71, 1 TD; Rod Foppe 4-78; George Pree 1-41, 1 TD; Charlie Lewis 4-22; Ricky Herren 1-17; Scooter Spruiell 1-15; Bryan Leviston 1-12; Les Loper 1-11

LOUISVILLE: Calvin Prince 3-(-3); Mark Besanceney 2-25; Marc Mitchell 3-17; Kevin Miller 1-17; Nathan Poole 1-5 PUNTING

LOUISIANA TECH: Keith Thibodeaux 6/32.2

LOUISVILLE: Richard Pennella 8/38.4

SCORE BY QUARTERS

BY QUARTERS

Game-by-Game results

EAST CAROLINA - 35

LOUISIANA TECH - 13

December 16, 1978

Attendance: 31,054

3rd – Louisiana Tech made a return visit to Independence Stadium after capturing its second consecutive Southland Conference title. Tech took on the Pirates of East Carolina, who walked away with a convincing 35-13 victory over the Bulldogs.

Coaches: Maxie Lambright – Louisiana Tech; Pat Dye – East Carolina MVPs: (O) Theodore Sutton, East Carolina; (D) Zack Valentine, East Carolina

SYRACUSE - 31 MCNEESE STATE - 7

December 15, 1979

Attendance: 27,234

4th – McNeese made a second trip north in only four years, as they took on the Orangemen of Syracuse. For the first time in the Bowl’s short history the game was televised to a national audience by WTBS.

McNeese kept the game close until the fourth quarter when Syracuse erupted for 21 fourth-quarter points, and the final score was 31-7, Syracuse.

Coaches: Ernie Duplechin – McNeese State; Frank Maloney – Syracuse MVPs: (O) Joe Morris, Syracuse; (D) Clay Carroll, McNeese State

SCORING

1st Quarter: EAST CAROLINA – (7:58) Anthony Collins 3-yard run (Bill Lamm kick); (0:39) Leander Green 1-yard run (Lamm)

2nd Quarter: EAST CAROLINA – (10:47) Collins 1-yard run (Lamm); LOUISIANA TECH – (9:05) Scooter Spruiell 32-yard pass from Thibodeaux (Keith Swilley kick); (0:57) Swilley 36-yard field goal

3rd Quarter: LOUISIANA TECH – (8:34) Swilley 36-yard field goal; EAST CAROLINA – (6:57) Theodore Sutton 45-yard run (Lamm) 4th Quarter: EAST CAROLINA – (3:20) Eddie Hicks 3-yard run (Lamm)

TEAM STATISTICS EAST CAROLINA LOUISIANA TECH

First Downs 17 18

Rushes-Net Yards 67-278 33-12

Net Yards Passing 54 263 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 4-13-0 18-52-3

Total

SCORING

2nd Quarter: SYRACUSE – (11:12) Gary Anderson 40-yard field goal

3rd Quarter: SYRACUSE – (7:14) Ken Mandeville 1-yard run (Anderson kick); MCNEESE STATE – (4:59) Chad Millet 4-yard run (Don Stump kick)

4th Quarter: SYRACUSE – (13:16) Art Monk 7-yard pass from Bill Hurley (Anderson); (3:57) Hurley 1-yard run (Anderson); (2:06) Tom Matichak 6-yard run (Anderson)

TEAM STATISTICS SYRACUSE MCNEESE STATE

First Downs 23 13

Rushes-Net Yards 73-276 30-127

Net Yards Passing 51 102 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 5-10-0 5-17-3

Total Plays 83 47

Total Net Yards 327 229

Fumbles-Lost 1-0 5-1

Penalties-Yards 2-10 1-3

Punts-Average 4-36.0 3-43.7

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

EAST CAROLINA: Leander Green 17-41, 1 TD; Eddie Hicks 13-23, 1 TD; Anthony Collins 9-18, 2 TD; Theodore Sutton 17-143, 1 TD; Billy Ray Washington 2-34; Wiley 2-0; Mike Hawkins 1-2; Steve Greer 2-28; Marvin Cobb 1-1

LOUISIANA TECH: Keith Thibodeaux 4-(-12); George Yates 12-19; Jessie Clark 6-28; Eric Barkley 7-(-24); Richard Barrios 1-(-7); Joe Mack Johnson 1-3; Bryan Leviston 1-2; Ron Vernasco 1-3 PASSING

EAST CAROLINA: Leander Green 4/13 (30.8%), 54 yards; Anthony Collins 0/1

LOUISIANA TECH: Keith Thibodeaux 6/13, 103 yards; Eric Barkley 12/39 (30.8%), 160 yards, 0 TD, 3 INT RECEIVING

EAST CAROLINA: Terry Gallagher 3-33; Billy Ray Washington 1-21

LOUISIANA TECH: Scooter Spruiell 7-130, 1 TD; Johnny Giordano 3-67; George Yates 2-12; George Pree 1-7; Sammy Willis 1-17; Leviston 1-7; Scott Coates 1-4; Jessie Clark 1-13 PUNTING

EAST CAROLINA: Rodney Allen 6/35.5

LOUISIANA TECH: Jeff Dozier 5/41.6

RUSHING

SYRACUSE: Joe Morris 33-155; Dennis Hartman 18-57; Bill Hurley 9-39, 1 TD; David Warner 6-2; Tom Matichak 2-10, 1 TD; Randy Edsall 2-8; Kenneth Mandeville 3-5, 1 TD

MCNEESE STATE: Artie Shankle 16-85; Oliver Hadnot 5-24; Theron McClendon 4-16; Chad Millet 5-2, 1 TD

PASSING

SYRACUSE: Bill Hurley 5/10 (50%), 51 yards, 1 TD

MCNEESE STATE: Chad Millet 5/17 (29.4%), 102 yards, 0 TD, 3 INT RECEIVING

SYRACUSE: Paul Zambuta 2-27; Anthony Sidor 2-17, 1 TD; Art Monk 1-7, 1 TD

MCNEESE STATE: Harry Price 2-55; Randy Branch 2-33; Carl Bates 1-14

PUNTING

SYRACUSE: John White 4/36.0

MCNEESE STATE: Don Stump 3/43.7

SOUTHERN MISS - 16 MCNEESE STATE - 14

December 13, 1980

Attendance: 42,600

Game-by-Game results

5th – In the final year of the agreement with the Southland Conference, McNeese State made its third and final trip to the Independence Bowl. More than 42,600 people watched a back-and-forth game between the Cowboys and the Golden Eagles of Southern Mississippi. Southern Miss prevailed 16-14, handing the Southland Conference representative its third straight loss. The fifth Indy Bowl was televised by the Mizlou Television Network, which purchased the rights for $20,000.

Coaches: Bobby Collins – Southern Miss; Ernie Duplechin – McNeese State

MVPs: (O) Stephen Starring, McNeese State; (D) Jerald Baylis, Southern Miss Weather: Clear Skies, Dry Field

SCORING

1st Quarter: SOUTHERN MISS – (2:09) Winston Walker 36-yard field goal; (0:13) Clemon Terrell 14-yard run (Walker kick)

2nd Quarter: MCNEESE STATE – (0:44) Buford Jordan 1-yard run (Stump kick)

3rd Quarter: MCNEESE STATE – (7:43) Stephan Starring 4-yard run (Stump)

4th Quarter: SOUTHERN MISS – (1:17) Mike Woodard 1-yard run (kick failed)

TEAM STATISTICS SOUTHERN MISS MCNEESE STATE First Downs 14 14

Rushes-Net Yards 50-181 64-262

Net Yards Passing 69 139 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 8-18-1 6-12-0

Total Plays 68 76

Total Net Yards 250 401

Fumbles-Lost 1-1 4-4

Penalties-Yards 8-75 4-35

Punts-Average 8-44.5 5-37.4

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

SOUTHERN MISS: Reggie Collier 14-63; Sammy Winder 18-48; Clemon Terrell 7-33, 1 TD; Mike Woodard 6-27, 1 TD; Ricky Floyd 5-10

MCNEESE STATE: Stephan Starring 23-82, 1 TD; Theron McClendon 20-97; Buford Jordan 12-50, 1 TD; James Galloway 5-21; Gerald Polaski 4-12 PASSING

SOUTHERN MISS: Reggie Collier 8/17 (47.1%), 69 yards, 0 TD, 1 INT; Ricky Floyd 0/1

MCNEESE STATE: Stephan Starring 6/12 (50%), 139 yards RECEIVING

SOUTHERN MISS: Marvin Harvey 3-24; Don Horn 2-23; Mike Livings 1-17; Ricky Floyd 1-(-3); Louis Lipps 1-8

MCNEESE STATE: Mark Barrouse 2-69; Theron McClendon 2-31; Mike Kyser 1-17; Louis Landry 1-22 PUNTING

SOUTHERN MISS: Bruce Thompson 8/44.5 MCNEESE STATE: Don Stump 5/37.4

TEXAS A&M - 33 OKLAHOMA STATE - 16

December 12, 1981

Attendance: 48,600

6th – In the Independence Bowl’s first year with two “open-ended” bids, the directors were able to put together a classic Big Eight vs. Southwest Conference matchup. The Aggies of Texas A&M knocked off the Cowboys of Oklahoma State 33-16, before a crowd of 48,600 fans.

Coaches: Tom Wilson – Texas A&M; Jimmy Johnson – Oklahoma St. MVPs: (O) Gary Kubiak, Texas A&M; (D) Mike Green, Oklahoma St.

SCORING

1st Quarter: OKLAHOMA STATE – (12:58) Ernest Anderson 1-yard run (Larry Roach kick); TEXAS A&M – (3:19) David Hardy 33-yard field goal; OKLAHOMA STATE – (1:46) Roach 42-yard field goal

2nd Quarter: TEXAS A&M – (6:39) Hardy 32-yard field goal; (2:45) Jimmie Williams 50-yard pass from Gary Kubiak (Hardy kick); (0:43) Williams 38-yard pass from Kubiak (Hardy)

3rd Quarter: TEXAS A&M – (1:15) Hardy 50-yard field goal

4th Quarter: TEXAS A&M – (8:16) Hardy 18-yard field goal; OKLAHOMA STATE – (6:32) Vince Orange 5-yard run (Pass failed); TEXAS A&M – (1:32) Johnny Hector 4-yard run (Hardy)

TEAM STATISTICS OKLAHOMA STATE TEXAS A&M

First Downs 16 23 Rushes-Net Yards 34-70 58-223

Net Yards Passing 187 225 Passing (Comp-Att-Int)

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

OKLAHOMA STATE: Shawn Jones 14-37; Ernest Anderson 5-20, 1 TD; Terry Young 1-14; Vince Orange 5-8, 1 TD; Steve Hammond 1-2; Rusty Hilger 8-(-11)

TEXAS A&M: Earnest Jackson 22-123; Johnny Hector 18-45, 1 TD; Gary Kubiak 11-34; Thomas Sanders 7-21 PASSING

OKLAHOMA STATE: Rusty Hilger 14/35 (40%), 187 yards, 0 TD, 1 INT

TEXAS A&M: Gary Kubiak 15/20 (75%), 225 yards, 2 TD; Johnny Hector 0/1 RECEIVING

OKLAHOMA STATE: Mark Cromer 5-73; Terry Young 4-45; Kerry Franks 2-34; John Chesley 2-18; Ron Ingram 1-12

TEXAS A&M: Jimmie Williams 5-118, 2 TD; Mike Whitwell 3-43; Don Jones 2-24; Johnny Hector 2-10; Mark Lewis 1-17; Thomas Sanders 1-10; Earnest Jackson 1-3 PUNTING

OKLAHOMA STATE: J.T. Neal 6/40.3

TEXAS A&M: Buzzy Sawyer 3/42.0

SCORE BY QUARTERS

Game-by-Game results

WISCONSIN - 14 KANSAS STATE - 3

December 11, 1982

Attendance: 46,244

7th – 1982 was a lean year for scoring, as the Badgers of Wisconsin downed the Kansas State Wildcats, 14-3. The success of the Mizlou television broadcast of the bowl helped the seven-year-old game continue its tremendous growth.

Coaches: Jim Dickey – Kansas State; Dave McClain – Wisconsin MVPs: (O) Randy Wright, Wisconsin; (D) Tim Krumrie, Wisconsin

SCORING

2nd Quarter: KANSAS STATE – (7:10) Steve Willis 29-yard field goal; WISCONSIN – (4:51) Michael Jones 16-yard pass from Randy Wright (Kevin Rohde kick)

3rd Quarter: WISCONSIN – (7:39) Tim Stracka 87-yard pass from Wright (Rohde)

TEAM STATISTICS WISCONSIN KANSAS STATE

First Downs 14 12

Rushes-Net Yards 43-131 33-65 Net Yards Passing 183 127 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 9-24-0 13-35-1

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

WISCONSIN: John Williams 11-57; Gary Ellerson 13-47; Troy King 12-41; Gerald Green 1-4; John Lonchar 1-(-2); Michael Jones 1-(-3); Randy Wright 3-(-8)

KANSAS STATE: Kilisimasi Toluao 10-31; Iosefatu Faraimo 11-25; Darrell Ray Dickey 5-6; Charles Crawford 2-4; Mark Hundley 3-0; Greg Dageforde 2-(-1) PASSING

WISCONSIN: Randy Wright 9/24 (37.5%), 183 yards, 2 TD

KANSAS STATE: Darrell Ray Dickey 13/35 (37.1%), 127 yards, 0 TD, 1 INT RECEIVING

WISCONSIN: David Keeling 4-64; Jeff Nault 2-11; Tim Stracka 1-87, 1 TD; Michael Jones 1-16, 1 TD; Troy King 1-5

KANSAS STATE: Greg Dageforde 4-30; Mike Wallace 3-51; Kilisimasi Toluao 3-26; Iosefatu Faraimo 1-17; Mike Cox 1-2; Toney Brown 1-1

PUNTING

WISCONSIN: George Winslow 6/40.7

KANSAS STATE: Scott Fulhage 8/36.8

AIR FORCE - 9 OLE MISS - 3

December 10, 1983

Attendance: 41,274

8th – Despite a torrential downpour throughout the game, the Independence Bowl rebounded well with a matchup of Ole Miss and Air Force. In front of a large group of Ole Miss supporters, the Rebels fell to the Falcons 9-3.

Coaches: Ken Hatfield – Air Force; Billy Brewer – Ole Miss MVPs: (O) Marty Louthan, Air Force; (D) Andre Townsend, Ole Miss Weather: Wet, Rainy

SCORING

1st Quarter: AIR FORCE – (7:37) Sean Pavlich 44-yard field goal

2nd Quarter: AIR FORCE – (7:39) Pavlich 39-yard field goal; OLE MISS – (0:09) Neil Teevan 39-yard field goal

3rd Quarter: AIR FORCE – Pavlich 27-yard field goal

TEAM STATISTICS AIR FORCE OLE MISS

First Downs 18 11 Rushes-Net Yards 63-277 32-106 Net Yards Passing 71 138 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 6-7-0 11-27-2

Net Yards 348 244 Fumbles-Lost 3-3 1-0

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

AIR FORCE: Mike Brown 12-91; Marty Louthan 25-67; John Kershner 15-58; Ted Sundquist 4-21; Jody Simmons 2-18; Randy Jones 4-12; Bart Weiss 1-10

OLE MISS: Buford McGee 22-111; Arthur Humphrey 6-15; Kent Austin 1-(-5); Kelly Powell 3-(-15) PASSING

AIR FORCE: Marty Louthan 6/7 (85.7%), 71 yards

OLE MISS: Kelly Powell 11/27 (40.7%), 138 yards, 0 TD, 2 TD

RECEIVING

AIR FORCE: Mike Kirby 3-49; Jerry Rose 2-28; Mike Brown 1-(-6)

OLE MISS: Timmy Moffett 6-96; Jamie Holder 3-27; Stephen Cunningham 1-9; Buford McGee 1-6-0 PUNTING

AIR FORCE: Jeff Kubiak 3/30.3

OLE MISS: Bill Smith 5/43.6

Game-by-Game results

AIR FORCE - 23

VIRGINIA TECH - 7

December 15, 1984

Attendance: 45,034

9th – For the second time in the bowl’s brief history a school made back-to-back appearances. The Air Force Falcons fell behind Virginia Tech early, but put together a 13-point fourth quarter to make it the only school to win consecutive Independence Bowls.

Coaches: Fisher DeBerry – Air Force; Bill Dooley – Virginia Tech MVPs: (O) Bart Weiss, Air Force; (D) Scott Thomas, Air Force

SCORING

1st Quarter: AIR FORCE – (6:05) Carlos Mateos 35-yard field goal; VIRGINIA TECH – (1:42) Maurice Williams 3-yard run (Don Wade kick)

2nd Quarter: AIR FORCE – (8:50) Jody Simmons 3-yard run (Mateos kick)

3rd Quarter: AIR FORCE – (6:00) Mike Brown 2-yard run (Mateos)

4th Quarter: AIR FORCE – (2:08) Bart Weiss 13-yard run (kick failed)

TEAM STATISTICS VIRGINIA TECH AIR FORCE

First Downs 17 15

Rushes-Net Yards 42-207 55-221

Net Yards Passing 102 49 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 11-26-2 6-7-0

Total Net Yards 309 270

Fumbles-Lost 2-2 2-0

Penalties-Yards 11-112 4-30

Punts-Average 4-40.0 6-42.5

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

VIRGINIA TECH: Eddie Hunter 12-75; Maurice Williams 12-62, 1 TD; Mark Cox 10-42; Nigel Bowe 4-23; Desmar Becton 3-18; Todd Greenwood 1-0

AIR FORCE: Bart Weiss 29-93, 1 TD; Pat Evans 15-58; Jody Simmons 5-27, 1 TD; Kelly Pittman 1-24; Mike Brown 3-3, 1 TD PASSING

VIRGINIA TECH: Mark Cox 6/17 (35.3%), 50 yards, 1 INT; Todd Greenwood 5/8 (62.5%), 52 yards; Eddie Hunter 0/1, 0 yards, 1 INT

AIR FORCE: Bart Weiss 6/7 (85.7%), 49 yards RECEIVING

VIRGINIA TECH: Scott Rider 4-45; Clarence Nelson 3-24; Joe Jones 2-21; Terrence Howell 1-7; Nigel Bowe 1-5

AIR FORCE: Tom Coleman 1-16; Kevin Fleming 1-14; Hugh Brennan 1-9; Jody Simmons 2-7; Mike Brown 1-3 PUNTING

VIRGINIA TECH: David Cox 4/40.0

AIR FORCE: Mark Simon 6/42.5

MINNESOTA - 20 CLEMSON - 13

December 21, 1985

Attendance: 42,845

10th – The Big-Ten conference would pick up its second win in as many tries as the Minnesota Golden Gophers scored late in the fourth quarter to edge the Clemson Tigers 20-13. This was also the first year of a new three-year contract between the Independence Bowl and the Mizlou network.

Coaches: Danny Ford – Clemson; John Gutekunst – Minnesota

MVPs: (O) Rickey Foggie, Minnesota; (D) Bruce Holmes, Minnesota

SCORING

1st Quarter: MINNESOTA – (9:02) Chip Lohmiller 22-yard field goal

2nd Quarter: MINNESOTA – (13:28) Melvin Anderson 9-yard pass from Rickey Foggie (Lohmiller kick); CLEMSON – (9:48) David Treadwell 39-yard field goal; (0:14) Treadwell 21-yard field goal

3rd Quarter: CLEMSON – (7:25) Keith Jennings 3-yard pass from Stacey Driver (Treadwell kick)

4th Quarter: MINNESOTA – (10:45) Lohmiller 19-yard field goal; (4:56) Valdez Baylor 1-yard run (Lohmiller)

TEAM STATISTICS

MINNESOTA CLEMSON

First Downs 19 18 Rushes-Net Yards 55-257 48-211

Net Yards Passing 123 162 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 9-21-0 10-29-1

INDIVIDUAL

STATISTICS

RUSHING

MINNESOTA: Valdez Baylor 13-98, 1 TD; Rickey Foggie 18-60; David Puk 15-69; Ed Penn 6-24; Kevin Wilson 3-6

CLEMSON: Kenny Flowers 27-148; Stacey Driver 13-37; Rodney Williams 5-12; Randy Anderson 1-7; Terrance Roulhac 1-2; Tracy Johnson 1-5

PASSING

MINNESOTA: Rickey Foggie 9/12 (75%), 123 yards

CLEMSON: Rodney Williams 9/24 (37.5%), 159 yards, 1 INT; Randy Anderson 0/2; Stacey Driver 1/2 (50%), 3 yards, 1 TD; Ray Williams 0/1

RECEIVING

MINNESOTA: Melvin Anderson 4-34, 1 TD; Gary Couch 2-41; Craig Otto 2-31; Andy Hare 1-17

CLEMSON: Ray Williams 5-58; Terrance Roulhac 2-63; Keith Jennings 3-41, 1 TD PUNTING

MINNESOTA: Adam Kelly 6/37.5

CLEMSON: Andy Newell 4/41.5

BY QUARTERS

Game-by-Game results

OLE MISS - 20 TEXAS TECH -

17

December 20, 1986

Attendance: 46,369

11th – The Ole Miss Rebels and Texas Tech

Red Raiders squared off in Independence Bowl XI. About 20,000 fans traveled to Shreveport to help set an Independence Bowl attendance record of 46,369. Ole Miss evened up their Independence Bowl record at 1-1 with a 2017 victory over the Red Raiders.

Coaches: Billy Brewer – Ole Miss; Spike Dykes – Texas Tech

MVPs: (O) Mark Young, Ole Miss; (D) James Mosley, Texas Tech

Weather: Partly Cloudy, Dry field

WASHINGTON - 24 TULANE - 12

December 19, 1987

Attendance: 44,683

12th – Representing the Pacific-10 conference, the Washington Huskies made their 10th bowl appearance in the last 11 years, against the Tulane Green Wave. Washington jumped out to an early 21-10 lead and coasted to a 24-12 win. In 1987, the total viewing audience for the bowl reached more than 15 million, not including the service personnel who viewed the game throughout the world.

Coaches: Mack Brown – Tulane; Don James – Washington

MVPs: (O) Chris Chandler, Washington; (D) David Rill, Washington

Weather: Partly Cloudy

SCORING

1st Quarter: OLE MISS – (8:21) Willie Goodloe 1-yard run (Bryan Owen kick)

2nd Quarter: OLE MISS – (14:57) Joe Mickles 9-yard run (Owen); TEXAS TECH – (7:47) James Gray 1-yard run (Scott Segrist kick); OLE MISS – (0:01) Owen 21-yard field goal

3rd Quarter: TEXAS TECH – (11:16) Merv Scurlark 33-yard interception return (Segrist)

4th Quarter: TEXAS TECH – (14:52) Segrist 19-yard field goal; OLE MISS – (12:16) Owen 48-yard field goal

TEAM STATISTICS

OLE MISS TEXAS TECH

First Downs 26 18

Rushes-Net Yards 38-60 36-175

Net Yards Passing 343 181 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 31-50-1 17-40-1

Total Plays 88 76

Total Net Yards 403 356 Fumbles-Lost

Penalties-Yards 5-33

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

OLE MISS: Joe Mickles 10-53, 1 TD; Shawn Sykes 7-16; Mark Young 12-(-29); Tony Dentley 3-10; Willie Goodloe 5-8, 1 TD; J.R. Ambrose 1-2

TEXAS TECH: Ervin Farris 17-99; Isaac Garnett 8-36; James Gray 6-25, 1 TD; Wayne Walker 1-12; Billy Joe Tolliver 2-(-6); Eddy Anderson 1-8; Tyrone Thurman 1-1 PASSING

OLE MISS: Mark Young 31/50 (62%), 343 yards, 0 TD, 1 INT

TEXAS TECH: Billy Joe Tolliver 17/40 (42.5%), 181 yards, 0 TD, 1 INT RECEIVING

OLE MISS: J.R. Ambrose 8-102; Ricky Myers 4-69; Mario Perry 5-47; Joe Mickles 5-42; Willie Goodloe 4-37; Bobby Martin 1-21; Shawn Sykes 4-25

TEXAS TECH: Travis Price 9-74; Wayne Walker 3-71; James Gray 2-17; Tyrone Thurman 2-9; Eddy Anderson 1-10 PUNTING

OLE MISS: Bill Smith 6/45.5

TEXAS TECH: Chris Burns 8/41.5

SCORING

1st Quarter: WASHINGTON – (7:43) Tony Covington 3-yard run (Brandy Brownlee kick)

2nd Quarter: TULANE – (8:56) Mitchell Price 44-yard punt return (Todd Wiggins kick); WASHINGTON – (5:26) Bill Ames 5-yard pass from Chris Chandler (Brownlee); TULANE – (3:18) Wiggins 21-yard field goal; WASHINGTON – (1:09) Darryl Franklin 5-yard pass from Chandler (Brownlee)

4th Quarter: WASHINGTON – (13:54) Channing Wyles 41-yard field goal; TULANE – (0:07) Safety (Conklin kneels in end zone)

TEAM STATISTICS TULANE WASHINGTON

First Downs 21 22

Rushes-Net Yards 33-131 39-147

Net Yards Passing 248 249

Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 17-40-1 16-32-3

Total Plays 73 71

Total Net Yards 379 396

Fumbles-Lost 2-1 1-0

Penalties-Yards

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

TULANE: Terrence Jones 18-91; Marvin Allen 4-26; Michael Pierce 5-13; Melvin Adams 3-13; Rodney Hunter 2-5; James Toney 1-(-17)

WASHINGTON: Vince Weathersby 14-84; Aaron Jenkins 11-44; Chris Chandler 5-23; Tony Covington 4-12, 1 TD; Cary Conklin 2-(-3); Greg Lewis 2-(-3); Darryl Franklin 1-(-10)

PASSING

TULANE: Terrence Jones 17/40 (42.5%), 248 yards, 0 TD, 1 INT

WASHINGTON: Chris Chandler 15/30 (50%), 234 yards, 2 TD, 3 INT; Cary Conklin 1/2 (50%), 15 yards

RECEIVING

TULANE: Marc Zeno 7-116; Michael Pierce 2-56; Marvin Allen 1-18; Jerome McIntosh 3-17; Rodney Hunter 2-11; Melvin Adams 1-11

WASHINGTON: Vince Weathersby 5-64; Darryl Franklin 4-61, 1 TD; Brian Slater 2-59; Bill Ames 3-35, 1 TD; Aaron Jenkins 1-15; Greg Lewis 1-15

PUNTING

TULANE: Deron Smith 6/43.7

WASHINGTON: Eric Canton 4/32.8

SCORE BY QUARTERS

Game-by-Game results

SOUTHERN MISS - 38 UTEP - 18

December 23, 1988

Attendance: 20,242 13th – The University of Southern Mississippi made its second trip from Hattiesburg, Miss., to Shreveport where they faced the University of Texas at El Paso. Southern Miss fell behind early in the first quarter but put together a 21-point third-quarter to pull away from the Miners for a 38-18 victory.

Coaches: Curley Hallman – Southern Miss; Bob Stull – UTEP

MVPs: (O&D) James Henry, Southern Miss Weather: Dry, Overcast

OREGON - 27 TULSA - 24

December 16, 1989

Attendance: 44,621

14th – The University of Tulsa, which lost to McNeese State in the inaugural Independence Bowl, made its return appearance to Shreveport to play the Oregon Ducks. The Golden Hurricane, who led 24-17 going into the fourth quarter was unable to negotiate a potent Oregon defense, allowing the Ducks to pick up a 27-24 win.

Coaches: Rich Brooks – Oregon; Dave Rader – Tulsa

MVPs: (O) Bill Musgrave, Oregon; (D) Chris Oldham, Oregon

Weather: Partly Cloudy, Cold

SCORING

1st Quarter: UTEP – (8:27) Reggie Barrett 30-yard pass from Pat Hegarty (Chris Jacke kick); SOUTHERN MISS – (3:53) Chris Seroka 26-yard field goal

2nd Quarter: SOUTHERN MISS – (0:19) Reginald Warnsley 3-yard pass from Brett Favre (Seroka kick)

3rd Quarter: SOUTHERN MISS – (13:29) James Henry 65-yard punt return (Seroka); (9:52) Shelton Gandy 1-yard run (Seroka); (5:38) Henry 45-yard punt return (Seroka); UTEP – (1:37) Jacke 37-yard field goal

4th Quarter: SOUTHERN MISS – (11:46) Gandy 7-yard run (Seroka); UTEP – (8:50) Willie Fuller 20-yard pass from David Flores (Fuller from Flores)

TEAM STATISTICS UTEP SOUTHERN MISS

First Downs 19 17

Rushes-Net Yards 38-53 41-168

Net Yards Passing 308 157 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 23-44-0 15-26-2

Total Plays 82 67

Total Net Yards 361 325 Fumbles-Lost 3-0 2-0

Penalties-Yards 10-95 5-45

Punts-Average 6-39.2 6-32.2

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

UTEP: Willie Fuller 9-31; Pat Hegarty 11-(-10); Eddie Dixon 8-26; Scooter Menifee 5-13-0; David Flores 2-3; RandyForrest 1-1; Ricki Lopez 1-(-1)

SOUTHERN MISS: Shelton Gandy 22-134, 2 TD; Ricky Bradley 9-29; Brett Favre 7-(-3); Reginald Warnsley 3-8 PASSING

UTEP: Pat Hegarty 14/27 (51.9%), 203 yards, 1 TD; David Flores 9/17, 105 yards, 1 TD

SOUTHERN MISS: Brett Favre 15/26 (57.7%), 157 yards, 1 TD, 2 INT RECEIVING

UTEP: Reggie Barrett 9-119, 1 TD; Arnie Adkison 4-55; Rob Housler 3-49; Willie Fuller 3-27, 1 TD; Ricki Lopez 2-33; Eddie Dixon 1-6; Victor Bailey 1-19

SOUTHERN MISS: Darryl Tillman 2-44; Alfred Williams 2-28; Eddie Ray Jackson 3-15; Robbie Weeks 2-15; Reginald Warnsley 2-11, 1 TD; Eugene Rowell 1-24; Shelton Gandy 2-10; Preston Hansford 1-10 PUNTING

UTEP: Lance Brownlee 6/39.2

SOUTHERN MISS: Scott Bryant 6/32.2

SCORING

1st Quarter: TULSA – (7:44) Brett Adams 1-yard run (David Fuess kick); OREGON – (1:25) Gregg McCallum 29-yard field goal

2nd Quarter: OREGON – (6:56) Tony Hargain 20-yard pass from Bill Musgrave (McCallum kick), TULSA – (2:15) Fuess 26-yard field goal; (0:22) Derrick Williams 21-yard blocked punt return (Fuess)

3rd Quarter: TULSA – (4:27) Adams 1-yard run (Fuess); OREGON –(2:05) Joe Reitzug 9-yard pass from Musgrave (McCallum) 4th Quarter: OREGON – (12:38) Musgrave 1-yard run (McCallum); (3:07) McCallum 20-yard field goal

TEAM STATISTICS TULSA OREGON First Downs 14 16

Rushes-Net Yards 36-70 36-140

Net Yards Passing 183 320 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 17-34-2 23-40-2

Total Plays 70 59

Total Net Yards 253 460 Fumbles-Lost 3-1 2-1

Penalties-Yards 1-15 5-49 Punts-Average 5-34.8 3-23.5

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

OREGON: Derek Loville 20-82; Terry Obee 2-34; Latin Berry 8-22; Bill Musgrave 4-(-6), 1 TD; Dondre Bausley 2-8

TULSA: Brett Adams 26-72, 2 TD; Mark Brus 5-8; T.J. Rubley 5-(-10) PASSING

OREGON: Bill Musgrave 22/39 (56.4%), 320 yards, 2 TD, 2 INT; Obee 0/1

TULSA: T.J. Rubley 17/34 (50%), 183 yards, 0 TD, 2 INT RECEIVING

OREGON: Tony Hargain 5-100, 1 TD; Joe Reitzug 6-121, 1 TD; Terry Obee 3-33; Latin Berry 4-27; Derek Loville 3-22; Joe Meerten 2-17

TULSA: Gary Treat 3-50; Marcus McVey 4-47; Archie Malloy 4-42; Brett Adams 2-29; Bill Buehner 3-7; Brian Thompson 1-8

PUNTING

OREGON: Marc Penso 2/23.5

TULSA: Danny Phelps 5/34.8

MARYLAND - 34

LOUISIANA TECH - 34

December 15, 1990

Attendance: 48,325

Game-by-Game results

15th – Poulan/Weed Eater came on board as the first title sponsor of the Independence Bowl in 1990. That game proved to be a boon for both Poulan/ Weed Eater and the Shreveport-Bossier area as Louisiana Tech and Maryland squared off in front of the largest crowd in Independence Bowl history. The crowd of 48,325 witnessed the Bulldogs and the Terrapins battled to a 34-34 tie.

Coaches: J. R. Peace – Louisiana Tech; Joe Krivak – Maryland

MVPs: (O) Michael Richardson, La. Tech; (D) Lorenza Baker, La. Tech

Weather: Partly Cloudy

GEORGIA - 24 ARKANSAS - 15

December 29, 1991

Attendance: 46,932

16th – Poulan/Weed Eater Independence Bowl XVI saw the first appearance by a Southeastern Conference school in five years. The University of Georgia matched up against the University of Arkansas, which was playing its final game as part of the Southwest Conference, before leaving for the SEC. The Bulldogs scored 14 points in the first quarter and walked away with a 24-15 win. The game marked the second consecutive year that the bowl’s attendance went over the 46,000 mark.

Coaches: Jack Crowe – Arkansas; Ray Goff – Georgia

MVPs: (O) Andre Hastings, Georgia; (D) Torrey Evans, Georgia

Weather: Cloudy, Overcast

SCORING

1st Quarter: MARYLAND – (11:59) Troy Jackson 1-yard run (Dan DeArmas kick); (5:06) Jackson 2-yard run (DeArmas)

2nd Quarter: LOUISIANA TECH – (8:30) Michael Richardson 5-yard run (Chris Boniol kick); (0:17) Jason Davis 3-yard run (Boniol)

3rd Quarter: LOUISIANA TECH – (10:35) Richardson 1-yard run (Boniol); MARYLAND – (7:44) Jackson 11-yard run (kick missed); LOUISIANA TECH – (5:52) Bobby Slaughter 7-yard pass from Gene Johnson (Boniol)

4th Quarter: LOUISIANA TECH – (13:52) Boniol 36-yard field goal; MARYLAND – (11:20) Mark Mason 28-yard pass from Scott Zolak (DeArmas); (0:52) Barry Johnson 15-yard pass from Zolak (DeArmas); LOUISIANA TECH – (0:00) Boniol 29-yard field goal

TEAM STATISTICS LOUISIANA TECH MARYLAND

First Downs 16 25

Rushes-Net Yards 47-191 39-150

Net Yards Passing 115 254 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 11-18-1 18-29-3

Total Plays 65 68

Total Net Yards 306 404

Fumbles-Lost 1-1 3-1

Penalties-Yards 9-88 6-53

Punts-Average 4-37.2 1-34.0

RUSHING

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

LOUISIANA TECH: Michael Richardson 27-81, 2 TD; Jason Davis 12-72, 1 TD; Sam Hughes 4-26; Gene Johnson 4-12

MARYLAND: Troy Jackson 17-50, 3 TD; Mark Mason 15-93; Scott Zolak 5-(-1); Darren Colvin 2-8

PASSING

LOUISIANA TECH: Gene Johnson 7/8 (87.5%), 70 yards, 1 TD; Sam Hughes 4/9 (44.4%), 45 yards; Bobby Slaughter 0/1

MARYLAND: Scott Zolak 17/28 (60.7%), 215 yards, 2 TD, 3 INT; Troy Jackson 1/1, 39 yards

RECEIVING

LOUISIANA TECH: Bobby Slaughter 5-66, 1 TD; Eddie Brown 2-20; Michael Richardson 2-18; Ronnie Cook 1-9; Jason Davis 1-2

MARYLAND: Barry Johnson 5-107, 1 TD; Frank Wychek 5-46; Mark Mason 3-47, 1 TD; Bret Boehly 1-25; Vance Phillips 2-12; Troy Jackson 2-17

PUNTING

LOUISIANA TECH: Brad Boozer 4/37.3

MARYLAND: Dan DeArmas 1/34.0 SCORE BY QUARTERS 1ST 2ND 3RD

SCORING

1st Quarter: GEORGIA – (5:40) Arthur Marshall 7-yard pass from Eric Zeier (Todd Peterson kick); (3:01) Andre Hastings 27-yard pass from Zeier (Peterson)

2nd Quarter: GEORGIA – (8:31) Kanon Parkman 39-yard field goal; ARKANSAS – (0:35) E.D. Jackson 7-yard run (Todd Wright kick) 3rd Quarter: GEORGIA – (12:07) Hastings 53-yard run (Peterson) 4th Quarter: ARKANSAS – (1:19) Jackson 1-yard run (Jackson run)

TEAM STATISTICS ARKANSAS GEORGIA

First Downs 22 15

Rushes-Net Yards 51-188 30-125

Net Yards Passing 122 237

Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 12-31-5 20-31-0

Total Plays 82 61 Total Net Yards 310

Fumbles-Lost 1-1 1-0 Penalties-Yards 7-43 10-75 Punts-Average 4-45.3 6-32.3

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

ARKANSAS: E.D. Jackson 28-112, 2 TD; Tony Jeffrey 9-44; Freddie Bradley 5-20; Kerwin Price 3-9; Wade Hill 4-8; Tracy Caldwell 2-(-5)

GEORGIA: Andre Hastings 1-53, 1 TD; Mack Strong 8-36; Garrison Hearst 9-21; Larry Ware 7-6; Frank Harvey 2-6; Earl Fouch 1-3; Eric Zeier 2-0

PASSING

ARKANSAS: Wade Hill 12/31 (38.7%), 122 yards, 0 TD, 5 INT

GEORGIA: Eric Zeier 18/28 (64.3%), 228, 2 TD; Greg Talley 2/3, 9 yards

RECEIVING

ARKANSAS: Lee Keith 3-38; Kirk Botkin 4-26; Tracy Caldwell 1-20; Eric Browning 2-23; Ron Dickerson Jr. 1-10; Freddie Bradley 1-5

GEORGIA: Andre Hastings 4-94, 1 TD; Garrison Hearst 2-24; Kevin Maxwell 2-21; Shannon Mitchell 3-24; Frank Harvey 2-20; Jeff Thomas 2-19; Mack Strong 1-14; Paul Etheridge 1-11; Arthur Marshall 2-13, 1 TD; Larry Ware 1-(-3)

PUNTING

ARKANSAS: Pete Raether 4/45.3

GEORGIA: Stuart Saussy 6/32.3

Game-by-Game results

WAKE FOREST - 39 OREGON - 35

December 31, 1992

Attendance: 31,337

17th – Wake Forest fought back from a 22-10 halftime deficit behind a strong passing attack to defeat Oregon 39-35 in Independence Bowl XVII. The loss was the first by a Pac 10 team in bowl history.

Coaches: Rich Brooks – Oregon; Bill Dooley – Wake Forest MVPs: (O) Todd Dixon, Wake Forest; (D) Herman O’Berry, Oregon Weather: Cloudy, Light fog

Wake Forest 7 3 14 15 39 Oregon 13 9 7 6 35

SCORING

1st Quarter: WAKE FOREST – (12:33) John Leach 1-yard run (Mike Green kick); OREGON – (9:21) Sean Burwell 40-yard run (Tommy Thompson kick); (1:08) Herman O’Berry 24-yard fumble recovery (kick missed)

2nd Quarter: WAKE FOREST – (11:01) Green 38-yard field goal; OREGON – (4:03) Vince Ferry 4-yard pass from Danny O’Neil (kick blocked); (0:47) Thompson 48-yard field goal

3rd Quarter: OREGON – (4:44) Alex Molden 8-yard interception return (Thompson); WAKE FOREST – (3:54) Ned Moultrie 1-yard run (Green); (0:45) Todd Dixon 30-yard pass from Keith West (Green) 4th Quarter: WAKE FOREST – (12:02) Dixon 61-yard pass from Bobby Jones (John Leach pass from West); (5:19) Leach 6-yard run (Green); OREGON – (1:05) Ronnie Harris 10-yard pass from O’Neil (kick missed)

TEAM STATISTICS WAKE FOREST OREGON

First Downs 18 23

Rushes-Net Yards 49-193 32-112

Net Yards Passing 323 227

Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 16-29-3 24-40-1

Total Plays 78 72

Total Net Yards 516 339

Fumbles-Lost 3-3 0-0

Penalties-Yards 11-108 6-55

Punts-Average 4-39.5 7-35.9

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

WAKE FOREST: John Leach 21-116, 2 TD; Ned Moultrie 11-60, 1 TD; Wendell Wells 7-36; Travis Johns 1-10; Keith West 9-(-29)

OREGON: Sean Burwell 11-48, 1 TD; Ricky Whittle 7-27; Juan Shedrick 6-23; Danny O’Neil 6-12; Donovan Moore 1-4; Derrick Deadwiler 1-(-2) PASSING

WAKE FOREST: Keith West 15/27 (55.6%), 262 yards, 1 TD, 3 INT; Bobby Jones 1/1, 61 yards, 1 TD; John Leach 0/1

OREGON: Danny O’Neil 24/40 (60%), 227 yards, 2 TD, 1 INT RECEIVING

WAKE FOREST: Todd Dixon 5-166, 2 TD; John Henry Mills 4-83; Bobby Jones 2-45; John Leach 2-12; Travis Johns 1-8; Ned Moultrie 1-5; Marlon Estes 1-4

OREGON: Ronnie Harris 6-74, 1 TD; Sean Burwell 5-39; Anthony Jones 4-56; Vince Ferry 3-25, 1 TD; Ricky Whittle 3-3; Cristin McLemore 1-14; Juan Shedrick 1-13; Derrick Deadwiler 1-3-0 PUNTING

WAKE FOREST: Mike Green 4/39.5

OREGON: Tommy Thompson 7/35.9

VIRGINIA TECH - 45 INDIANA - 20

December 31, 1993

Attendance: 33,819

18th – Virginia Tech finally left Shreveport with what they came for: a 45-20 win over Big-Ten opponent Indiana University. The Hokies used a 21-point second quarter and a 17-point fourth quarter to bury the Hoosier’s hopes of a bowl victory.

Coaches: Frank Beamer – Virginia Tech; Bill Mallory – Indiana

MVPs: (O) Maurice DeShazo, Va. Tech; (D) Antonio Banks, Va. Tech

Weather: Clear

SCORING

1st Quarter: INDIANA – (5:36) Thomas Lewis 75-yard pass from John Paci (Bill Manolopoulos kick); VIRGINIA TECH – (0:09) Dwayne Thomas 13-yard pass from Maurice DeShazo (Ryan Williams kick) 2nd Quarter: VIRGINIA TECH – (11:14) Joe Swarm 6-yard run (Williams); INDIANA – (8:47) Manolopoulos 26-yard field goal; (5:25) Manolopoulos 40-yard field goal; VIRGINIA TECH – (0:23) Lawrence Lewis 20-yard fumble return (Williams); (0:00) Antonio Banks 80-yard blocked field goal return (Williams)

4th Quarter: VIRGINIA TECH – (9:37) Antonio Freeman 42-yard pass from DeShazo (Williams); (9:21) Tommy Edwards 5-yard run (Williams); (6:00) Williams 42-yard field goal; INDIANA – (4:26) Lewis 42-yard pass from Chris Dittoe (Manolopoulos)

TEAM STATISTICS INDIANA VIRGINIA TECH

First Downs 11 17

Rushes-Net Yards 31-20 48-125

Net Yards Passing 276 193 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 17-37-2 19-33-2

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

INDIANA: Jermaine Chaney 11-34; Alfonzo Thurman 1-37; Michael Batts 3-10; Sean Glover 3-6; Shane Thomas 1-(-4); John Paci 5-(26); Chris Dittoe 7-(-37)

VIRGINIA TECH: Dwayne Thomas 24-65; Joe Swarm 9-40, 1 TD; Tommy Edwards 5-15, 1 TD; Cornelius White 4-3; Maurice DeShazo 5-1; Jim Druckenmiller 1-1

PASSING

INDIANA: John Paci 10/22 (45.5%), 171 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT; Chris Dittoe 7/14 (50%), 105 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT; Jim DeGuilio 0/1

VIRGINIA TECH: Maurice DeShazo 19/33 (57.6%), 193 yards, 2 TD, 2 INT

RECEIVING

INDIANA: Thomas Lewis 6-177, 2 TD; Ross Hales 2-49; Eric Matthews 2-35; Sean Glover 2-1; Eddie Baety 1-9; Greg Hobbs 1-4; Bill Eggebrecht 1-2; Jermaine Chaney 2-(-1)

VIRGINIA TECH: Antonio Freeman 5-66, 1 TD; Dwayne Thomas 4-27, 1 TD; Cornelius White 2-35; John Burke 3-26; Steve Sanders 2-15; Joe Swarm 1-13; Brian Edmonds 1-6; Bryan Still 1-5 PUNTING

INDIANA: Jim DiGuilio 6/38.7; Rutledge 1/37.0

VIRGINIA TECH: Colley 8/34.1

SCORE BY QUARTERS

Game-by-Game results

VIRGINIA - 20 TCU - 10

December 28, 1994

Attendance: 36,192

19th – The University of Virginia, in its first appearance in the Poulan/Weed Eater Independence Bowl, overpowered Texas Christian University both offensively and defensively to ground out a 20-10 victory in Independence Stadium. The appearance by TCU was the last appearance of any Southwest Conference team in a post-season bowl game. The Southwest Conference finished its Independence Bowl history with a 1-3 record.

Coaches: Pat Sullivan – TCU; George Welsh – Virginia

MVPs: (O) Mike Groh, Virginia; (D) Mike Frederick, Virginia

Weather: Cloudy, Rain

SCORING

2nd Quarter: VIRGINIA – (10:20) Rafael Garcia 20-yard field goal; (2:46) Charles Way 6-yard run (Garcia kick); TCU – (0:00) Michael Reeder 43-yard field goal

3rd Quarter: VIRGINIA – (9:08) Andre Davis 37-yard pass from Mike Groh (Garcia kick); (3:56) Garcia 32-yard field goal

4th Quarter: TCU – (13:28) Brian Collins 1-yard pass from Max Knake (Reeder kick)

TEAM STATISTICS

VIRGINIA TCU

First Downs 20 11

Rushes-Net Yards 52-237 32-126

Net Yards Passing 199 65 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 14-23-2 8-24-1

Total Plays 75 56

Total Net Yards 436 191

Fumbles-Lost 1-0 2-1

Penalties-Yards 9-66 6-39

Punts-Average 4-38.5 8-37.3

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

VIRGINIA: Kevin Brooks 17-114; Charles Way 24-90, 1 TD; Tiki Barber 3-18; Mike Groh 8-15

TCU: Andre Davis 24-97; Max Knake 4-17; Koi Woods 3-9; Jimmy Oliver 1-3 PASSING

VIRGINIA: Mike Groh 14/23 (60.9%), 199 yards, 1 TD, 2 INT

TCU: Max Knake 8/24 (33.3%), 65 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT RECEIVING

VIRGINIA: Bobby Neely 3-55; Tiki Barber 3-2; Patrick Jeffers 3-60; Demetrius Allen 2-32; Tyrone Davis 1-37, 1 TD; Kevin Brooks 1-4; Derick Byrd 1-9

TCU: Chris Brasfield 2-11; Andre Davis 2-7; Brian Collins 2-14, 1 TD; Jimmy Oliver 1-22; John Washington 1-11 PUNTING

VIRGINIA: Will Brice 4/38.5

TCU: Beau Stephens 8/37.3

LSU - 45 MICHIGAN STATE - 26

December 29, 1995

Attendance: 48,835

20th – The Independence Bowl realized a dream come true as the Tigers of LSU invaded Shreveport to take on the Michigan State Spartans. With the first sellout in bowl history, 48,835 fans watched as 21 points were scored in 26 seconds of play during the first half. The Tigers came away with the win by a score of 45-26 and Shreveport/Bossier City, along with the LSU Tigers, had somehow bridged the gap between the northern and southern parts of Louisiana.

Coaches: Gerry DiNardo – LSU; Nick Saban – Michigan State MVPs: (O) Kevin Faulk, LSU; (D) Gabe Northern, LSU Weather: Partly Sunny

SCORING

1st Quarter: MICHIGAN STATE – (14:13) Muhsin Muhammed 78-yard pass from Tony Banks (Chris Gardner kick); LSU – (12:07) Kendall Cleveland 6-yard run (Andre LaFleur kick)

2nd Quarter: MICHIGAN STATE – (14:44) Scott Greene 3-yard run (Gardner kick blocked); LSU – (14:30) Eddie Kennison 92-yard kick return (LaFleur); MICHIGAN STATE – (14:17) Derrick Mason 100yard kick return (Greene run); LSU – (13:11) Kevin Faulk 51-yard run (LaFleur); MICHIGAN STATE – (0:01) Gardner 37-yard field goal

3rd Quarter: LSU – (14:29) Faulk 5-yard run (LaFleur); (9:20) Gabe Northern 37-yard fumble return (LaFleur); (7:13) Kennison 27-yard pass from Herbert Tyler (LaFleur) 4th Quarter: LSU – (8:45) Wade Richey 48-yard field goal; MICHIGAN STATE – (5:57) Safety

TEAM STATISTICS LSU MICHIGAN STATE

First Downs 17 23

Rushes-Net Yards 48-272 35-100

Net Yards Passing 164 348 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 10-20-1 22-44-3

Total Plays 68 79

Total Net Yards 436 448 Fumbles-Lost 2-1 4-3

Penalties-Yards 5-42 9-80

Punts-Average 4-44.5 6-37.5

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

LSU: Kevin Faulk 25-234, 2 TD; Kendall Cleveland 13-23, 1 TD; Robert Toomer 4-13; Eddie Kennison 1-6; Herbert Tyler 4-(-1); Chad Kessler 1-(-3)

MICHIGAN STATE: Marc Renaud 16-79; Scott Greene 8-48, 1 TD; Tyrone Crenshaw 1-1; Tony Banks 10-(-28)

PASSING

LSU: Herbert Tyler 10/20 (50%), 164 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT

MICHIGAN STATE: Tony Banks 22/44 (50%), 348 yards, 1 TD, 3 INT

RECEIVING

LSU: Eddie Kennison 5-124, 1 TD; David LaFleur 2-31; Robert Toomer 1-9; Kendall Cleveland 1-(-4); Kevin Faulk 1-4

MICHIGAN STATE: Muhsin Muhammed 9-171, 1 TD; Derrick Mason 6-74; Marc Renaud 2-47; Nigea Carter 2-16; Napoleon Outlaw 2-24; Josh Keur 1-16

PUNTING

LSU: Chad Kessler 4/44.5

MICHIGAN STATE: Chris Salani 6/37.5

Game-by-Game results

AUBURN - 32 ARMY - 29

December 31, 1996

Attendance: 41,366

21st – The Independence Bowl received national attention in its 21st year, as the Cadets of Army competed against traditional football power Auburn. This matchup looked as though it would be a lopsided victory for the Tigers, but Army mounted a huge comeback effort, scoring 22 points in the fourth to close the gap to 32-29, before a crowd of 41,366. In the final seconds of the game, Army put Jay Parker to the test for a 27-yard field goal attempt. Parker was perfect (17 of 17) from inside the 40, but that New Year’s Eve day, he missed wide right, giving Auburn a 32-29 win. Coaches: Terry Bowden – Auburn; Bob Sutton – Army MVPs: (O) Dameyune Craig, Auburn; (D) Rickey Neal, Auburn; Takeo Spikes, Auburn Weather: Partly Sunny, Warm

SCORING

1st Quarter: AUBURN – (10:59) Jaret Holmes 31-yard field goal; (5:20) Tyrone Goodson 30-yard pass from Dameyune Craig (Holmes kick) 2nd Quarter: AUBURN – (12:17) Willie Gosha 7-yard pass from Craig (Holmes); (3:15) Holmes 49-yard field goal; ARMY – (1:15) Bobby Williams 3-yard run (Jay Parker kick)

3rd Quarter: AUBURN – (8:51) Craig 33-yard run (pass incomplete); (1:04) Rusty Williams 18-yard run (pass incomplete)

4th Quarter: ARMY – (12:44) Demetrius Perry 12-yard run (Parker); (5:52) Williams 1-yard run (Parker); (1:27) Rod Richardson 30-yard pass from Ronnie McAda (Williams run)

TEAM STATISTICS AUBURN ARMY

First Downs 27 18

Rushes-Net Yards 36-195 56-264

Net Yards Passing 372 148 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 24-40-1 10-16-0

Total Plays 76 72

Total Net Yards 533 365

Fumbles-Lost 3-3 1-1

Penalties-Yards 5-47 3-20

Punts-Average 2-41.5 6-43.0

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

AUBURN: Dameyune Craig 13-75, 1 TD; Rusty Williams 12-72, 1 TD; Fred Beasely 8-5; Kevin McLeod 2-5; Markeith Cooper 1-4

ARMY: Bobby Williams 12-82, 2 TD; Demetrius Perry 19-81, 1 TD; Ronnie McAda 12-32, 1 TD; Jeff Brizic 8-29; Joe Hewitt 5-21 PASSING

AUBURN: Dameyune Craig 24/40 (60%), 372 yards, 2 TD, 1 INT

ARMY: Ronnie McAda 10/16 (62.5%), 148 yards, 1 TD RECEIVING

AUBURN: Willie Gosha 10-132, 1 TD; Robert Baker 5-104; Tyrone Goodson 2-78, 1 TD; Karsten Bailey 4-39; Markeith Cooper 2-15; Jessie McCovery 1-4

ARMY: Bobby Williams 3-74; Rod Richardson 2-59, 1 TD; Ron Thomas 2-14; Jeff Brizic 1-5; Ron Leshinski 1-5; Demetrius Perry 1-(-9) PUNTING

AUBURN: Jaret Holmes 2/41.5

ARMY: Scot Lord 6/43.0

LSU - 27

NOTRE DAME - 9

December 28, 1997

Attendance: 50,459

22nd – The 22nd Independence Bowl marked two milestones for this postseason game, with an attendance record of 50,459, and the final year with Poulan/ Weed Eater as the title sponsor. Notre Dame jumped out to an early lead with a 33-yard field goal, and found themselves on top 6-3 at the half. The second half was almost all LSU as Tiger running back Rondell Mealey broke a number of personal and Independence Bowl records with 222 yards rushing and two touchdowns. Hometown boy Abram Booty added one touchdown reception. LSU’s Wade Richey added six to the total and ND’s Scott Cengia scored six, but the Tigers rolled to a 27-9 win.

Coaches: Gerry DiNardo – LSU; Bob Davie – Notre Dame

MVPs: (O) Rondell Mealey, LSU; (D) Arnold Miller, LSU

Weather: Cold, Overcast, Spotty Rain

SCORING

1st Quarter: NOTRE DAME – (7:13) Scott Cengia 33-yard field goal

2nd Quarter: LSU – (7:12) Wade Richey 37-yard field goal; NOTRE DAME – (0:20) Cengia 21-yard field goal

3rd Quarter: LSU – (9:17) Richey 42-yard field goal; (4:05) Abram Booty 12-yard pass from Herb Tyler (Richey kick)

4th Quarter: NOTRE DAME – (13:10) Cengia 33-yard field goal; LSU – (12:47) Rondell Mealey 2-yard run (Richey); (2:22) Mealey 1-yard run (Richey)

TEAM STATISTICS NOTRE DAME LSU

First Downs 19 19

Rushes-Net Yards 41-128 52-265

Net Yards Passing 115 61 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 13-25-0 5-12-0

Total Plays 66

Fumbles-Lost 1-1 0-0

Penalties-Yards 5-30 5-55

Punts-Average 5-45.0 4-35.8

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

NOTRE DAME: Autry Denson 20-101; Ken Barry 8-43; Tony Driver 1-1; Clement Stokes 1-(-2); Jarious Jackson 4-(-2); Ron Powlus 7-(-13)

LSU: Rondell Mealey 34-222, 2 TD; Tommy Banks 6-23; Herb Tyler 9-13; Kevin Faulk 3-7

PASSING

NOTRE DAME: Ron Powlus 8/18 (44.4%), 66 yards; Jarious Jackson 5/7 (71.4%), 49 yards

LSU: Herb Tyler 5/12 (41.7%, 61 yards, 1 TD

RECEIVING

Notre Dame: Malcolm Johnson 5-49; Autry Denson 3-32; Joey Getherall 3-23; Bobby Brown 1-10; Ken Barry 1-1

LSU: Abram Booty 5-61, 1 TD

PUNTING

NOTRE DAME: Hunter Smith 5/45.0

LSU: Chad Kessler 2/42.5; Jeremy Witten 2/29.0

Game-by-Game results

OLE MISS - 35 TEXAS TECH - 18

December 31, 1998

Attendance: 46,862

23rd – The 23rd Independence Bowl was a rematch of the 1986 game which pitted the Rebels of Ole Miss against the Red Raiders of Texas Tech. Once again, Ole Miss came out on top, 35-18 before a crowd of 46,862. David Cutcliffe made his debut as a head coach leading the Rebels to their second win in three tries in the Independence Bowl. The game was evenly matched through the third quarter with Ole Miss only up by four, but the Rebels poured it on scoring 21 points in the fourth, while Texas Tech could only put up eight.

Coaches: David Cutcliffe – Ole Miss; Spike Dykes – Texas Tech MVPs: (O) Romaro Miller, Ole Miss; (D) Kendrick Clancy, Ole Miss Weather: Partly Cloudy and Cool

Miss 7 7 0 21 35

Tech 7 3 0 8 18

SCORING

1st Quarter: TEXAS TECH – (5:47) Derek Dorris 22-yard pass from Rob Peters (Chris Birkholz kick); OLE MISS – (1:18) Ken Lucas 33yard pass from Romaro Miller (Carlisle McGee kick)

2nd Quarter: OLE MISS – (6:04) Deuce McAllister 32-yard pass from Miller (McGee); TEXAS TECH – (2:18) Birkholz 49-yard field goal

4th Quarter: OLE MISS – (8:22) Cory Peterson 26-yard pass from Miller (McGee); (3:28) McAllister 4-yard run (McGee); TEXAS TECH – (0:44) Kevin McCullar fumble recovery (Tim Winn pass); OLE MISS – (0:38) McAllister 43-yard kickoff return (McGee)

TEAM STATISTICS OLE MISS TEXAS TECH

First Downs 19 18

Rushes-Net Yards 45-139 34-82

Net Yards Passing 216 203 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 14-23-1 16-30-2

Total Plays 68 64

Total Net Yards 355 285

Fumbles-Lost 3-2 2-1

Penalties-Yards 7-86 5-55

Punts-Average 5-32.4 6-30.8

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

OLE MISS: Deuce McAllister 27-83, 1 TD; Charles Stackhouse 9-37; Joe Gunn 5-14; Rufus French 1-9; Tony Cannion 1-3; Davis Morris 1-1; Romaro Miller 1-(-4)

TEXAS TECH: Ricky Williams 23-95; Rob Peters 6-27; Derek Dorris 1-5; Rickey Hunter 2-1; Matt Tittle 2-0 PASSING

OLE MISS: Romaro Miller 14/23 (60.9%), 216 yards, 3 TD, 1 INT

TEXAS TECH: Matt Tittle 11/19 (57.9%), 134 yards, 0 TD, 2 INT; Rob Peters 5/11 (45.5%), 69 yards, 1 TD RECEIVING

OLE MISS: Rufus French 4-46; Cory Peterson 3-54; Deuce McAllister 2-55, 1 TD; Jamie Armstrong 2-26; Ken Lucas 1-33, 1 TD; Charles Stackhouse 1-2; Joe Gunn 1-0

TEXAS TECH: Derek Dorris 5-66, 1 TD; Donnie Hart 4-50; Dee Jackson 3-22; Kyle Allamon 2-42; Ricky Williams 1-15; Tim Baker 1-8 PUNTING

OLE MISS: Reagan King 4/38.3

TEXAS TECH: Jeremy Hernandez 6/30.8

OLE MISS - 27 OKLAHOMA - 25

December 31, 1999

Attendance: 49,873

24th – The 24th edition saw Ole Miss earn its third I-Bowl win in four tries, while David Cutcliffe won his second straight bowl. Ole Miss jumped on top early on a Deuce McAllister 25-yard TD reception. OU mounted a comeback by scoring 15 in the third and jumped ahead on a 17-yard Josh Heupel TD pass late in the fourth. Down 25-24 with 2:17 left, McAllister's 42-yard kickoff return helped the Rebels get to the OU 22 with three seconds left. Les Binkley made a 39-yard field goal, giving Ole Miss the 27-25 win. Coaches: David Cutcliffe – Ole Miss; Bob Stoops – Oklahoma MVPs: (O) Josh Heupel, Oklahoma; (D) Tim Strickland, Ole Miss Weather: Clear and Cool

SCORING

1st Quarter: OLE MISS – (9:09) Deuce McAllister 25-yard pass from Romaro Miller (Les Binkley kick); OKLAHOMA – (5:22) Tim Duncan 34-yard field goal

2nd Quarter: OLE MISS – (8:13) Adam Bettis 9-yard pass from Miller (Binkley); (4:05) McAllister 80-yard run (Binkley)

3rd Quarter: OKLAHOMA – (11:26) Jarrail Jackson 3-yard pass from Josh Heupel (Duncan kick); (3:58) Brandon Daniels 41-yard pass from Heupel (Duncan)

4th Quarter: OKLAHOMA – (11:18) Binkley 29-yard field goal; (2:17) Quenton Griffin 17-yard pass from Heupel (Duncan); OLE MISS –(0:00) Binkley 39-yard field goal

TEAM STATISTICS OLE MISS OKLAHOMA

First Downs 19 27

Rushes-Net Yards 33-159 23-91

Net Yards Passing 202 390 Passing (Comp-Att-Int)

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

OLE MISS: Deuce McAllister 17-121, 1 TD; Joe Gunn 5-27; Toward Sanford 4-20; Charles Stackhouse 2-6; Romaro Miller 5-(-15)

OKLAHOMA: Quenton Griffin 12-86; Brandon Daniels 2-25; Reggie Skinner 1-0; Josh Heupel 7-(-3); Patrick Fletcher 1-(-17)

PASSING

OLE MISS: Romaro Miller 18/28 (64.3%), 202 yards, 2TD, 2 INT; Deuce McAllister 0/1

OKLAHOMA: Josh Heupel 39/53 (73.6%), 390 yards 3 TD, 1 INT; Brandon Daniels 0/1

RECEIVING

OLE MISS: Cory Peterson 5-51; Deuce McAllister 3-55, 1 TD; Jamie Armstrong 3-16; Maurice Flournoy 2-43; Adam Bettis 2-16, 1 TD; L.J. Taylor 2-14; Toward Sanford 1-7

OKLAHOMA: Jarrail Jackson 10-76, 1 TD; Quenton Griffin 8-65, 1 TD; Brandon Daniels 6-109, 1 TD; Antwone Savage 6-76; Trent Smith 3-28; Damian Mackey 2-14; Curtis Fagan 2-10; Chris Hammons 1-12; Josh Norman 1-0

PUNTING

OLE MISS: Reagan King 5/39.4

OKLAHOMA: Jeff Ferguson 1/10.0

SCORE BY QUARTERS

MISSISSIPPI STATE - 43 TEXAS A&M - 41

December 31, 2000

Attendance: 36,974

Game-by-Game results

25th – The 25th Independence Bowl went down in history as the “Snow Bowl,” as a blizzard hit Shreveport during pre-game warmups. Texas A&M got out to a 14-0 lead in the 1st quarter, but the Bulldogs outscored A&M 14-6 in the second frame. MSU then scored once in the third for a one-point lead. The Aggies outscored MSU 15-14 in the fourth to send it to OT tied at 35. A&M got on the board first in OT when Ja’Mar Toombs ran 25 yards for a score, but the extra point was blocked and returned for a defensive PAT. MSU came back and scored on Wayne Madkin’s six-yard TD run for the 43-41 OT win.

Coaches: Jackie Sherrill – Mississippi State; R.C. Slocum – Texas A&M MVPs: (O) Ja’Mar Toombs, Texas A&M; (D) Willie Blade, Miss. State Weather: Cold with snow

ALABAMA - 14 IOWA STATE - 13

December 27, 2001

Attendance: 45,627

26th – The 26th Independence Bowl was a low-scoring game, but filled with excitement right down to the final seconds. Iowa State nearly doubled the offensive output of Alabama, but the Crimson Tide managed to pull out the win, as State kicker Tony Yelk just missed a 47-yard field goal attempt with just under a minute left in the game that would have won it for the Cyclones. Alabama trailed the entire game, until quarterback Andrew Zow hit Terry Jones, Jr. for a 27 yard touchdown with 4:44 left in the game. Neal Thomas’ kick put the Tide up by one. That lead would hold and Alabama upped its record to 7-5 on the season while the Cyclones fell to 7-5.

Coaches: Dennis Franchione – Alabama; Dan McCarney – Iowa St. MVPs: (O) Seneca Wallace, Iowa State; (D) Waine Bacon, Alabama; Matt Word, Iowa State

Weather: Partly Cloudy and Cool

St. 0 14 7 14 8 43

A&M 14 6 0 15 6 41

SCORING

1st Quarter: TEXAS A&M – (12:56) Richard Whitaker 9-yard run (Terence Kitchens kick); (8:06) Ja'Mar Toombs 4-yard run (Kitchens) 2nd Quarter: MISSISSIPPI STATE – (9:22) Dontae Walker 40-yard run (Scott Westerfield kick); (0:54) Dicenzo Miller 4-yard pass from Wayne Madkin (Westerfield); TEXAS A&M – (0:46) Robert Ferguson 42-yard pass from Mark Farris (kick blocked)

3rd Quarter: MISSISSIPPI STATE – (11:55) Walker 1-yard run (Westerfield)

4th Quarter: TEXAS A&M – (14:51) Bethel Johnson 35-yard pass from Farris (Whitaker rush for two); (9:20) Toombs 13yard run (Kitchens); MISSISSIPPI STATE – (8:17) Walker 32-yard run (Westerfield); (1:30) Donald Lee 3-yard pass from Madkin (Westerfield)

OT: TEXAS A&M – Toombs 25-yard run (Kitchens kick blocked); MISSISSIPPI STATE – Julius Griffith PAT return for two; Madkin 6-yard run

TEAM STATISTICS MISSISSIPPI STATE TEXAS A&M

First Downs 16 14

Rushes-Net Yards 40-246 47-209

Net Yards Passing 71 133

Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 9-19-0 9-11-1

Total Plays 59 58

Total Net Yards 317 342

Fumbles-Lost 4-1 1-1

Penalties-Yards 6-45 7-71

Punts-Average 7-37.1 7-34.3

RUSHING

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

MISSISSIPPI STATE: Dontae Walker 16-143, 3 TD; Dicenzo Miller 11-48; Wayne Madkin 11-38, 1 TD; Justin Griffith 2-17

TEXAS A&M: Ja'Mar Toombs 35-193, 3 TD; Richard Whitaker 8-16, 1 TD; Joe Weber 2-2; Mark Farris 2-(-2)

PASSING

MISSISSIPPI STATE: Wayne Madkin 9/19 (47.4%), 71 yards, 2 TD

TEXAS A&M: Mark Farris 9/11 (81.8%), 133 yards, 2 TD, 1 INT

RECEIVING

MISSISSIPPI STATE: Dicenzo Miller 4-30, 1 TD; Donald Lee 2-29, 1 TD; Harold Lindsey 1-7; Brandon Butler 1-3; Justin Griffith 1-2

TEXAS A&M: Robert Ferguson 3-54, 1 TD; Ja'Mar Toombs 2-(-4); Bethel Johnson 1-35, 1 TD; Greg Porter 1-31; Chris Taylor 1-15; Joe Weber 1-2

PUNTING

MISSISSIPPI STATE: Prentiss Cole 7/37.1

TEXAS A&M: Cody Scates 7/34.3 SCORE BY QUARTERS

SCORING

1st Quarter: IOWA STATE – (13:18) Tony Yelk 36-yard field goal

2nd Quarter: IOWA STATE – (14:26) Joe Woodley 1-yard run (Yelk); ALABAMA – (9:19) Andrew Zow 8-yard run (Neal Thomas kick)

3rd Quarter: IOWA STATE – (2:11) Yelk 41-yard field goal

4th Quarter: ALABAMA – (4:44) Terry Jones, Jr. 27-yard pass from Zow (Thomas)

TEAM STATISTICS ALABAMA IOWA STATE

First Downs 15 23

Rushes-Net Yards 39-150 32-172

Net Yards Passing 119 284 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 11-19-1 25-42-0

Total Plays 58 74

Total Net Yards 269 456

Fumbles-Lost 0-0

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

ALABAMA: Ahmaad Galloway 16-91; Santonio Beard 8-45; Freddie Milons 1-12; Donnie Lowe 2-8; Ray Hudson 1-1; Andrew Zow 11-(-6-), 1 TD

IOWA STATE: Ennis Haywood 20-125; Lane Danielsen 1-33; Seneca Wallace 7-28; JaMaine Billups 2-3; Michael Wagner 1-2; Joe Woodley 1-1, 1 TD PASSING

ALABAMA: Andrew Zow 11/19 (57.9%), 119 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT

IOWA STATE: Seneca Wallace 25/42 (59.5%), 284 yards RECEIVING

ALABAMA: Freddie Milons 3-32; Terry Jones, Jr. 2-44, 1 TD; Sam Collins 2-28; Jason McAddley 2-10; Santonio Beard 1-8; Ahmaad Galloway 1-(-3)

IOWA STATE: Craig Campbell 7-109; Lane Danielson 5-57; Ennis Haywood 5-34; Jack Whitver 4-66; Mike Banks 3-19; Jamaul Montgomery 1-(-1)

PUNTING

ALABAMA: Lane Bearden 7/39.9

IOWA STATE: Tony Yelk 3/47.3

BY QUARTERS

Game-by-Game results

OLE MISS - 27 NEBRASKA - 23

December 27, 2002

Attendance: 46,096

27th – The 27th I-Bowl got off to a slow start with Nebraska going on top in the first quarter with a field goal. Those were the only points scored in the first. Each team scored 14 in the second, and the Huskers went to halftime with a 17-14 lead.

DeJuan Groce’s 60-yard punt return for a TD with 2:43 left in the first half was his fourth TD return on the season, which tied an NCAA record. The Rebels outscored Nebraska 10-3 in the third and led 24-20 heading to the fourth. Each team added a field goal in the final frame, which was good enough to give Ole Miss its fourth consecutive I-Bowl win and its fourth overall on five appearances with a 27-23 victory.

Coaches: David Cutcliffe – Ole Miss; Frank Solich – Nebraska

MVPs: (O) Eli Manning, Ole Miss; (D) Chris Kelsay, Nebraska

Weather: Sunny and 53 degrees

SCORING

1st Quarter: NEBRASKA – (6:53) Josh Brown 29-yard field goal

2nd Quarter: NEBRASKA – (13:38) Matt Herian 41-yard pass from Jammal Lord (Brown kick); OLE MISS – (7:47) Kerry Johnson 11yard pass from Eli Manning (Jonathan Nichols kick); NEBRASKA – (2:43) DeJuan Groce 60-yard punt return (Brown); OLE MISS –(1:32) Toward Sanford 1-yard run (Nichols)

3rd Quarter: OLE MISS – (9:02) Nichols 37-yard field goal; NEBRASKA – (8:06) Brown 23-yard field goal; OLE MISS – (3:24) Sanford 1-yard run (Nichols)

4th Quarter: NEBRASKA – (7:50) Brown 29-yard field goal; OLE MISS – (4:38) Nichols 43-yard field goal

TEAM STATISTICS

OLE MISS NEBRASKA

First Downs 20 17

Rushes-Net Yards 32-52 52-266

Net Yards Passing 313 93

Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 25-44-0 7-17-2

Total Plays 76 69

Total Net Yards 365 359

Fumbles-Lost 1-0 0-0

Penalties-Yards 6-41 6-70

Punts-Average 8-43.8 6-43.8

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

OLE MISS: Ronald McClendon 12-36; Tremaine Turner 7-30; Rick Razzano 4-6; Toward Sanford 3-4, 2 TD; Eli Manning 6-(-24) NEBRASKA: Dahrran Diedrick 13-92; Jammal Lord 17-83; David Horne 15-65; Judd Davies 5-15; Josh Davis 2-11

PASSING

OLE MISS: Eli Manning 25/44 (56.8%), 313 yards, 1 TD NEBRASKA: Jammal Lord 7/16 (43.8%), 93 yards, 1 TD, 2 INT; Judd Davies 0/1

RECEIVING

OLE MISS: Bill Flowers 6-76; Chris Collins 6-58; Taye Biddle 4-62; Kerry Johnson 3-47, 1 TD; Mike Espy 2-54; Eric Rice 2-8; Rick Razzano 1-9; Ronald McClendon 1-(-1)

NEBRASKA: Wilson Thomas 3-34; Matt Herian 1-41, 1 TD; Ross Pilkington 1-24; Mark LeFlore 1-(-2); JoshDavis 1-(-4)

PUNTING

OLE MISS: Cody Ridgeway 8/43.8

NEBRASKA: Kyle Larson 6/43.8

ARKANSAS - 27 MISSOURI - 14

December 31, 2003

Attendance: 49,625

28th – The 28th I-Bowl matched a pair of eight-win teams for the first time since 1993. Arkansas got on the board first with a 33-yard field goal by Chris Balseiro, who went on to kick three more on the night for an I-Bowl record. Missouri fought back and went on top 7-3 on a Zack Abron 1-yard TD run. In the second quarter, Matt Jones and Cedric Cobbs each ran it in the endzone to put the Razorbacks up 21-7 at the half. Missouri finally got back on the board in the third quarter with a Brad Smith rushing TD, putting the score at 24-14 going into the fourth. Balseiro’s field goal was the fourth quarter's only points, giving Arkansas the 27-14 win. Coaches: Houston Nutt – Arkansas; Gary Pinkel – Missouri MVPs: (O) Cedric Cobbs, Arkansas; (D) Caleb Miller, Arkansas Weather: Partly Cloudy and Cool

SCORING

1st Quarter: ARKANSAS – (8:50) Chris Balseiro 33-yard field goal; MISSOURI – (6:50) Zack Abron 1-yard run (Mike Matheny kick) 2nd Quarter: ARKANSAS – (13:09) Balseiro 28-yard field goal; (7:24) Matt Jones 1-yard run (George Wilson pass from Jones); (5:59) Cedric Cobbs 41-yard run (Balseiro)

3rd Quarter: IOWA STATE – (5:21) Balseiro 25-yard field goal; MISSOURI – (0:39) Brad Smith 5-yard run (Matheny)

4th Quarter: ARKANSAS – (12:57) Balseiro 24-yard field goal

TEAM STATISTICS ARKANSAS MISSOURI

First Downs 19 25

Rushes-Net Yards 47-300 49-252

Net Yards Passing 85 155

Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 9-18-0 17-31-2

Total Plays 65 80

Total Net Yards 385 407

Fumbles-Lost 0-0 2-1

Penalties-Yards

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

ARKANSAS: Cedric Cobbs 27-141, 1 TD; DeCori Birmingham 10-85; Matt Jones 7-74, 1 TD; De'Arrius Howard 2-2; Cedric Washington 1-(-2)

MISSOURI: Zack Abron 19-137, 1 TD; Brad Smith 20-96, 1 TD; Damien Nash 9-60 PASSING

ARKANSAS: Matt Jones 6/14 (42.9%), 49 yards; Ryan Sorahan 3/3 (100%), 0 yards; Cedric Washington 0/1

MISSOURI: Brad Smith 17/30 (56.7%), 155 yards, 1 INT; Santino Riccio 0/1, 1 INT

RECEIVING

ARKANSAS: Richard Smith 3-29; George Wilson 3-25; Steven Harris 1-13; Jason Peters 1-11; Cedric Cobbs 1-7

MISSOURI: Thomson Omboga 8-63; Sean Coffey 4-68; Darius Outlaw 1-19; Marcus James 1-9; Clint Matthews 1-4; Zack Abron 1-1; Rob Droege 1-(-9)

PUNTING

ARKANSAS: Jacob Skinner 4/30.0

MISSOURI: Brock Harvey 2/37.5

SCORE BY QUARTERS

Game-by-Game results

IOWA STATE - 17 MIAMI (OH) - 13

December 28, 2004

Attendance: 43,076

29th – The 29th Independence Bowl was another close game, with a total of 30 points scored by both teams combined. Iowa State got on the board first, scoring seven in the first quarter. The Cyclones followed that with a 23-yard field goal in the second quarter, giving them a 10-7 halftime lead, after Miami put seven on the board just before the half. Miami then came out and scored six in the third quarter, missing the extra point. Iowa State put the final points on the board with a touchdown early in the fourth quarter, giving Iowa State the win, 17-13. This marked the first win for a Big 12 team in the Independence Bowl.

Coaches: Dan McCarney – Iowa State; Terry Hoeppner – Miami (OH)

MVPs: (O) Bret Meyer, Iowa State; (D) Nik Moser, Iowa State Weather: Sunny and 56 degrees

MISSOURI - 38 SOUTH CAROLINA - 31

December 30, 2005

Attendance: 41,332

30th – The 30th I-Bowl brought Missouri Tigers to Shreveport to take on South Carolina. Steve Spurrier saw his Gamecocks jump out to a 21-0 lead after the first quarter and it looked as if a blowout was on the horizon. Missouri outscored them 14-7 in the second fram to make it 28-14 at the half. The second half was all Missouri, as the Tigers outscored South Carolina 24-3. Missouri came away with a 38-31 win, the first time a Big 12 team had defeated an SEC team in the 30-year history of the I-Bowl.

Coaches: Steve Spurrier – South Carolina; Gary Pinkel – Missouri MVPs: (O) Brad Smith, Missouri; (D) Marcus King, Missouri Weather: Partly Cloudy and Warm

Iowa State 7 3 0 7 17 Miami (OH) 0 7 6 0 13

SCORING

1st Quarter: IOWA STATE – (4:04) Stevie Hicks 4-yard run (Bret Culbertson kick)

2nd Quarter: IOWA STATE – Culbertson 23-yard field goal; MIAMI – (0:25) Luke Clemens 28-yard pass from Josh Betts (Jared Parseghian kick)

3rd Quarter: MIAMI – (8:12) Mike Smith 2-yard run (Todd Soderquist kick blocked)

4th Quarter: IOWA STATE – (13:02) Ryan Kock 1-yard run (Culbertson)

TEAM STATISTICS IOWA STATE MIAMI (OH)

First Downs 22 18

Rushes-Net Yards 59-295 25-60

Net Yards Passing 114 240

Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 10-28-0 20-44-1

Total Plays 87 69

Total Net Yards 409 300

Fumbles-Lost 0-0 1-0

Penalties-Yards 7-71 7-48

Punts-Average 7-37.9 8-45.4

RUSHING

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

IOWA STATE: Stevie Hicks 27-159, 1 TD; Bret Meyer 23-122; Ryan Kock 3-7, 1 TD; Todd Blythe 1-6; Jon Davis 1-5; Greg Coleman 1-2

MIAMI: Mike Smith 9-46, 1 TD; Luke Clemens 8-22; Brandon Murphy 1-0; Josh Betts 7-(-8), 1 TD PASSING

IOWA STATE: Bret Meyer 10/28 (35.7%), 114 yards

MIAMI: Josh Betts 20/44 (45.5%), 240 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT RECEIVING

IOWA STATE: Todd Blythe 3-42; Jon Davis 3-30; Ben Barkema 2-23; Todd Miller 2-19

MIAMI: Ryne Robinson 7-101; R.J. Corbin 2-40; Michael Larkin 2-19; Korey Kirkpatrick 2-17; Ryan Busing 2-10; Mike Smith 2-9; Luke Clemens 1-28, 1 TD; Dan Tyler 1-14; JoshWilliams 1-2 PUNTING

IOWA STATE: Troy Blankenship 7/37.9

MIAMI: Mike Wafzig 8/45.4 SCORE BY

SCORING

1st Quarter: SOUTH CAROLINA – (12:07) Sidney Rice 23-yard pass from Blake Mitchell (Josh Brown kick); (9:37) Mike Davis 5-yard run (Brown); (7:11) Carson Askins 20-yard pass from Mitchell (Brown) 2nd Quarter: MISSOURI – (6:49) Marcus King 99-yard interception return (Adam Crossett kick); SOUTH CAROLINA – (4:28) Davis 2-yard run (Brown); MISSOURI – (0:20) Chase Coffman 5-yard pass from Brad Smith (Crossett)

3rd Quarter: MISSOURI – (2:41) Smith 31-yard run (Crossett)

4th Quarter: MISSOURI – (14:22) Smith 4-yard run (Crossett); (10:14) Crossett 50-yard field goal; SOUTH CAROLINA – (4:16) Brown 30yard field goal; MISSOURI – (2:13) Smith 1-yard run (Crossett)

TEAM STATISTICS SOUTH CAROLINA MISSOURI

First Downs 21 21

Rushes-Net Yards 32-142 40-203

Net Yards Passing 266 301

Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 20-38-3 23-43-1

Total Plays 70 83

Total Net Yards 408 504

Fumbles-Lost 1-0 1-1

Penalties-Yards 5-52 8-87

Punts-Average 6-40.0 5-45.8

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

SOUTH CAROLINA: Mike Davis 18-25, 2 TD; Bobby Wallace 7-14; Antonio Heffner 2-8; Blake Mitchell 3-(-1); Kris Clark 1-(-4)

MISSOURI: Brad Smith 21-150, 3 TD; Tony Temple 11-29; A.J. Kincade 2-12; Jimmy Jackson 4-7; Chase Daniel 2-5

PASSING

SOUTH CAROLINA: Blake Mitchell 20/38 (52.6%), 266 yards, 2 TD, 3 INT

MISSOURI: Brad Smith 21/37 (56.8%), 282 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT; Chase Daniel 1/4 (25%), 6 yards; Brad Ekwerekwu 1/2 (50%), 13 yards

RECEIVING

SOUTH CAROLINA: Sidney Rice 12-191, 1 TD; Mike Davis 3-11; Bobby Wallace 2-12; Carson Askins 1-20, 1 TD; Kris Clark 1-20; Kenny McKinley 1-12

MISSOURI: Chase Coffman 8-99, 1 TD; Martin Rucker 5-83; William Franklin 3-56; Brad Ekwerekwu 3-29; Tony Temple 2-16; Tommy Saunders 1-10; Jimmy Jackson 1-8

PUNTING

SOUTH CAROLINA: Josh Brown 6/40.0

MISSOURI: Adam Crossett 5/45.8

OKLAHOMA STATE - 34 ALABAMA - 31

December 28, 2006

Attendance: 45,054

Game-by-Game results

31st – Oklahoma State booted a 27-yard field goal with eight seconds left to give the Cowboys a thrilling 34-31 victory over the Alabama Crimson Tide in front of 45,054 fans. The Cowboys held a 31-17 with 14:02 left, but Alabama’s Javier Arenas returned a punt 86 yards for a score. The Tide then evened the score at 31 after a two-yard TD run by Andre Smith following a fumble recovery on the previous kickoff. OSU running back Dantrell Savage was named Offensive MVP after rushing for 112 yards and a score. For the seventh time in eight years, the outcome of the I-Bowl was decided by seven points or fewer. The 86-yard punt return for a TD by Arenas was the longest return for a TD in I-Bowl history. Coaches: Mike Gundy – Oklahoma State; Joe Kines – Alabama MVPs: (O) Dantrell Savage, Oklahoma St.; (D) Jeremy Nethon, Oklahoma St.

SCORING

1st Quarter: OKLAHOMA STATE – (9:46) Dantrell Savage 1-yard run (Jason Ricks kick); ALABAMA – (3:32) Matt Caddell 18-yard pass from John Parker Wilson (Jamie Christensen kick)

2nd Quarter: OKLAHOMA STATE – (11:12) Keith Toston 4-yard run (Ricks); (6:45) Ricks 28-yard field goal; ALABAMA – (2:30) Tim Castille 1-yard run (Christensen); OKLAHOMA STATE – (0:41) Toston 7-yard run (Ricks)

3rd Quarter: ALABAMA – (8:39) Christensen 24-yard field goal

4th Quarter: OKLAHOMA STATE – (14:02) Adarius Bowman 10-yard pass from Bobby Reid (Ricks) ; ALABAMA – (10:50) Javier Arenas 86-yard punt return (Christensen); (8:41) Andre Smith 2-yard run (Christensen); OKLAHOMA STATE – (0:08) Ricks 27-yard field goal

TEAM STATISTICS OKLAHOMA STATE ALABAMA

First Downs 23 18

Rushes-Net Yards 41-207 34-108

Net Yards Passing 212 168 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 15-30-1 18-33-1

Total Plays 71 67

Total Net Yards 419 276

Fumbles-Lost 3-1 3-2

Penalties-Yards 9-77 8-45

Punts-Average 5-35.0 5-36.6

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

OKLAHOMA STATE: Dantrell Savage 19-112, 1 TD; Keith Toston 9-58, 2 TD; Bobby Reid 10-34; Zac Robinson 1-5; Julius Crosslin 1-0

ALABAMA: Jimmy Johns 7-39; Kenneth Darby 10-15; Le'Ron McClain 1-11; John Parker Wilson 6-10; Matt Caddell 1-10; Tim Castille 6-9, 1 TD; Keith Brown 1-6; DJ Hall 1-6; Andre Smith 1-2, 1 TD PASSING

OKLAHOMA STATE: Bobby Reid 15/28 (53.8%), 212 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT; Seth Newton 0/1

ALABAMA: John Parker Wilson 18/33 (54.5%), 168 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT RECEIVING

OKLAHOMA STATE: Brandon Pettigrew 4-65; Adarius Bowman 3-50, 1 TD; Dantrell Savage 3-41; D'Juan Woods 3-26; Justin Waller 1-22; Keith Toston 1-8

ALABAMA: DJ Hall 5-42; Kenneth Darby 4-30; Matt Caddell 3-33, 1 TD; Nikita Stover 1-17; Tim Castille 1-17; Le'Ron McClain 1-9; Keith Brown 1-7; Travis McCall 1-7; Will Oakley 1-6 PUNTING

OKLAHOMA STATE: Matt Fodge 5/35.0 ALABAMA: P.J. Fitzgerald 5/36.6

ALABAMA - 30 COLORADO - 24

December 30, 2007

Attendance: 47,043

32nd – The 32nd annual edition of the game was another close contest, as Alabama held off Colorado by a score of 30-24. Alabama raced out to a 20-0 lead after one quarter and led 27-0 early in the second, but was outscored by Colorado 24-3 the rest of the game. Alabama still managed to hold on for the victory. In the victory, Alabama set an NCAA record for bowl game appearances (55) and wins (31). Tide QB John Parker Wilson earned the game’s Offensive MVP honors as he passed for 256 yards and three TDs. Wallace Gilberry garnered Defensive MVP honors as he made eight total tackles, one sack, and had five tackles for loss.

Coaches: Nick Saban – Alabama; Dan Hawkins – Colorado MVPs: (O) John Parker Wilson, Alabama; (D) Wallace Gilberry, Alabama Weather: Clear

SCORING

1st Quarter: ALABAMA – (11:30) Leigh Tiffin 41-yard field goal; (9:13) Tiffin 24-yard field goal; (5:09) Keith Brown 15-yard pass from John Parker Wilson (Tiffin); (1:31) Matt Caddell 34-yard pass from Wilson (Tiffin)

2nd Quarter: ALABAMA – (12:20) Nikita Stover 31-yard pass from Wilson (Tiffin); COLORADO – (2:05) Tyson DeVree 4-yard pass from Cody Hawkins (Kevin Eberhart kick); (0:04) Dusty Sprague 25-yard pass from Hawkins (Eberhart)

3rd Quarter: COLORADO – (3:00) Eberhart 39-yard field goal

4th Quarter: ALABAMA – (4:36) Tiffin 26-yard field goal; COLORADO – (3:51) DeVree 14-yard pass from Hawkins (Eberhart)

TEAM STATISTICS

ALABAMA COLORADO

First Downs 22 19

Rushes-Net Yards 37-132 28-75

Net Yards Passing 256 322

Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 19-32-1 24-40-2

Total Plays 69 68

Total Net

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

ALABAMA: Glen Coffee 19-72; Roy Upchurch 12-34; John Parker Wilson 4-24; Matt Caddell 1-12; Nikita Stover 1-(-10)

COLORADO: Hugh Charles 14-69; Dusty Sprague 2-14; Daniel Dykes 3-10; Byron Ellis 5-6; Brian Lockridge 2-(-8); Cody Hawkins 2-(-16) PASSING

ALABAMA: John Parker Wilson 19/32 (59.4%), 256 yards, 3 TD, 1 INT

COLORADO: Cody Hawkins 24/39 (61.5%), 322 yards, 3 TD, 2 INT

RECEIVING

ALABAMA: Matt Caddell 4-76, 1 TD; DJ Hall 4-58; Nick Walker 4-38; Nikita Stover 2-35, 1 TD; Roy Upchurch 2-23; Glen Coffee 2-11; Keith Brown 1-15, 1 TD

COLORADO: Tyson DeVree 9-94, 2 TD; Scotty McKnight 4-67; Daniel Dykes 2-40: Dusty Sprague 2-30, 1 TD; Patrick Williams 2-29; Stephone Robinson 2-12; Brian Lockridge 1-22; Joe Sanders 1-13; Jake Behrens 1-5; Daniel Sanders 0-10

PUNTING

ALABAMA: P.J. Fitzgerald 4/45.0

COLORADO: Matthew DiLallo 3/34.3

SCORE BY QUARTERS

LOUISIANA TECH - 17 NORTHERN ILLINOIS - 10

December 28, 2008

Attendance: 41,567

Game-by-Game results

33rd – The 33rd edition featured local favorite Louisiana Tech, making its first appearance since 1990, against Northern Illinois. The Bowl owned the national spotlight on Sunday night on ESPN. Tech speedster Phillip Livas electrified the crowd of over 41,000 with a 97-yard kickoff return for a TD late in the first quarter, which tied the game at 7-7. It was the second-longest in I-Bowl history and first since Ole Miss’ Deuce McAllister returned a kick for a score in the 1998 game. The Bulldogs added 10 more points, including an 11-yard TD run by Daniel Porter, and allowed only a third quarter field goal to NIU as Louisiana Tech held on for the 17-10 victory, its first bowl win since 1977, fittingly also in the Independence Bowl. Coaches: Jerry Kill – Northern Illinois; Derek Dooley – Louisiana Tech MVPs: (O) Philip Livas, La. Tech; (D) Weldon Brown, La. Tech

SCORING

1st Quarter: NORTHERN ILLINOIS – (1:56) Kyle Skarb 8-yard pass from Chandler Harnish (Mike Salerno kick); LOUISIANA TECH –(1:43) Phillip Livas 97-yard kickoff return (Brad Oestriecher kick)

2nd Quarter: LOUISIANA TECH – (13:41) Daniel Porter 11-yard run (Oestriecher)

3rd Quarter: LOUISIANA TECH – (11:54) Oestriecher 33-yard field goal

4th Quarter: NORTHERN ILLINOIS – (7:31) Salerno 20-yard field goal

TEAM STATISTICS NORTHERN ILLINOIS LOUISIANA TECH

First Downs 17 12

Rushes-Net Yards 31-153 31-92

Net Yards Passing 186 144

Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 20-41-2 12-27-0

Total Plays 72 58

Total Net Yards 339 236

Fumbles-Lost 3-1 2-1

Penalties-Yards 7-70 6-40

Punts-Average 6-35.3 8-35.6

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

NORTHERN ILLINOIS: Chad Spann 14-79; Chandler Harnish 12-61; Nathan Palmer 1-12; Me'co Brown 1-2; DeMarcus Grady 2-1

LOUISIANA TECH: Daniel Porter 18-78, 1 TD; Phillip Livas 3-15; Patrick Jackson 5-9; Quin Harris 1-6; Ross Jenkins 4-(-16) PASSING

NORTHERN ILLINOIS: Chandler Harnish 20/40 (50%), 186 yards, 1 TD, 2 INT; Matt Simon 0/1

LOUISIANA TECH: Ross Jenkins 12/27 (44.4%), 144 yards RECEIVING

NORTHERN ILLINOIS: Matt Simon 6-44; Marcus Perez 2-44; Reed Cunningham 2-26; Chad Spann 2-15; Landon Cox 2-15; Greg Turner 2-15; Kyle Skarb 1-8, 1 TD; Connor Flahive 1-8; Me'co Brown 1-6; Britt Davis 1-5

LOUISIANA TECH: Phillip Livas 4-18; Houston Tuminello 2-30; Philip Beck 2-17; Patrick Jackson 1-34; Daniel Porter 1-24; Dennis Morris 1-15; Shane Womack 1-6 PUNTING

NORTHERN ILLINOIS: Andy Dittbenner 5/39.4; Mike Salerno 1/15.0 LOUISIANA TECH: Keagle 8/35.6

GEORGIA - 44 TEXAS A&M - 20

December 28, 2009

Attendance: 49,653

34th – 2009 will forever go down as one of the most memorable I-Bowls in history. The marquee matchup between Texas A&M and Georgia marked the final Big 12-SEC matchup, as the bowl switched conference affiliations in 2010. Also, a sellout crowd enjoyed a beautiful day between two traditional college football programs. The Bulldogs ran away from the Aggies in the second half, expanding a 14-7 halftime lead into a 44-20 final in front of 49,653. Georgia’s Brandon Boykin returned a kickoff 81 yards for a TD in the second quarter, and the Bulldogs rushed for 208 yards. The game was the highest-rated bowl game ever on ESPN2 at the time.

Coaches: Mike Sherman – Texas A&M; Mark Richt – Georgia MVPs: (O) Aron White, Georgia; (D) Geno Atkins, Georgia

SCORING

2nd Quarter: TEXAS A&M – (2:33) Jamie McCoy 15-yard pass from Jerrod Johnson (Randy Bullock kick); GEORGIA – (2:22) Brandon Boykin 81yard kickoff return (Blair Walsh kick); (1:22) Caleb King 2-yard run (Walsh)

3rd Quarter: TEXAS A&M – (12:36) Christine Michael 14-yard run (Bullock); GEORGIA – (9:25) Walsh 49-yard field goal; (7:49) Aron White 24-yard pass from Joe Cox (Walsh)

4th Quarter: GEORGIA – (13:19) White 2-yard pass from Cox (Walsh); (9:47) King 1-yard run (Walsh); (4:29) Shaun Chapas 5-yard run (Andrew Jensen kick failed); TEXAS A&M – (1:13) Howard Morrow 5-yard pass from Johnson (Johnson pass failed)

TEAM STATISTICS

TEXAS A&M GEORGIA

First Downs 26 17 Rushes- Net Yards 33-109 40-208

Net Yards Passing 362 158 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 29-59-2 15-28-1

Total Plays 92 68

Total Net Yards 471 366 Fumbles- Lost 3-0 0-0

Penalties-Yards 7-65 6-39 Punts-Average 7-29.4 6-41.5

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

TEXAS A&M: Christine Michael 15-77, 1 TD; Jerrod Johnson 14-51; Cyrus Gray 3-5

GEORGIA: Washaun Ealey 13-78; Caleb King 16-60, 2 TD; Shaun Chapas 5-43, 1 TD; Fred Munzenmaier 4-20; Joe Cox 1-6; Kevin Lanier 1-1 PASSING

TEXAS A&M: Jerrod Johnson 29/58 (50%), 362 yards, 2 TD, 2 INT

GEORGIA: Joe Cox 15/28 (53.8%), 158 yards, 2 TD, 1 INT

RECEIVING

TEXAS A&M: Jeff Fuller 7-102; Howard Morrow 5-65, 1 TD; Jamie McCoy 4-39, 1 TD; Ryan Swope 4-31; Uzoma Nwachukwu 3-38; Ryan Tannehill 2-35; Kenny Brown 2-7; Brandal Jackson 1-41; Cyrus Gray 1-4

GEORGIA: A.J. Green 6-57; Michael Moore 2-34; Aron White 2-26, 2 TD; Orson Charles 2-8; Caleb King 1-32; Shaun Chapas 1-4; Washaun Ealey 1-(-3)

PUNTING

TEXAS A&M: Ryan Epperson 5/36.4; Randy Bullock 1/24.0

GEORGIA: Drew Butler 6/41.5

SCORE BY QUARTERS

AIR FORCE - 14

GEORGIA TECH - 7

December 27, 2010

Attendance: 39,362

Game-by-Game results

35th – The matchup between Air Force and Georgia Tech was a landmark occasion for the Independence Bowl. The nation’s 11th-oldest bowl game celebrated its 35th anniversary on Dec. 27 as the Falcons met the defending conference champion Yellow Jackets in the inaugural ACC-Mountain West matchup on ESPN2. The teams, meeting for the first time since 1979, waged a defensive battle on a cool, clear day on the freshly installed playing surface at Independence Stadium as Air Force held off Georgia Tech, 14-7 in front over 39,000. The Falcons (9-4) capitalized on Georgia Tech’s special teams mistakes, as the Yellow Jackets (6-7) committed four turnovers. Jon Davis sealed the win with an interception near the goal line with seconds remaining in the game. The two teams entered the contest first and second in the nation in rushing and combined for 449 yards.

Coaches: Troy Calhoun – Air Force: Paul Johnson – Georgia Tech MVPs: (O) Jared Tew, Air Force (D) Rick Ricketts, Air Force

SCORING

1st Quarter: AIR FORCE – (6:32) Zack Bell 42-yard field goal; GEORGIA TECH – (0:41) Anthony Allen 5-yard run (Scott Blair kick)

2nd Quarter: AIR FORCE – (0:00) Bell 41-yard field goal

4th Quarter: AIR FORCE – (13:24) Jared Tew 3-yard run (Jonathan Warzeka rush)

TEAM STATISTICS AIR FORCE GEORGIA TECH

First Downs 17 18

Rushes- Net Yards 49-170 57-279

Net Yards Passing 117 41

Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 11-23-0 5-14-1

Total Plays 72 71

Total Net Yards 287 320

Fumbles- Lost 0-0 4-3

Penalties-Yards 1-5 3-22

Punts-Average 4-36.8 5-36.2

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

AIR FORCE: Jared Tew 18-59, 1 TD; Mikel Hunter 2-34; Asher Clark 8-30; Tim Jefferson, Jr. 12-25; Nathan Walker 5-17; Kyle Halderman 2-8; Jonathan Warzeka- 1-(-3)

GEORGIA TECH: Tevin Washington 28-131; Anthony Allen 23-91, 1 TD; Orwin Smith 4-40; Roddy Jones 2-17

PASSING

AIR FORCE: Tim Jefferson, Jr. 11/23 (47.8%), 117 yards

GEORGIA TECH: Tevin Washington 5/13 (38.5%), 41 yards, 1 INT RECEIVING

AIR FORCE: Chaz Demerath 4-48; Kyle Halderman 4-36; Zack Kauth 2-21; Jonathan Warzeka 1-12

GEORGIA TECH: Daniel McKayhan 1-16; Kevin Cone 1-9; Correy Earls 1-7; Orwin Smith 1-6; Tyler Melton 1-3

PUNTING

AIR FORCE: Keil Bartholomew 3/34.3; Tim Jefferson, Jr. 1/44.0

GEORGIA TECH: Scott Blair 5/36.2

MISSOURI - 41 NORTH CAROLINA - 24

December 26, 2011

Attendance: 41,728

36th – UNC got off to a quick start with a big return on the opening kickoff and an amazing 22-yard TD grab by Dwight Jones on the first drive. The Tigers would answer on the ensuing possession with a trick play, as WR T.J. Moe took a backward pass and threw to a wide-open Wes Kemp for a 40-yard score. The Tigers remained in control of the game from that point on, following the lead of their QB James Franklin. He earned Offensive MVP with 132 passing yards and a TD, while rushing for 142 yards and two more scores.

Coaches: Gary Pinkel – Missouri: Everett Withers – North Carolina MVPs: (O) James Franklin, Missouri; (D) Andrew Wilson, Missouri Weather: Cloudy, Rain

SCORING

1st Quarter: NORTH CAROLINA – (12:12) Dwight Jones 22-yard pass from Bryn Renner (Thomas Moore kick); MISSOURI – (10:06) Wes Kemp 40-yard pass from T.J. Moe (Trey Barrow kick); (2:15) James Franklin 2-yard run (Barrow)

2nd Quarter: MISSOURI – (11:11) Barrow 31-yard field goal; (5:13) Jerrel Jackson 8-yard pass from Franklin; (1:58) Kendial Lawrence 9-yard run (Barrow); NORTH CAROLINA – (0:00) Moore 21-yard field goal

3rd Quarter: NORTH CAROLINA – (4:22) Jheranie Boyd 44-yard pass from Renner (Moore); MISSOURI – (1:56) Franklin 2-yard run (Barrow) 4th Quarter: MISSOURI – (6:22) Barrow 26-yard field goal; NORTH CAROLINA – (4:08) Erik Highsmith 17-yard pass from Renner (Moore)

TEAM STATISTICS

MISSOURI NORTH CAROLINA

First Downs 27 20

Rushes- Net Yards 46-337 19-36

Net Yards Passing 176 317 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 17-26-1 27-42-1

Fumbles- Lost 0-0 1-1

Penalties-Yards 6-49 2-20 Punts-Average 2-39.0 4-48.8

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

MISSOURI: James Franklin 18-142, 2 TD; Kendial Lawrence 16-108, 1 TD; De'Vion Moore 10-59; Jared Culver 1-18; T.J. Moe 1-10

NORTH CAROLINA: Giovani Bernard 13-31; Bryn Renner 4-11; A.J. Blue 1-(-1); Erik Highsmith 1-(-5)

PASSING

MISSOURI: James Franklin 15/23 (65.2%), 132 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT; T.J. Moe 1/2 (50%), 40 yards, 1 TD; Jimmy Costello 1/1, 4 yards

NORTH CAROLINA: Bryn Renner 27/42 (64.3%), 317 yards, 3 TD, 1 INT

RECEIVING

MISSOURI: L'Damian Washington 3-47; Michael Egnew 3-39; Kendial Lawrence 3-13; Wes Kemp 2-48, 1 TD; Jerrel Jackson 2-15, 1 TD; De'Vion Moore 2-2; Gahn McGaffie 1-8; Andrew Jones 1-4

NORTH CAROLINA: Erik Highsmith 8-77, 1 TD; Dwight Jones 6-77, 1 TD; Giovani Bernard 6-36; Jheranie Boyd 3-95, 1 TD; Christian Wilson 2-11; Nelson Hurst 1-14; Curtis Byrd 1-7

PUNTING

MISSOURI: Trey Barrow 2/39.0

NORTH CAROLINA: Thomas Hibbard 4/48.8

Game-by-Game results

OHIO - 45 ULM - 14

December 28, 2012

Attendance: 41,853

37th – Ohio put on a record-setting performance in their first I-Bowl against ULM, who were making their first bowl appearance in program history. Ohio RB Beau Blankenship set the I-Bowl record for most rushing TDs and tied the record for most total TDs after finding the endzone four times from inside two yards. QB Tyler Tettleton passed for 331 yards and two TDs. The duo earned Co-Offensive MVP honors. All totaled, the Bobcats set the I-Bowl record for most total offense with 556 yards and tied the record for most points scored. Their 31-point margin of victory is the largest in I-Bowl history. Coaches: Frank Solich – Ohio; Todd Berry – ULM MVPs: (O) Beau Blankenship, Ohio, Tyler Tettleton, Ohio; (D) Keith Moore, Ohio

ARIZONA - 42 BOSTON COLLEGE - 19

December 31, 2013

Attendance: 36,917

38th – In the only year as the AdvoCare V100 Bowl, Arizona took down Boston College, 42-19. For the second-straight year, the winning team littered the I-Bowl record book. The Wildcats compiled a bowlrecord 28 first downs and tied the bowl record with six TDs. They racked up 529 yards of offense at 7.2 yards per play, both of which claimed third all-time in the bowl’s history. Senior QB B.J. Denker led the way with 326 yards of total offense and three total TDs. He connected with Nate Phillips nine times for a bowl record 193 receiving yards, while All-American RB Ka’Deem Carey rushed for 169 yards, at the time the fourth-highest total in the bowl’s history. Coaches: Rich Rodriguez – Arizona; Steve Addazio – Boston College MVPs: (O) B.J. Denker, Arizona; (D) William Parks, Arizona

SCORING

1st Quarter: OHIO – (12:03) Donte Foster 3-yard pass from Tyler Tettleton (Matt Weller kick); (8:17) Chase Cochran 68-yard pass from Tettleton (Weller) 2nd Quarter: ULM – (14:37) Taverese Maye 14-yard pass from Kolton Browning (Justin Manton kick); OHIO – (11:08) Weller 38yard field goal; (4:50) Beau Blankenship 2-yard run (Weller)

3rd Quarter: OHIO – (12:22) Blankenship 2-yard run (Weller); (8:25) Blankenship 1-yard run (Weller); ULM – (2:40) Kevin Steed 1-yard pass from Browning (Manton)

4th Quarter: OHIO – (14:52) Blankenship 2-yard run (Weller)

TEAM STATISTICS OHIO ULM

First Downs 21 24

Rushes-Net Yards 38-219 38-95

Net Yards Passing 337 219 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 15-23-1 21-40-3

Total Plays 61 78

Total Net Yards 556 314

Fumbles-Lost 3-1 1-0

Penalties-Yards 7-78 3-28

Punts-Average 2-42.0 5-36.8

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

OHIO: Beau Blankenship 19-104, 4 TD; Daz’Mond Patterson 5-36; Tyler Tettleton 4-34; Kyle Hammonds 6-33; Brian Palermo 2-13; Derrius Vick 1-1

ULM: Kolton Browning 24-47; Mitchell Bailey 5-31; Tavarese Maye 3-14; Cortney Davis 3-3; Monterrelle Washington 2-2; Brayle Brown 1-(-2) PASSING

OHIO: Tyler Tettleton 14/22 (63.6%), 331 yards, 2 TD, 1 INT; Matt Waters 1/1, 6 yards

ULM: Kolton Browning 21/39 (53.8%), 219 yards, 2 TD, 3 INT; Brayle Brown 0/1 RECEIVING

OHIO: Tyler Futtrell 5-133; Chase Cochran 3-162, 1 TD; Donte Foster 3-30, 1 TD; Tim Edmond 1-6; Beau Blankenship 1-5; Derrius Vick 1-2; Ryan Clark 1-(-1)

ULM: Brent Leonard 7-76; Tavarese Maye 4-58, 1 TD; Je’Ron Hamm 4-53; Rashon Ceaser 2-23; Cortney Davis 2-5; M Bailey 1-3; Kevin Steed 1-1, 1 TD PUNTING

OHIO: Grant Venham 2/42

ULM: Justin Manton 5/36.8

SCORING

1st Quarter: ARIZONA – (7:51) Ka’Deem Carey 2-yard run (Jake Smith kick); BOSTON COLLEGE – (1:11) Nate Freese 32-yard field goal 2nd Quarter: BOSTON COLLEGE – (8:45) Freese 41-yard field goal; ARIZONA – (4:16) William Parks 69-yard interception return (Smith); (0:30) Trey Griffey 26-yard pass from B.J. Denker (Smith) 3rd Quarter: ARIZONA – (12:11) Ka’Deem Carey 5-yard run (Smith); (4:56) Denker 14-yard run (Smith)

4th Quarter: ARIZONA – (13:40) Griffey 3-yard pass from Denker (Smith); BOSTON COLLEGE – (12:00) Andre Williams 4-yard run (Chase Rettig run failed); (0:35)Tyler Rouse 6-yard run (Freese)

TEAM STATISTICS ARIZONA BOSTON COLLEGE

First Downs 28 20

Rushes-Net Yards 49-254 45-145

Net Yards Passing 275 206 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 17-24-0 17-28-2

Total Plays 73 73

Total Net Yards 529 351

Fumbles-Lost 2-2 0-0

Penalties-Yards 2-23 5-55

Punts-Average 2-31.5 5-38.4

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

ARIZONA: Ka’Deem Carey 27-169, 2 TD; B.J. Denker 14-51, 1 TD; Daniel Jenkins 7-34

BOSTON COLLEGE: Andre Williams 26-75, 1 TD; Tyler Rouse 6-54, 1 TD; Myles Willis 5-25; Josh Bordner 1-4; Alex Amidon 1-(-4); Chase Rettig 6-(-9) PASSING

ARIZONA: B.J. Denker 17/24 (70.8%), 275 yards, 2 TD

BOSTON COLLEGE: Chase Rettig 16/26 (61.5%), 191 yards, 2 INT; Josh Bordner 1/2 (50%), 15 yards

RECEIVING

ARIZONA: Nate Phillips 9-193; Trey Griffey 3-41, 2 TD; Samajie Grant 2-18; Johnny Jackson 1-11; Terrence Miller 1-11; Garic Wharton 1-1

BOSTON COLLEGE: Alex Amidon 10-129; Jake Sinkovec 2-15; Bobby Wolford 1-15; C.J. Parsons 1-15; Joel Rich 1-14; Harrison Jackson 1-9; Mike Naples 1-9

PUNTING

ARIZONA: Drew Riggleman 2/31.5

BOSTON COLLEGE: Nate Freese 5/38.4

SCORE BY QUARTERS

SOUTH CAROLINA - 24

MIAMI - 21

December 27, 2014

Attendance: 38,242

Game-by-Game results

39th – Stars from two prominent programs shined, as South Carolina outlasted Miami, 24-21, in the Bowl's first ACC-SEC matchup. The nail-biter marked the 11th time in 16 years the I-Bowl had been decided by a TD or less. South Carolina WR Pharoh Cooper earned Offensive MVP honors with nine catches for 170 yards and a TD. Senior QB Dylan Thompson threw for 284 yards and two TDs, while rushing for another score. Defensively, Skai Moore earned Defensive MVP honors with 11 total tackles. For Miami, stud RB Duke Johnson had 183 yards from scrimmage. Senior All-ACC LB Denzel Perryman led the Canes with eight tackles, including one TFL. Coaches: Al Golden – Miami; Steve Spurrier – South Carolina MVPs: (O) Pharoh Cooper, South Carolina; (D) Skai Moore, South Carolina Weather: Cloudy, Rain

South Carolina 0 17 0 7 24

Miami 3 3 8 7 21

SCORING

1st Quarter: MIAMI – (7:56) Michael Badgley 27-yard field goal

2nd Quarter: MIAMI – (13:27) Badgley 26-yard field goal; SOUTH CAROLINA – (7:50) Pharoh Cooper 78-yard pass from Dylan Thompson (Elliott Fry kick); (5:25) Mike Davis 15-yard pass from Thompson (Fry); (1:39) Fry 32-yard field goal

3rd Quarter: MIAMI – (1:43) Gus Edwards 3-yard run (Malcolm Lewis pass from Brad Kaaya)

4th Quarter: SOUTH CAROLINA – (4:13) Dylan Thompson 2-yard run (Fry); MIAMI – (2:16) Phillip Dorsett 11-yard pass from Kaaya (Badgley)

TEAM STATISTICS

SOUTH CAROLINA MIAMI

First Downs 16 21

Rushes-Net Yards 30-60 40-186

Net Yards Passing 284 236

Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 22-34-0 19-33-1

Total Plays 64 73

Total Net Yards 344 422

Fumbles-Lost 2-0 1-1

Penalties-Yards 5-51 5-40

Punts-Average 4-44.8 3-28.3

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

SOUTH CAROLINA: Mike Davis 13-55; Damiere Byrd 2-19; Brandon Wilds 5-3; Pharoh Cooper 3-2; Dylan Thompson 7-(-19)

MIAMI: Duke Johnson 24-132; Gus Edwards 6-25, 1 TD; Joe Yearby 6-20; Stacy Coley 1-16; Brad Kaaya 3-(-7) PASSING

SOUTH CAROLINA: Dylan Thompson 22/34 (64.7%), 284 yards, 2 TD

MIAMI: Brad Kaaya 19/33 (57.6%), 236 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT RECEIVING

SOUTH CAROLINA: Pharoh Cooper 9-170,1 TD; Damiere Byrd 3-51; Nick Jones 3-14; K.J. Brent 2-21; Mike Davis 2-19, 1 TD; Brandon Wilds 2-4; Jerrell Adams 1-5

MIAMI: Duke Johnson 5-51; Phillip Dorsett 5-45, 1 TD; Stacy Coley 4-31; Malcolm Lewis 2-56; Standish Dobard 1-32; Braxton Berrios 1-14; Joe Yearby 1-7

PUNTING

SOUTH CAROLINA: Tyler Hull 4/44.8

MIAMI: Justin Vogel 3/28.3

VIRGINIA TECH - 55 TULSA - 52

December 26, 2015

Attendance: 31,289

40th – The I-Bowl's 40th Anniversary was one of the most memorable. The game featured a wild shootout, with Virginia Tech sneaking past Tulsa, 55-52. Hall of Fame coach Frank Beamer closed out his career with a victory in the very stadium he won his first bowl game 23 years prior. The teams obliterated the I-Bowl record book, combining for the most points (107), TDs (14), rushing TDs (9), yards (1,161), most points scored in a quarter (45), and they even combined for the most points in a half (76) across all bowl-games, all time. VT receiver Isaiah ford set the then I-Bowl record with 227 yards receiving and tied the Bowl record with 12 receptions, being named Offensive MVP. Coaches: Philip Montgomery – Tulsa; Frank Beamer – Virginia Tech MVPs: (O) Isaiah Ford, Virginia Tech; (D) Jeremy Brady, Tulsa

SCORING

1st Quarter: TULSA – (14:14) D’Angelo Brewer 48-yard run (Redford Jones kick); VIRGINIA TECH – (12:53) Travon McMillian 51-yard run (Joey Slye kick); TULSA – (11:54) Zack Langer 2-yard run (Jones); VIRGINIA TECH – (11:42) Isaiah Ford 75-yard pass from Michael Brewer (Slye); (9:53) Slye 27-yard field goal; (5:28) Sam Rogers 14-yard run (Slye); TULSA – (2:19) Bishop Louie 9-yard pass from Dane Evans (Jones) 2nd Quarter: VIRGINIA TECH – (13:09) Bucky Hodges 16-yard run (Slye); (9:09) McMillian 1-yard run (Slye); (7:11) Greg Stroman 67-yard punt return (Slye); TULSA – (2:26) Jones 29-yard field goal; (0:20) Brewer 10 yard run (Jones)

3rd Quarter: VIRGINIA TECH – (7:38) Trey Edmunds 1-yard run (Slye); TULSA – (4:11) Evans 9-yard run (Jones kick failed) 4th Quarter: VIRGINIA TECH – (11:09) Slye 41-yard field goal; TULSA – (7:35) Josh Atkinson 21-yard pass from Evans (Keyarris Garrett pass from Evans); (3:47) Garrett 36-yard pass from Evans (Jones)

TEAM STATISTICS

VIRGINIA TECH TULSA

First Downs 30 27

Rushes-Net Yards 43-254 39-189

Net Yards Passing 344 374 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 23-38-1 27-44-0

Total Plays 81 83

Total Net Yards 598 563

Fumbles-Lost 1-1 1-0

Penalties-Yards 5-40 6-44

Punts-Average 4-40.2 7-45.3

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

VIRGINIA TECH: Travon McMillian 16-82, 2 TD; J.C. Coleman 8-78; Sam Rogers 6-33, 1 TD; Bucky Hodges 5-27, 1 TD; Isaiah Ford 3-23; Trey Edmunds 2-11, 1 TD

TULSA: D’Angelo Brewer 14-105, 2 TD; Zack Langer 8-63, 1 TD; Dane Evans 12-18, 1 TD; Ramadi Warren 4-8; Conner Floyd 1-(-5) PASSING

VIRGINIA TECH: Michael Brewer 23/37 (62.2%), 344 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT; Sam Rogers 0-1

TULSA: Dane Evans 27/44 (61.4%), 374 yards, 3 TD

RECEIVING

VIRGINIA TECH: Isaiah Ford 12-227, 1 TD; Bucky Hodges 4-38; Cam Phillips 3-33; Sam Rogers 2-23; Ryan Malleck 1-12; J.C. Coleman 1-11

TULSA: Josh Atkinson 11-139, 1 TD; Keyarris Garrett 8-137, 1 TD; Justin Hobbs 3-35; Nigel Carter 1-25; Conner Floyd 1-20; Bishop Louie 1-9, 1 TD; Mandel Dixon Jr. 1-5; D’Angelo Brewer 1-4

PUNTING

VIRGINIA TECH: A.J. Hughes 4/40.2

TULSA: Dalton Parks 5/43.8; Dane Evans 2/49.0

SCORE BY QUARTERS

Game-by-Game results

NC STATE - 41 VANDERBILT - 17

December 26, 2016

Attendance: 28,995

41st – The 41st edition pitted two firsttime participants, as NC State topped Vanderbilt. NC State offensive weapon Jaylen Samuels caught six passes for 104 yards and set the I-Bowl record with three receiving TDs. The Wolfpack defense harassed Vanderbilt’s Kyle Shurmur, recording three interceptions and racking up five sacks. Linebacker Airius Moore led the charge, totaling nine tackles, two sacks, two quarterback hurries and two passes defended. Nyheim Hines sealed the victory with a 100-yard kickoff return TD, tying an I-Bowl record set in 1995 by Michigan State’s Derrick Mason.

Coaches: Dave Doeren – NC State; Derek Mason – Vanderbilt MVPs: (O) Jaylen Samuels, NC State; (D) Airius Moore, NC State

SCORING

1st Quarter: VANDERBILT – (6:06) Tommy Openshaw 52-yard field goal

2nd Quarter: NC STATE – (9:08) Jaylen Samuels 9-yard pass from Ryan Finley (Connor Haskins kick); (1:24) Samuels 55-yard pass from Finley (Haskins)

3rd Quarter: NC STATE – (11:50) Reggie Gallaspy 5-yard run (Haskins); (5:34) Samuels 17-yard pass from Finley (Haskins kick); VANDERBILT – (0:58) Ralph Webb 30-yard run (Openshaw kick)

4th Quarter: VANDERBILT – (10:37) Khari Blasingame 1-yard run (Openshaw); NC STATE – (10:21) Nyheim Hines 100-yard kickoff return (Haskins); (0:00) Niles Clark 32-yard interception return

TEAM STATISTICS NC STATE VANDERBILT

First Downs 21 18

Rushes-Net Yards 36-141 35-156

Net Yards Passing 235 158 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 19-31-0 19-46-3

Total Plays 67 81

Total Net Yards 376 314

Fumbles-Lost 1-1 1-0

Penalties-Yards 1-5 4-40

Punts-Average 5-37.8 4-48.2

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

NC STATE: Matthew Dayes 9-47; Reggie Gallaspy 11-26, 1 TD; Ryan Finley 4-24; Dakwa Nichols 2-15; Jalan McClendon 4-10; Jaylen Samuels 2-9; Nyheim Hines 1-4; Stephen Louis 1-3; Brady Bodine 2-3

VANDERBILT: Ralph Webb 21-111, 1 TD; Trent Sherfield 1-45; Darrius Sims 3-7; Kalija Lipscomb 1-4; Khari Blasingame 2-2, 1 TD; Kyle Shurmur 7-(-13)

PASSING

NC STATE: Ryan Finley 19/30 (63.3%), 235 yards 3 TD; Jalan McClendon 0/1

VANDERBILT: Kyle Shurmur 19/46 (41.3%), 158 yards, 0 TD, 3 INT

RECEIVING

NC STATE: Jaylen Samuels 6-104, 3 TD; Nyheim Hines 6-69; Stephen Louis 2-21; Reggie Gallaspy 2-0; Bra’Lon Cherry 1-24; Matthew Dayes 1-13; Kelvin Harmon 1-4

VANDERBILT: C.J. Duncan 6-47; Caleb Scott 4-49; Trent Sherfield 3-24; Kalija Lipscomb 2-13; Ralph Webb 2-13; Latevius Rayford 1-10; Sam Dobbs 1-2

PUNTING

NC STATE: A.J. Cole 5/37.8

VANDERBILT: Sam Loy 4/48.2

FLORIDA STATE - 42 SOUTHERN MISS - 13

December 27, 2017

Attendance: 33,601

42nd – The 42nd I-Bowl saw first-time participants Florida State hand Southern Miss their first I-Bowl defeat in three tries. The Golden Eagles a 6-0 lead but were outscored 42-7 the rest of the way. FSU freshman QB James Blackman threw an I-Bowl record four TD passes. Three of Blackman’s four TDs found WR Auden Tate, tying the I-Bowl record for receiving TDs set by NC State’s Jaylen Samuels in 2016. FSU's defense allowed just 260 yards and 12 first downs on 55 plays. FSU’s 29-point margin of victory is the second largest in I-Bowl history, trailing only Ohio’s 45-14 victory over ULM in 2012. Coaches: Odell Haggins – Florida State; Jay Hopson – Southern Miss MVPs: (O) James Blackman, FSU; (D) Nate Andrews, FSU

SCORING

1st Quarter: USM – (11:05) Kwadra Griggs 5-yard run (Parker Shaunfield kick failed); FSU – (5:20)Auden Tate 20-yard pass from James Blackman (Ricky Aguayo kick)

2nd Quarter: FSU – (12:38) Cam Akers 14-yard pass from Blackman (Aguayo kick failed); (7:48) Aguayo 29-yard field goal; (1:33) Tate 10-yard pass from Blackman (Aguayo)

3rd Quarter: FSU – (10:45) Aguayo 39-yard field goal; (3:25) Jacques Patrick 2-yard run (Aguayo); USM – (0:44) Korey Robertson 13-yard pass from Griggs (Shaunfield)

4th Quarter: FSU – (13:34) Tate 17-yard pass from Blackman (Aguayo rush fumbled); (7:32) Aguayo 39-yard field goal

TEAM STATISTICS FLORIDA STATE SOUTHERN MISS First Downs 25 12

Rushes-Net Yards 45-214 28-131

Net Yards Passing 238 129 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 19-29-0 15-27-0

Total Plays 74 55

Total Net Yards 452 260

Fumbles-Lost 0-0 1-1

Penalties-Yards 6-60 7-44

Punts-Average 1-38.0 4-41.2

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

FSU: Cam Akers 13-94; Jacques Patrick 16-61, 1 TD; James Blackman 6-29; Amir Rasul 7-25; Colton Plante 1-6; J.J. Cosentino 1-2; Gabe Nabers 1-(-3)

USM: Ito Smith 16-92; Kwadra Griggs 8-39, 1 TD; Allenzae Staggers 1-4; Jaylond Adams 1-2; Tez Parks 2-(-6)

PASSING

FSU: James Blackman 18/26 (69.2%), 233 yards, 4 TD; J.J. Cosentino 1/3 (33.3%), 5 yards

USM: Kwadra Griggs 13/25 (52%), 86 yards, 1 TD; Allenzae Staggers 1/1, 18 yards; Zac Everett 1/1, 25 yards

RECEIVING

FSU: Ryan Izzo 6-59; Auden Tate 5-84, 3 TD; D.J. Matthews 3-37; Jacques Patrick 2-26; Cam Akers 1-14, 1 TD; Keith Gavin 1-13; Amir Rasul 1-5

USM: Korey Robertson 4-36, 1 TD; Ito Smith 4-26; Jaylond Adams 2-22; Allen Fails, Jr. 1-25; Kwadra Griggs 1-18; Allenzae Staggers 1-2; Jay’Shaw Washington 1-1; Tez Parks 1-(-1)

PUNTING

FSU: Logan Tyler 1/38.0

USM: Zac Everett 4/41.2

SCORE

Game-by-Game results

DUKE - 56 TEMPLE - 27

December 27, 2018

Attendance: 27,492

43rd – Despite trailing by double digits twice in the first half, Duke beat Temple, 56-27, behind record-setting days from QB Daniel Jones and WR T.J. Rahming. Temple safety and Defensive MVP Delvon Randall returned an interception for a TD, helping the Owls to a 27-21 halftime lead, but Duke scored an I-Bowl record 35 secondhalf points to set the record for most points in an I-Bowl (56) and secure David Cutcliffe’s fourth I-Bowl victory. Jones, the Offensive MVP, set I-Bowl records for passing yards (423), passing TDs (5) and total TDs (6), while Rahming set the record for receiving yards (240) and broke Kevin Faulk’s record for all-purpose yards (286). Coaches: David Cutcliffe – Duke; Ed Foley – Temple MVPs: (O) Daniel Jones, Duke; (D) Delvon Randall, Temple

LOUISIANA TECH - 14

MIAMI - 0

December 26, 2019

Attendance: 33,192 44th – In a game that featured more combined punts than points scored, Louisiana Tech defeated Miami 14-0 in the 44th Independence Bowl. The teams combined for an I-Bowl record 18 punts for 751 yards, while the two offenses managed just 564 combined yards of total offense. With nine punts each, both punters, Miami’s Lou Hedley and Tech’s Brady Farlow, set a new I-Bowl record. The lone score through 58 minutes of the game came on a 26-yard pass from La. Tech QB J’Mar Smith to RB Israel Tucker at the 9:34 mark of the second quarter. The Bulldogs put the game away late when Smith plowed his way into the end zone with 1:15 remaining in the game to make it a 14-0 game. La. Tech’s 14-0 victory was the first shutout in the 44-year history of the Bowl. The 14-combined points are secondfewest in bowl history, just ahead of the 12 points in Air Force’s 9-3 win over Ole Miss in 1983.

SCORING

1st Quarter: DUKE – (10:36) Quentin Harris 2-yard run (Collin Wareham kick); TEMPLE – (8:43) Anthony Russo 15-yard run (Will Mobley kick); (5:42) Delvon Randall 52-yard interception return (Mobley kick failed)

2nd Quarter: TEMPLE – (10:25) Rob Ritrovato 1-yard run (Mobley); DUKE – (7:42) Chris Taylor 34-yard pass from Daniel Jones (Wareham); TEMPLE – (4:26) Brodrick Yancy 8-yard pass from Russo (Mobley); DUKE – (1:11) T.J. Rahming 22-yard pass from Jones (Wareham)

3rd Quarter: DUKE – (11:06) Jones 1-yard run (Wareham); (7:28) Rahming 85-yard pass from Jones (Wareham); (2:49) Jake Bobo 7-yard pass from Jones (Wareham)

4th Quarter: DUKE – (14:55) Brittain Brown 4-yard run (Wareham); (10:16) Davis Koppenhaver 4-yard pass from Jones (Wareham)

TEAM STATISTICS DUKE TEMPLE

First Downs 22 19

Rushes-Net Yards 39-123 29-53

Net Yards Passing 440 228

Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 32-44-3 25-46-1

Total Plays 83 75

Total Net Yards 563 281

Fumbles-Lost 1-0 2-1

Penalties-Yards 4-30 3-35

Punts-Average 3-40.7 5-43.2

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

DUKE: Deon Jackson 10-41; Brittain Brown 5-19, 1 TD; Gunnar Holmberg 1-19; T.J. Rahming 2-17; Quentin Harris 6-16, 1 TD; Elijah Deveaux 3-7; Mataeo Durant 3-4; Griffin Carter 2-3; Ryan Wolitzer 1-3; Daniel Jones 6-(-6), 1 TD

TEMPLE: Jager Gardner 7-34; Rob Ritrovato 8-15, 1 TD; Anthony Russo 7-12, 1 TD; Jeremy Jennings 6-12 PASSING

DUKE: Daniel Jones 30/41 (73.2%), 423 yards, 5 TD, 2 INT; Quentin Harris 2/3 (66.7%), 17 yards, 1 INT

TEMPLE: Anthony Russo 25/46 (54.3%), 228 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT

RECEIVING

DUKE: T.J. Rahming 12-240, 2 TD; Jonathan Lloyd 5-47; Daniel Helm 4-23; Chris Taylor 3-56, 1 TD; Deon Jackson 2-7; Quentin Harris 1-24; Damond Philyaw-Johnson 1-20; Jake Bobo 1-7, 1 TD; Noah Gray 1-6; Daniel Jones 1-6; Davis Koppenhaver 1-4, 1 TD

TEMPLE: Brodrick Yancy 5-57, 1 TD; Ventell Bryant 4-31; Branden Mack 3-45; Sean Ryan 3-44; Randle Jones 2-17; Kenny Yeboah 2-11; Chris Myarick 2-10; Travon Williams 1-13; Jager Gardner 1-3; Rob Ritrovato 1-(-1); Freddie Johnson 1-(-2)

PUNTING

DUKE: Austin Parker 2/41.5; Jackson Hubbard 1/39

TEMPLE: Connor Bowler: 5/43.2

Coaches: Skip Holtz – Louisiana Tech; Manny Diaz – Miami

MVPs: (O) Justin Henderson, La Tech; (D) Connor Taylor, La Tech

Weather: Partly cloudy, 71 degrees

SCORING

2nd Quarter: LOUISIANA TECH – (9:34) Israel Tucker 26-yard pass from J’Mar Smith (Bailey Hale kick)

4th Quarter: LOUISIANA TECH – (1:15) Smith 8-yard run (Hale)

TEAM STATISTICS LOUISIANA TECH MIAMI First Downs 18 15

Rushes-Net Yards 40-174 28-74

Net Yards Passing 163 153 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 13-28-1 15-34-2

Total Plays 68 62

Total Net Yards 337 227

Fumbles-Lost 2-0 1-1

Penalties-Yards 5-49 7-65

Punts-Average 9-42.2 9-41.2

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

LOUISIANA TECH: Justin Henderson 22-95; J’Mar Smith 10-34, 1 TD; Smoke Harris 2-18; Wayne Toussant 1-14; Israel Tucker 5-13

MIAMI: Cam’Ron Harris 12-31; N’Kosi Perry 3-19; Jarren Williams 6-14; Tate Martell 5-5; K.J. Osborn 1-4; Robert Burns 1-1 PASSING

LOUISIANA TECH: J’Mar Smith 13/28 (46.4%), 163 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT

MIAMI: Jarren Williams 9/20 (45%), 94 yards, 1 INT; N’Kosi Perry 5/13 (38.5%), 52 yards, 1 TD; Tate Martell 1/1, 7 yards

RECEIVING

LOUISIANA TECH: Malik Stanley 3-75; Justin Henderson 3-4; Griffin Hebert 2-26; Isaiah Graham 2-15; Israel Tucker 1-26, 1 TD; Adrian Hardy 1-9; Bobby Holly 1-8

MIAMI: K.J. Osborn 5-56; Will Mallory 4-42; Mark Pope 3-23; Dee Wiggins 1-12; Michael Parrott 1-11; Cam’Ron Harris 1-9

PUNTING

LOUISIANA TECH: Brady Farlow 9/42.2

MIAMI: Louis Hedley 9/41.2

UAB - 31

BYU - 28

December 18, 2021

Attendance: 26,276

Game-by-Game results

45th – On a rainy and windy Saturday, the game's 45th edition turned in one of its finest in a back-and-forth battle between UAB and BYU. In what was one of the biggest victories in program history, UAB defeated No. 13 BYU, the highest-ranked team in I-Bowl history, to earn their second bowl win in program history and first Independence Bowl victory. Two of the top backs in the nation dueled, as UAB’s DeWayne McBride finished with 28 carries for 183 yards and one TD. BYU’s Tyler Allgeier compiled 192 yards and three TDs on 27 carries. UAB QB Dylan Hopkins completed an I-Bowl record 83 percent of his passes for 183 yards and three passing TDs.

Coaches: Bill Clark – UAB; Kalani Sitake – BYU

MVPs: (O) Tyler Allgeier, BYU; (D) Tyler Batty, BYU Weather: Rain, 58 degrees

SCORING

1st Quarter: UAB – (6:26) Gerrit Prince 10-yard pass from Dylan Hopkins (Matt Quinn kick); (1:02) DeWayne McBride 64-yard rush (Quinn)

2nd Quarter: BYU – (12:48) Tyler Allgeier 1-yard rush (Jake Oldroyd kick); (8:19) Samson Nacua 2-yard rush (Oldroyd); UAB – (3:18)

Prince 23-yard pass from Hopkins (Quinn)

3rd Quarter: BYU – (13:43) Allgeier 62-yard rush (Oldroyd); UAB –(7:27) Quinn 38-yard field goal

4th Quarter: BYU – (14:33) Allgeier 1-yard rush (Oldroyd); UAB –(6:17) Trea Shropshire 14-yard pass from Hopkins (Quinn)

TEAM STATISTICS

UAB BYU

First Downs 23 17

Rushes-Net Yards 43-223 35-199

Net Yards Passing 189 195

Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 19-23-1 15-23-0

Total Plays 66 58

Total Net Yards 412 394

Fumbles-Lost 1-0 2-1

Penalties-Yards 3-17 2-10

Punts-Average 2-38.0 1-43.0

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

UAB: DeWayne McBride 28-183, 1 TD; Jermaine Brown Jr. 8-48; Dylan Hopkins 5-(1-5)

BYU: Tyler Allgeier 27-192, 3 TD; Puka Nacua 1-20; Samson Nacua 1-2, 1 TD; Masen Wake 1-0; Baylor Romney 3-(-1); Gunner Romney 1-(-7); Miles Davis 1-(-7) PASSING

UAB: Dylan Hopkins 19-23 (82.6%), 189 yards, 3 TD, 1 INT

BYU: Baylor Romney 15-23 (65.2%), 195 yards, 0 TD, 0 INT RECEIVING

UAB: Gerrit Prince 4-43, 2 TD; Ryan Davis 3-50; Tejhaun Palmer 3-48; Hayden Pittman 3-9; Trea Shropshire 2-21, 1 TD; Jermain Brown Jr. 2-18; TJ Jones 2-0

BYU: Gunner Romney 3-55; Masen Wake 3-55; Samson Nacua 3-41; Dallin Holker 2-17; Tyler Allgeier 2-12; Puka Nacua 1-9; Keanu Hill 1-6

PUNTING

UAB: Kyle Greenwell 2/38.0

BYU: Ryan Rehkow 1/43.0

HOUSTON - 23 LOUISIANA - 16

December 23, 2022

Attendance: 23,410 46th – In the coldest I-Bowl in its 46-year history, Houston’s Clayton Tune threw a 12-yard TD pass to Nathaniel "Tank" Dell with 20 seconds left to gave Houston its only lead of the game and the gamewinning points in a victory over Louisiana. The Ragin’ Cajuns held a 13-point halftime lead but were shutout in the second half, as Houston closed the game on a 17-0 run. The Cougars shook off the 24-degree weather to score on their first and last drive of the second half. Tune led the Cougars on a 92-yard TD drive and made his final collegiate pass count, finding Dell for the gamewinning score.

Coaches: Dana Holgorsen – Houston; Michael Desormeaux – Louisiana

MVPs: (O) Clayton Tune, Houston; (D) Art Green, Houston

Weather: Sunny, 24 degrees

SCORING

1st Quarter: LOUISIANA – (7:39) Johnny Lumpkin 4-yard pass from Chandler Fields (Kenneth Almendares kick)

2nd Quarter: LOUISIANA – (9:35) Almendares 42-yard field goal; (7:05) Almendares 42-yard field goal; HOUSTON – (3:00) KeSean Carter 33-yard pass from Clayton Tune (Kyle Ramsey kick); LOUISIANA – (0:02) Almendares 32-yard field goal

3rd Quarter: HOUSTON – (9:21) Tank Dell 2-yard pass from Tune (Ramsey) 4th Quarter: HOUSTON – (13:40) Ramsey 19-yard field goal; (0:20) Dell 12-yard pass from Tune (Ramsey)

TEAM STATISTICS

HOUSTON LOUISIANA

First Downs 22 21

Rushes-Net Yards 38-134 33-129

Net Yards Passing 229 194

Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 18-27-0 21-31-1

Total Plays 65 64

Total Net Yards 363 323

Fumbles-Lost 1-0 3-2

Penalties-Yards 7-61 5-64

Punts-Average 3-33.3 3-29.3

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

LOUISIANA: Chris Smith 14-48; Chandler Fields 6-32; Zeon Chriss 4-26; Dre’lyn Washington 3-11; Terrence Williams 5-8; Peter LeBlanc 1-4

HOUSTON: Clayton Tune 11-55; Ta’Zhawn Henry 13-41; Brandon Campbell 7-26; Stacy Sneed 6-12 PASSING

LOUISIANA: Chandler Fields 17-25 (68%), 169 yards, 1 TD; Zeon Chriss 4-6 (66.7%), 25 yards, 0 TD, 1 INT

HOUSTON: Clayton Tune 18-27 (66.7%), 229 yards, 3 TD

RECEIVING

LOUISIANA: Lance LeGendre 5-56; John Stephens 3-47; Neal Johnson 3-19; Errol Rogers, Jr. 2-21; Pearse Migl 2-15; Johnny Lumpkin 2-14, 1 TD; Terrence Williams 2-3; Dalen Cambre 1-15; Chris Smith 1-4

HOUSTON: Tank Dell 6-44, 2 TD; Joseph Manjack IV 4-35; KeSean Carter 3-104, 1 TD; Matthew Golden 2-17; Ta’Zhawn Henry 1-14; Matt Byrnes 1-13; Stacy Sneed 1-2

PUNTING

LOUISIANA: Rhys Byrns 3/29.3

HOUSTON: Laine Wilkins 3/33.3

SCORE BY QUARTERS

TEXAS TECH - 34

CALIFORNIA - 14

December 16, 2023

Attendance: 33,071

Game-by-Game results

47th – The third time was the charm, as Texas Tech defeated Cal 34-14 in the 47th Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl – earning their first I-Bowl victory in their third appearance. Cal recovered a fumble on the game's opening kickoff and scored on their first offensive play – recording the fastest TD in I-Bowl history. The Red Raiders dominated the final three frames – scoring 27 unanswered after trailing 14-7 in the first. Tech's defense forced four turnovers, including three interceptions of Cal's Fernando Mendoza, and used three first-half TD passes from the Offensive MVP, QB Behren Morton, to stride to victory. Morton finished the night with 256 yards passing and three TDs.

Coaches: Joey McGuire – Texas Tech; Justin Wilcox – California MVPs: (O) Behren Morton, Texas Tech; (D) Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech

SCORING

1st Quarter: CAL – (14:45) Monroe Young 25-yard pass from Fernando Mendoza (Mateen Bhaghani kick); TEXAS TECH – (4:19) Coy Eakin 8-yard pass from Behren Morton (Gino Garcia kick); CAL – (2:38) Jaydn Ott 1-yard rush (Bhaghani)

2nd Quarter: TEXAS TECH – (12:16) Mason Tharp 15-yard pass from Morton (Garcia); (9:49) Loic Fouonji 14-yard pass from Morton (Garcia); (0:03) Garcia 25-yard field goal

3rd Quarter: TEXAS TECH – (4:36) Tahj Brooks 7-yard rush (Garcia) 4th Quarter: TEXAS TECH – (4:08) Garcia 37-yard field goal

TEAM STATISTICS TEXAS TECH CALIFORNIA

First Downs 24 15

Rushes-Net Yards 37-124 32-73

Net Yards Passing 259 261 Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 27-44-1 22-33-3

Total Plays 81 65

Total Net Yards 384 334

Fumbles-Lost 1-1 3-1

Penalties-Yards 3-15 7-55

Punts-Average 5-44.6 6-35.7

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

TEXAS TECH: Tahj Brooks 22-95, 1 TD; Cam'Ron Valdez 12-36; Behren Morton 3-(-6)

CALIFORNIA: Jaydn Ott 17-55, 1 TD; Monroe Young 1-13; Fernando Mendoza 11-12; Justin Williams-Thomas 1(-1) PASSING

TEXAS TECH: Behren Morton 27-43 (62.8%), 259 yards, 3 TD, 1 INT; Coy Eakin 0-1

CALIFORNIA: Fernando Mendoza 22-33 (66.7%), 261 yards, 1 TD, 3 INT RECEIVING

TEXAS TECH: Coy Eakin 7-106, 1 TD; Xavier White 5-61; Tahj Brooks 5-0; Brady Boyd 3-37; Mason Tharp 3-22, 1 TD; Drae McCray 3-19; Loic Fouonji 1-14, 1 TD

CALIFORNIA: Monroe Young 6-69, 1 TD; Jeremiah Hunter 5-62; Trond Grizzell 4-80; Jaydn Ott 4-28; Jack Endries 3-22 PUNTING

TEXAS TECH: Austin McNamara 5/44.6

CALIFORNIA: Lachlan Wilson 6/35.7

ARMY - 27 LOUISIANA TECH - 6

December 28, 2024

Attendance: 34,283

48th – No. 19/22 (AP/CFP) Army West Point scored on their first drive and never looked back – defeating Louisiana Tech, 27-6, in front of 34,283 fans in Independence Stadium. Army scored on their first three drives of the game – including an Independence Bowl record 21play, 75-yard drive that spanned 12 minutes and 21 seconds in the second quarter and ended with a touchdown run by QB Bryson Daily, the eventual Offensive Player of the Game. The Black Knights continued to add to their 21-3 halftime lead in the third quarter with Daily’s 32nd rushing touchdown of the season –earning him the all-time NCAA record for rushing touchdowns in a season by a quarterback. Daily broke Navy quarterback Keenan Reynolds’ record of 31 – set in 2013. Army’s defense was stout all night, holding the Bulldogs to just six points – the fourth-fewest in Independence Bowl history. Louisiana Tech’s 219 total yards are the fifth-fewest in Independence Bowl history, and their 50 plays are the second-fewest in Independence Bowl history.

Coaches: Jeff Monken – Army; Sonny Cumbie – Louisiana Tech MVPs: (O) Bryson Daily, Army; (D) Kalib Fortner, Army

SCORING

1st Quarter: ARMY – (9:32) Bryson Daily 15-yard rush (Trey Gronotte kick); (1:28) Hayden Reed 12-yard rush (Gronotte)

2nd Quarter: LOUISIANA TECH – (14:15) Drew Henderson 27-yard field goal; ARMY – (1:54) Daily 8-yard rush (Gronnotte)

3rd Quarter: LOUISIANA TECH – (2:11) Henderson 44-yard field goal

4th Quarter: ARMY – (14:56) Daily 3-yard rush (Reed rush failed)

TEAM STATISTICS ARMY LOUISIANA TECH

First Downs 26 11

Rushes-Net Yards 64-321 22-49

Net Yards Passing 65 169

Passing (Comp-Att-Int) 2-9-0 14-28-1

Total Plays 73 50

Total Net Yards 386 218

Fumbles-Lost 1-1 0-0

Penalties-Yards 1-15 5-50

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

ARMY: Bryson Daily 27-127, 3 TD; Hayden Reed 20-114, 1 TD; Noah Short 5-27; Tyrell Robinson 4-25; Carson Smith 5-21; Jake Rendina 1-6; Miles Stewart 1-2

LOUISIANA TECH: Omiri Wiggins 8-40; Marquis Crosby 4-10; Fred Robertson 2-5; Amani Givens 3-2; Jimmy Holiday 1-1; Tru Edwards 1-1; Evan Bullock 3-(-10)

PASSING

ARMY: Bryson Daily 2-9 (22.2%), 65 yards

LOUISIANA TECH: Evan Bullock 14-28 (50.0%), 169 yards, 0 TD, 1 INT

RECEIVING

ARMY: David Crossan 1-52; Casey Reynolds 1-13

LOUISIANA TECH: Tru Edwards 8-92; Eli Finley 2-35; Abdul-Fatai Ibrahim 2-27; Jimmy Holiday 2-15

PUNTING

LOUISIANA TECH: Patrick Rea 3/47.7 SCORE BY QUARTERS 1ST 2ND 3RD 4TH FINAL Army 14 7 0 6 27 Louisiana Tech 0 3 3 0 6

Offensive Players of the Game

Bryson Daily (Army, 2024)

Kevin Faulk (LSU, 1995)

Defensive Players of the Game

Kalib Fortner (Army, 2024)

Daniel Jones (Duke, 2018)

Participant Major Award Winners

Doak Walker Award

Presented for the first time in 1990 to honor the nation’s best RB among FBS juniors or seniors who combine outstanding achievements on the field, in the classroom and in the community. Sponsored by the GTE-Southern Methodist Athletic Forum in Dallas, Texas, a $10,000 scholarship is donated to the recipient’s university in his name. The award is named after Doak Walker, SMU’s three-time consensus All-America halfback and 1948 Heisman Trophy winner.

1990

1992

Greg Lewis, Washington

Garrison Hearst, Georgia

2013* Andre Williams, Boston College

Maxwell Award

First presented in 1937 to honor the nation’s outstanding college football player by the Maxwell Memorial Football Club of Philadelphia. The award is named after Robert “Tiny” Maxwell, a Philadelphia native who played at the University of Chicago near the turn of the century.

2003 Eli Manning, Ole Miss

Walter Camp Award

First presented in 1967 to honor the nation’s outstanding college football player by the Walter Camp Foundation in balloting by FBS coaches and SIDs. The award is named after Walter Camp, one of the founders of modern American football.

2000

Josh Heupel, Oklahoma

Butkus Award

First presented in 1985 to honor the nation’s best collegiate linebacker by the Downtown Athletic Club of Orlando. The award is named after Dick Butkus, two-time consensus All-American at Illinois and six-time all-pro LB with the Chicago Bears.

2001 Rocky Calmus, Oklahoma

2009 Rolando McClain, Alabama

2010

Von Miller, Texas A&M

Jim Thorpe Award

First presented in 1986 to honor the nation’s best defensive back by the Jim Thorpe Athletic Club of Oklahoma City. The award is named after Jim Thorpe, Olympic champion, two-time consensus All-American halfback at Carlisle and professional football player.

2001 Roy Williams, Oklahoma

Bronko Nagurski Award

First presented in 1993 to honor the nation’s top collegiate defensive player by the FWAA and the Charlotte Touchdown Club. The award is named after Bronko Nagurski, consensus All-America tackle and running back at Minnesota in 1929, and a member of both the College Football Hall of Fame and Pro Football Hall of Fame.

2001 Roy Williams, Oklahoma 2014 Scooby Wright III, Arizona

2017 Bradley Chubb, NC State

Dave Rimington Trophy

First presented in 2000 to honor the best center in college football, it is a member of the National College Football Awards Association. The trophy, named after Nebraska center Dave Rimington (1979-82), it serves as a fundraiser for the Boomer Esiason Foundation’s fight against cystic fibrosis.

2018

Garrett Bradbury, NC State

Chuck Bednarik Award

Presented annually to the top defensive player in the nation, as voted on by the Maxwell Football Club. Voters for the Maxwell College Awards are NCAA Head College Football Coaches, members of the Maxwell Football Club & sportswriters and sportscasters from across the country. The award was first presented in 1995.

2014

Scooby Wright III, Arizona

Rotary Lombardi Award

The Rotary Lombardi Award is hosted by the Rotary Club of Houston and benefits the American Cancer Society. The Award was initiated by the Rotary Club in 1970 shortly after the death of Vince Lombardi to cancer. The Rotary Lombardi Award goes annually to the college football lineman who, in addition to outstanding performance and ability, best exemplifies the discipline of Vince Lombardi.

2014

Scooby Wright III, Arizona

Outland Trophy

Honoring the outstanding interior lineman in the nation, first presented in 1946 by the FWAA. The award is named for its benefactor, Dr. John H. Outland.

1984*

1987

2008

Bruce Smith, Virginia Tech

Chad Hennings, Air Force

Andre Smith, Alabama

Participant Major Award Winners

Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award

First presented in 1987 to honor the nation’s top senior QB by NFF's Kentucky chapter and College Football Hall of Fame. The committee composed of NFL executives, coaches, scouts, and media members selects the winner based on citizenship, scholarship, leadership and athletic accomplishments. The award is named after Pro Football Hall of Famer Johnny Unitas.

2003 Eli Manning, Ole Miss

John Mackey Award

First presented in 2000 and is awarded by Nassau County Sports Commission to honor the nation’s top tight end. The award is named after former Syracuse and NFL star John Mackey.

2008 Chase Coffman, Missouri

Ray Guy Award

First presented in 2000 by the Greater Augusta Sports Council to honor the nation’s top punter. The award is named after Ray Guy, a former All-American at Southern Miss and an all-pro for the Oakland Raiders.

2008 Matt Fodge, Oklahoma State 2009* Drew Butler, Georgia

Lou Groza Award

Presented for the first time in 1992 to honor the nation’s top collegiate placekicker. Sponsored by the Palm Beach County Sports Authority in conjunction with the Orange Bowl Committee. The award is named after Pro Football Hall of Fame kicker Lou Groza.

1995 Michael Reeder, TCU

2003 Jonathan Nichols, Ole Miss

2024 Kenneth Almendares, Louisiana

Paul Hornung Award

Established in 2010, the Paul Hornung Award is presented annually by the Louisville Sports Commission to “recognize and reward versatile, high-level performers in major college football.” The award is named after College and Pro Football Hall of Famer Paul Hornung, who is considered one of the most versatile players in football history.

2011 Brandon Boykin, Georgia

AFCA Coach of the Year Award

Selected by the American Football Coaches Association and the FWAA.

1983*

1985

Ken Hatfield, Air Force

Fisher DeBerry, Air Force

1999 Frank Beamer, Virginia Tech

2000

Bob Stoops, Oklahoma

2013 David Cutcliffe, Duke

Bobby Dodd Coach of the Year Award

Selected by the American Football Coaches Association and the FWAA. 1983*

Ken Hatfield, Air Force

Fisher DeBerry, Air Force

George Welsh, Virginia

Bob Sutton, Army

Bob Stoops, Oklahoma

Paul Johnson, Navy

Mack Brown, Texas

David Cutcliffe, Duke 2014 Nick Saban, Alabama

Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year Award

Selected by FWAA. Named in honor of legendary Grambling State head coach Eddie Robinson, who coached 408 career victories 1985

Fisher DeBerry, Air Force

Rich Brooks, Oregon

Frank Beamer, Virginia Tech

Bob Stoops, Oklahoma

Nick Saban, LSU

Nick Saban, Alabama

Mike Gundy, Oklahoma State 2018 Bill Clark, UAB

Home Depot Coach of the Year Award

Given annually to the top head coach, as voted on by ESPN and ABC college football analysts.

1994

Rich Brooks, Oregon

Frank Solich, Nebraska

Bob Stoops, Oklahoma

Nick Saban, Alabama

Paul "Bear" Bryant Award

The College Football Coach of the Year Award began in 1957 and was renamed for Coach Bryant in 1986, following his death of a heart attack in 1983. It has since benefited the American Heart Association. The award honors excellence in college football coaching, both on and off the field. 1994

Rich Brooks, Oregon

Frank Beamer, Virginia Tech

Bob Stoops, Oklahoma

Nick Saban, LSU

Mack Brown, Texas

Mike Gundy, Oklahoma State

*Award was earned during season in which he played/coached in the Independence Bowl

List current following the 2024-25 season

Individual records

MOST YARDS BY A QUARTERBACK:

1. Brad Smith (Missouri) 150 2005 vs. South Carolina

2. James Franklin (Missouri) 142 2011 vs. North Carolina

3. Tevin Washington (Georgia Tech) 131 2010 vs. Air Force

4. Bryson Daily (Army) 127 2024 vs. Louisiana Tech

5. Bret Meyer (Iowa State) 122 2004 vs. Miami (OH)

LONGEST RUN FROM SCRIMMAGE:

1. Deuce McAllister (Ole Miss) 80 1999 vs. Oklahoma

2. Rondell Mealey (LSU) 78 1997 vs. Notre Dame

3. Kevin Faulk (LSU) 68 1995 vs. Michigan State

4. DeWayne McBride (UAB) 64 2021 vs. BYU

5. Tyler Allgeier (BYU) 62 2021 vs. UAB

LONGEST RUSHING TOUCHDOWN:

1. Deuce McAllister (Ole Miss) 80 1999 vs. Oklahoma

2. DeWayne McBride (UAB) 64 2021 vs. BYU

3. Tyler Allgeier (BYU) 62 2021 vs. UAB

4. Andre Hastings (Georgia) 53 1991 vs. Arkansas

5. Travon McMillian (Virginia Tech) 51 2015 vs. Tulsa Kevin Faulk (LSU) 51 1995 vs. Michigan State

INDIVIDUAL ALL-PURPOSE YARDS

MOST ATTEMPTS: 1. Jerrod Johnson (Texas A&M) 58 2009 vs. Georgia 2. Josh Heupel (Oklahoma) 53 1999 vs. Ole Miss

3. Mark Young (Ole Miss) 50 1986 vs. Texas Tech 4. Anthony Russo (Temple) 46 2018 vs. Duke Kyle Shurmur (Vanderbilt) 46 2016 vs. NC State MOST COMPLETIONS:

Josh Heupel (Oklahoma) 39 1999 vs. Ole Miss 2. Mark Young (Ole Miss) 31

Bryson Daily (Army, 2024)

Daniel Jones (Duke, 2018)

Individual records

vs.

Josh Heupel (Oklahoma)

1999 vs. Ole Miss

Dane Evans (Tulsa) 374 2015 vs. Virginia Tech 4. Dameyune Craig (Auburn) 372 1996 vs. Army

5. Jerrod Johnson (Texas A&M) 362 2009 vs. Georgia

1. Wade Hill (Arkansas)

2. 10 Players Tied 3 Recent: Fernando Mendoza (Cal) 2023 vs. Texas Tech HIGHEST COMPLETION

(MINIMUM 15 COMPLETIONS):

1. Dylan Hopkins (UAB) 82.6% 2021 vs. BYU

2. Gary Kubiak (Texas A&M) 75.0% 1981 vs. Oklahoma State

3. Josh Heupel (Oklahoma) 73.6% 1999 vs. Ole Miss

4. Daniel Jones (Duke) 73.2% 2018 vs. Temple

5. James Blackman (Florida State) 69.2% 2017 vs. Southern Miss

LOWEST COMPLETION PERCENTAGE (MINIMUM 5 ATTEMPTS):

1. Bryson Daily (Army) 22.2% 2024 vs. Louisiana Tech

2. Terry McFarland (McNeese St.) 26.7% 1976 vs. Tulsa

3. Chad Millet (McNeese State) 29.4% 1979 vs. Syracuse

4. Leander Green (East Carolina) 30.8% 1978 vs. Louisiana Tech

5. Max Knake (TCU) 33.3% 1994 vs. Virginia

MOST YARDS PER COMPLETION (MINIMUM 5 COMPLETIONS):

1. Tyler Tettleton (Ohio) 23.6 2012 vs. ULM

2. Stephan Starring (McNeese St.) 23.2 1980 vs. Southern Miss

3. Chad Millet (McNeese State) 20.5 1979 vs. Syracuse

4. Rodney Williams (Clemson) 17.7 1985 vs. Minnesota

5. Keith West (Wake Forest) 17.5 1992 vs. Oregon

LONGEST PASS:

1. Wright to Stracka (Wisconsin) 87 1982 vs. Kansas State

2. Jones to Rahming (Duke) 85 2018 vs. Temple

3. Thompson to Cooper (South Carolina) 78 2014 vs. Miami (FL) Banks to Muhammed (Michigan St.) 78 1995 vs. LSU

5. Brewer to Ford (Virginia Tech) 75 2015 vs. Tulsa Paci to Lewis (Indiana) 75 1993 vs. Virginia Tech

INDIVIDUAL TOTAL OFFENSE

INDIVIDUAL YARDS FROM SCRIMMAGE

LONGEST PASSING TOUCHDOWN:

1. Wright to Stracka (Wisconsin) 87 1982 vs. Kansas State

2. Jones to Rahming (Duke) 85 2018 vs. Temple

3. Thompson to Cooper (South Carolina) 78 2014 vs. Miami (FL) Banks to Muhammed (Michigan St.) 78 1995 vs. LSU

5. Brewer to Ford (Virginia Tech) 75 2015 vs. Tulsa Paci to Lewis (Indiana) 75 1993 vs. Virginia Tech

T.J. Rahming (Duke, 2018)

TWO-OR-MORE 100-YARD RUSHERS ON SAME TEAM:

Army 2024 vs. Louisiana Tech

Bryson Daily (127 yards)

Hayden Reed (114 yards)

Missouri 2011 vs. North Carolina

James Franklin (142 yards)

Kendial Lawrence (108 yards)

Iowa State 2004 vs. Miami (OH)

Stevie Hicks (159 yards)

Bret Meyer (122 yards)

TWO-OR-MORE 100-YARD RECEIVERS ON SAME TEAM:

Tulsa 2015 vs. Virginia Tech

Josh Atkinson (139 yards)

Keyarris Garrett(137 yards)

Ohio 2012 vs. ULM

Chase Cochran (162 yards)

Tyler Futrell (133 yards)

Auburn 1996 vs. Army

Willie Gosha (132 yards)

Robert Baker (104 yards)

Oregon 1989 vs. Tulsa

Joe Reitzug (121 yards)

Tony Hargain (100 yards)

300-YARD PASSER, 100-YARD RUSHER, 100-YARD RECEIVER ON SAME TEAM:

Tulsa 2015 vs. Virginia Tech

Dane Evans (374 yards passing)

D’Angelo Brewer (105 yards rushing)

Josh Atkinson (139 yards receiving)

Keyarris Garrett (137 yards receiving)

Ohio 2012 vs. ULM

Tyler Tettleton (331 yards passing)

Beau Blankenship (104 yards rushing)

Tyler Futrell (133 yards receiving)

Chase Cochran (162 yards receiving)

200-YARD PASSER, 100-YARD RUSHER, 100-YARD RECEIVER ON SAME TEAM: Arizona 2013 vs. Boston College

B.J. Denker (275 yards passing)

Ka’Deem Carey (169 yards rushing)

Nate Phillips (193 yards receiving)

Iowa State 2001 vs. Alabama

Seneca Wallace (284 yards passing)

Ennis Haywood (125 yards rushing)

Craig Campbell (109 yards receiving)

Wake Forest 1992 vs. Oregon

Keith West (262 yards passing)

John Leach (116 yards rushing)

Todd Dixon (166 yards receiving)

Texas A&M 1981 vs. Oklahoma State

Gary Kubiak (225 yards passing)

Earnest Jackson (123 yards rushing)

Jimmie Williams (118 yards receiving)

200-YARD RUSHER, 100-YARD RECEIVER ON SAME TEAM:

LSU 1995 vs. Michigan State

Kevin Faulk (234 yards rushing)

Individual records

Eddie Kennison (124 yards receiving

MOST POINTS:

1. Beau Blankenship (Ohio) 24

2012 vs. ULM

2. Eight Players Tied 18

Recent: Tyler Allgeier (BYU) 2021 vs. UAB

MOST POINTS RUSHING:

1. Beau Blankenship (Ohio) 24

2012 vs. ULM

2. Bryson Daily (Army) 18

2024 vs. Louisiana Tech

Tyler Allgeier (BYU) 18

2021 vs. UAB

Brad Smith (Missouri) 18

2005 vs. South Carolina

Ja'Mar Toombs (Texas A&M) 18

2000 vs. Mississippi State

Dontae Walker (Mississippi St.) 18

2000 vs. Texas A&M

Troy Jackson (Maryland) 18

1990 vs. Louisiana Tech

MOST POINTS RECEIVING:

1. Auden Tate (Florida State) 18

2017 vs. Southern Miss

Jaylen Samuels (NC State) 18

2016 vs. Vanderbilt

3. 12 Players Tied 12

Recent: Tank Dell (Houston) 2022 vs. Louisiana

MOST TOUCHDOWNS RESPONSIBLE FOR:

1. Daniel Jones (Duke) 6

2018 vs. Temple (5 pass, 1 rush)

2. James Blackman (Florida State) 4

vs. Southern Miss (4 pass)

Evans (Tulsa) 4

vs. Virginia Tech (3 pass, 1 rush)

Blankenship (Ohio) 4

vs. ULM (4 rush)

Delvon Randall (Temple, 2018)

Scoring

Ja'Mar Toombs (Texas A&M, 2000)

Individual records

FUMBLE RETURN TOUCHDOWNS:

Kevin McCullar (Texas Tech) 1 (14 yards) 1998 vs. Ole Miss

Gabe Northern (LSU) 1 (37 yards) 1995 vs. Michigan State

Lawrence Lewis (Virginia Tech) 1 (20 yards) 1993 vs. Indiana

Herman O'Berry (Oregon) 1 (24 yards) 1992 vs. Wake Forest

KICKOFF RETURN TOUCHDOWNS:

Nyheim Hines (NC State) 1 (100 yards) 2016 vs. Vanderbilt

Brandon Boykin (Georgia) 1 (81 yards) 2009 vs. Texas A&M

Phillip Livas (Louisiana Tech) 1 (97 yards) 2008 vs. Northern Illinois

Deuce McAllister (Ole Miss) 1 (43 yards) 1998 vs. Texas Tech

Eddie Kennison (LSU) 1 (92 yards) 1995 vs. Michigan State

Derrick Mason (Michigan St.) 1 (100 yards) 1995 vs. LSU

PUNT RETURN TOUCHDOWNS:

James Henry (Southern Miss) 2 (65, 45 yards) 1988 vs. UTEP

Greg Stroman (Virginia Tech) 1 (67 yards) 2015 vs. Tulsa

Javier Arenas (Alabama) 1 (86 yards) 2006 vs. Oklahoma State

DeJuan Groce (Nebraska) 1 (60 yards) 2002 vs. Ole Miss

Mitchell Price (Tulane) 1 (44 yards) 1987 vs. Washington

Kevin Miller (Louisville) 1 (60 yards) 1977 vs. Louisiana Tech

BLOCKED PUNT RETURNED FOR TOUCHDOWN:

Derrick Williams (Tulsa) 1 (21 yards) 1989 vs. Oregon

BLOCKED FIELD GOAL RETURNED FOR TOUCHDOWN:

Antonio Banks (Virginia Tech) 1 (80 yards) 1993 vs. Indiana

Mel McGowen (Tulsa) 1 (65 yards) 1976 vs. McNeese State

MOST TWO-POINT CONVERSIONS: 1. 13 Players Tied

Recent: Keyarris Garrett (Tulsa) 2015 vs. Virginia Tech

RUSHING, RECEIVING AND RETURN TOUCHDOWN IN THE SAME GAME:

Deuce McAllister (Ole Miss) 1998 vs. Texas Tech 4-yard rush TD 32-yard reception TD 43-yard kickoff return TD

MOST FIELD GOALS: 1. Chris Balseiro (Arkansas) 4 2003 vs. Missouri David Hardy (Texas A&M)

1981 vs. Oklahoma State 3. Six Players Tied 3 Recent: Kenneth Almendares (Louisiana) 2022 vs. Houston MOST PATs: 1. Collin Wareham (Duke)

2018 vs. Temple

Joey Slye (Virginia Tech)

2015 vs. Tulsa

Jake Smith (Arizona)

2013 vs. Boston College

Weller (Ohio)

2012 vs. ULM Andre LaFleur (LSU)

Punting

Deuce McAllister (Ole Miss, 1998)

Phillip Livas (Louisiana tech, 2008)

Field Goals

Patrick Rea (Louisiana Tech, 2024)

5. DeJuan Groce (Nebraska) 60 2002 vs Ole Miss Kevin Miller (Louisville) 60 1977 vs. Louisiana Tech

Individual records

LONGEST PUNT RETURN FOR TD:

1. Javier Arenas (Alabama) 86 2006 vs. Oklahoma State

2. Greg Stroman (Virginia Tech) 67 2015 vs. Tulsa

3. James Henry (Southern Miss) 65 1988 vs. UTEP

4. DeJuan Groce (Nebraska) 60 2002 vs. Ole Miss

5. Kevin Miller (Louisville) 60 1977 vs. Louisiana Tech

MOST KICKOFF RETURNS:

1. Cyrus Gray (Texas A&M) 8 2009 vs. Georgia

2. Willie Hill (Tulsa) 7 1989 vs. Oregon

3. Hugh Charles (Colorado) 6 2007 vs. Alabama Grant Jones (Oklahoma State) 6 2006 vs. Alabama

5. Four Players Tied 5

Recent: Isaiah Wright (Temple) 2018 vs. Duke

MOST KICKOFF RETURN YARDAGE:

1. Cyrus Gray (Texas A&M) 157 2009 vs. Georgia

2. Isaiah Wright (Temple) 148 2018 vs. Duke

3. Derrick Mason (Michigan State) 132 1995 vs. LSU

4. Larry Huntington (Mississippi St.) 128 2000 vs. Texas A&M

5. Carlos Thomas (South Carolina) 127 2005 vs. Missouri

HIGHEST KICK RETURN AVERAGE:

1. Phillip Livas (Louisiana Tech) 97.0 2008 vs. Northern Illinois

2. Jason Davis (Louisiana Tech) 63.0 1990 vs. Maryland

3. Nyheim Hines (NC State)

2016 vs. Vanderbilt 4. Eddie Kennison (LSU)

5. Brandon Boykin (Georgia)

2009 vs. Texas A&M

LONGEST KICKOFF RETURN:

1. Nyheim Hines (NC State) 100 2016 vs. Vanderbilt Derrick Mason (Michigan State) 100 1995 vs. LSU

3. Phillip Livas (Louisiana Tech) 97 2008 vs. Northern Illinois

4. Eddie Kennison (LSU) 92 1995 vs. Michigan State

5. Brandon Boykin (Georgia) 81 2009 vs. Texas A&M

(NC State)

(Michigan State)

3. Phillip Livas (Louisiana Tech) 97 2008 vs. Northern Illinois

4. Eddie Kennison (LSU) 92 1995 vs. Michigan State

5. Brandon Boykin (Georgia) 81 2009 vs. Texas A&M

Interceptions

(Army) 66 1996 vs. Auburn

4. Reshad Jones (Georgia) 59 2009 vs. Texas A&M Ruffin McNeil (East Carolina) 59 1978 vs. Louisiana Tech

Marcus King (Missouri, 2005)

Javier Arenas (Alabama, 2006)

Isaiah Wright (Temple, 2018)

Punt & Kickoff Returns

(Virginia

(Texas

(Texas Tech) 9 1998 vs. Ole Miss

(Oregon)

(Virginia Tech)

(Texas Tech)

(Virginia Tech)

1993 vs. Indiana 2. Mel McGowen (Tulsa) 65 1976 vs. McNeese State

Tackles

Downs & Possession (Continued)

(SINCE

HIGHEST 4TH DOWN CONVERSION RATE (SINCE 1983 – MINIMUM 3 ATTEMPTS):

LOWEST 4TH DOWN CONVERSION RATE (SINCE 1983 – MINIMUM 3 ATTEMPTS):

1. Louisiana Tech

vs. Army

vs. Duke 3. Three Teams Tied

ULM

vs. Ohio

MOST TIME OF POSSESSION:

1. Syracuse 40:53 1979 vs. McNeese

PUNTING

Team records

1. Louisiana

2. McNeese State

5. Two Teams Tied

Scoring Drives

LONGEST SCORING DRIVES (YARDS):

1. Boston College 94 yards (12 plays) 2013 vs. Arizona Syracuse 94 yards (15 plays)

1979 vs. McNeese State

3. Texas Tech 93 yards (10 plays) 2023 vs. California

Miami (FL) 93 yards (10 plays) 2014 vs. South Carolina Arizona 93 yards (8 plays)

2013 vs. Boston College

LONGEST SCORING DRIVES (TIME):

1. Army 12:21 (21 plays, 75 yards) 2024 vs. Louisiana Tech

2. UAB 8:16 (15 plays, 75 yards) 2021 vs. BYU

3. Syracuse 7:41 (15 plays, 94 yards)

1979 vs. McNeese State

4. Ole Miss 7:40 (14 plays, 70 yards) 1999 vs. Oklahoma

5. Virginia Tech 7:22 (15 plays, 81 yards) 2015 vs. Tulsa

MOST PLAYS IN SCORING DRIVES:

1. Army 21 plays (75 yards)

2024 vs. Louisiana Tech

2. Arkansas 18 plays (81 yards)

1991 vs. Georgia

4. Texas Tech 17 plays (76 yards)

1986 vs. Ole Miss

4. Iowa State 16 plays (66 yards)

2004 vs. Miami (OH)

Arkansas 16 plays (88 yards) 2003 vs. Missouri

FASTEST SCORE TO OPEN THE GAME:

1. California 0:15

2023 vs. Texas Tech

2. Tulsa 0:46

2015 vs. Virginia Tech

3. Michigan State 0:47

1995 vs. LSU

4. Iowa State 1:42

2001 vs. Alabama

5. Louisville 1:50

1977 vs. Louisiana Tech

QUICKEST SCORING DRIVES (TIME):

1. Tulsa 0:04 (1 play, 9 yards)

2015 vs. Virginia Tech

Georgia 0:04 (1 play, 2 yards)

2009 vs. Texas A&M

3. California 0:05 (1 play, 25 yards)

2023 vs. Texas Tech

Virginia Tech 0:05 (1 play, 3 yards)

1984 vs. Air Force

4. Texas A&M 0:08 (1 play, 42 yards)

2000 vs. Mississippi State Ole Miss 0:08 (1 play, 33 yards)

1998 vs. Texas Tech

6. Arkansas 0:10 (1 play, 41 yards)

2003 vs. Missouri

7. Virginia Tech 0:12 (1 play, 75 yards)

2015 vs. Tulsa

8. Ole Miss 0:13 (1 play, 80 yards)

1999 vs. Oklahoma

Miscellaneous Records

RECORD OF TEAMS LEADING AT HALFTIME: 36-12 TIES AT HALFTIME:

TO FINISH IN TIE:

GAMES:

Mississippi State 43, Texas A&M 41

Two-Team records

Scoring (Continued)

Two-Team records

Penalties

Downs

College & Pro Football Hall of Famers

Some of football’s best players and coaches have participated in the Independence Bowl during it’s first 48 years, including the 28 College Football Hall of Famers and six Pro Football Hall of Famers listed below. Nick Saban (Michigan State, 1995 and Alabama, 2007) and Terrence Metcalf (Ole Miss, 1999) are the latest editions to the College Football Hall of Fame as members of the Class of 2025.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL HALL OF FAMERS

PRO FOOTBALL HALL OF FAMERS

First Round NFL Draft Picks

Over the first 48 years of the Independence Bowl, 74 Independence Bowl alumni have been drafted in the first round of the NFL Draft – including two players who were drafted first overall (Bruce Smith in 1985 and Eli Manning in 2004).

Hall of Honor

The Independence Bowl Foundation Hall of Honor is comprised of players and coaches who have exemplified positive character both on and off the field, and who participated in the Independence Bowl at some point in the game’s 48-year history. The first class of inductees was honored in 1996.

Carl Mikovich Sportsperson of the Year

2025 RECIPIENT: LSU SHREVEPORT PILOTS BASEBALL

The Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl annually awards the Carl Mikovich Sportsperson of the Year Award to some of the greatest athletes and sports figures from the local area who shine a light on Shreveport-Bossier City through their contributions on and off the field, and the 2025 recipients of the award exemplify the very spirit of the award – the LSU Shreveport baseball team.

"Our program is extremely honored to receive yet another award for our amazing success this past year. Being named the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl's Carl Mikovich Sportsperson of the Year as a team is an unbelievable honor that we are extremely grateful for," said Pilots Head Coach Brad Neffendorf. "We had a special group of players, coaches, and staff, but the support within our University and the City of Shreveport was second to none.”

“I’m excited and thankful for our baseball team to receive this recognition," said LSUS Athletics Director Lucas Morgan. "There have been some incredible recipients of this award historically, so for us to be recognized with this is a great honor. Thank you to the committee for selecting us.”

The Pilots became the first team in college baseball history to finish undefeated, as they were crowned champions at the 2025 Avista NAIA Baseball World Series with a perfect 59-0 record on the season. LSUS Baseball posted a 47-0 regular season record – including 30-0 in Red River Athletic Conference (RRCA) play – and swept through postseason play to complete the perfect season. Their 59-game win streak, which has a chance to be extended at the start of the 2026 season, is the longest in college baseball history.

"Our Awards Committee quickly came to a unanimous decision when they met to honor the LSUS Baseball team with the Carl Mikovich Sportsperson of the Year," said Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl Executive Director Missy Setters. "Their historic season and accomplishments became a tremendous national story, and we are so proud of the way the team shone a bright light on our community, which is what this award is all about."

The accolades and awards have been rolling in for the student-athletes, coaches and team as a whole. The Pilots finished No. 1 in the final NAIA Baseball Coaches' Poll, and they were ranked No. 1 in every NAIA Top 25 Poll from start to finish. Seven student-athletes were named First Team All-RRAC, three were named Second-Team All-RRAC and five were named NAIA All-Americans. Six Pilots were also RRAC Gold Glove selections, and shortstop Jose Sallorin earned the 2025 ABCA-Rawlings NAIA Gold Glove Award. Right-handed pitcher Isaac Rohde was named the 2025 ABCA/Rawlings NAIA Pitcher of the Year, and nine student-athletes were named to the Louisiana Sports Writers Association (LSWA) AllLouisiana teams.

Neffendorf has collected nine individual awards to date, as he has been named the ABCA/ATEC National Coach of the Year, College Baseball Foundation Skip Bertman Coach of the Year, Allstate Sugar Bowl Collegiate Coach of the Year, Perfect Game Collegiate National Coach of the Year, ABCA/ATEC Regional Coach of the Year, NAIA Ball National Coach of the Year, RRAC Coach of the Year, Louisiana Sports Writers Association Coach of the Year and Rawlings-NAIA Coach of the Year.

Statistically, the Pilots put on a clinic this season. They limited opponents to a .192 batting average and recorded a .982 fielding percentage – both national records. Offensively, they notched two program records by posting a .493 on-base percentage, which ranked second in the nation, and a .601 slugging percentage, which ranked fifth. They also broke program records for runs scored (665), RBI (614) and walks (388).

LIST OF RECIPIENTS

Photo: LSU Shreveport Athletics

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DATE

Monday, November 17

Sunday, December 7

Friday, December 19

Saturday, December 27

Monday, December 29

Tuesday, December 30

EVENT | SITE | TIME (CST)

CREDENTIAL APPLICATION OPENS

IndependenceBowl.org/Credentials

SELECTION SUNDAY MEDIA AVAILABILITY

Independence Bowl Office (425 Ashley Ridge Blvd, Ste 360)

CREDENTIAL APPLICATION CLOSES

IndependenceBowl.org/Credentials – 11:59 p.m.

MEDIA HOSPITALITY ROOM OPENS

Margaritaville Resort Casino (VIP Lounge on 2nd Floor) – Noon

PRE-GAME PRESS CONFERENCE

Margaritaville Resort Casino (Paradise Theater) – 10 a.m.

MEDIA LUNCHEON

Flying Heart Brewing & Pub – 12:30 p.m.

STADIUM MEDIA GATE & PRESS BOX OPENS

Independence Stadium – 9 a.m.

49th RADIANCE TECHNOLOGIES INDEPENDENCE BOWL

Independence Stadium – 1 p.m.

POST-GAME PRESS CONFERENCE

Independence Stadium Media Room –

Immediately following the end of the game

PRESS BOX CLOSES

2 hours after end of Post-Game Press Conference

RADIANCE TECHNOLOGIES INDEPENDENCE BOWL MEDIA CONTACT: Erik Evenson – Director of Communications (M) 404.368.7481 (O) 318.221.0712 (E) erik@independencebowl.org