ATLANTA — Jackson State University etched its name in HBCU football history by winning its first-ever Celebration Bowl, defeating South Carolina State 28-7 on December 14, 2024, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
This triumph not only secured the Tigers their inaugural Celebration Bowl title but also marked their redemption after falling to the Bulldogs by the same margin during their last meeting in the 2021 bowl game.
The season finale for the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) champions proved to be overwhelming, as their offense and defense exhibited sheer domination throughout the contest. Jackson State quickly capitalized on the game's momentum.
Although the first quarter ended scoreless, both teams battled penalties and turnovers. A highlight was Jackson's early return touchdown wiped out by an unnecessary roughness call. But the Tigers, led by quarterback Jacobian Morgan, bounced back strong.
Early on, Morgan was efficient and assertive; he ended with 233 passing yards and two touchdown passes—both to wide receiver Joanes Fortilien. Their first score came on the second quarter, after constructing a remarkable 19-play, 9:39 minute drive, with Fortilien finally catching the 4-yard pass to put the Tigers up 7-0.
“For the first time in program history, the Jackson State Tigers are Celebration Bowl Champions,” reported WLBT, highlighting the significance of this victory.
Before the half closed, Irv Mulligan scored from the one-yard line, extending their lead to 14-0. The dominant rushing performance continued as Mulligan ended the game with two short touchdown runs, effectively sealing South Carolina's fate.
Jackson State’s prowess on both sides of the ball was illustrated by their overwhelming statistics: they outgained South Carolina State 383-211 and limited them to just 30 rushing yards. Throughout the first three quarters, the Tigers held the Bulldogs to just 59 yards.
“The seven points allowed by Jackson State are the fewest points allowed in Celebration Bowl history,” the USA TODAY Network reported, shedding light on the Tigers' defensive performance. This was not merely about the offense, as Jackson State's defense came to play. They consistently disrupted the Bulldogs' rhythm, forcing several turnovers and maintaining pressure on their quarterback, Eric Phoenix.
While Morgan’s big-play ability helped extend drives, such as the remarkable 67-yard pass to Isaiah Spencer, which set up Mulligan's second touchdown, it was the relentless defense led by players like A. Petty and A. Taylor who held South Carolina State at bay.
The Bulldogs, who entered the game with high expectations after defeating Jackson State during the 2021 bowl, struggled to maintain consistency. Phoenix tossed for 167 yards, managed to secure one touchdown late, but it was too little too late.
Commentators praised both teams for representing HBCU football on this prestigious platform. “The atmosphere at Mercedes-Benz was electric; you could almost feel the excitement ripple through the Tigers' fans every time they scored,” said J. Walker, the game analyst on ABC's broadcast.
Something to note as fans celebrated their team's historic win is the broader significance this game holds. Jackson State's victory is also seen as pivotal for HBCU football, showcasing talent and fostering competitive spirit. It highlights how fast these programs can rise and make their mark on national stages.
While jubilant players celebrated their monumental achievement, South Carolina State walked away with their heads held high. Their reputation as fierce competitors remains intact, and their efforts throughout the season showcased the full spectrum of talent present within the MEAC.
Before the trophy presentation, head coach TC Taylor made it clear, “This is just the beginning for our program. We aim for continuous improvement, and today’s win is evidence of our hard work paying off”.
The game concluded with both teams establishing their legacy within the HBCU athletic structure, continuing the tradition of fierce competition on this distinguished platform. Jackson State has not only laid claim to the Celebration Bowl but also delivered pressing stories of resilience, determination, and hope for future seasons.
Such celebrations echo the beauty of college football and the culture within these historically significant institutions. Jackson State University and South Carolina State have shown the world why they belong on this grand stage, proving yet again the importance of HBCUs.
This victory now adds to Jackson State's storied history; their passionate fans eagerly await what the future holds. The Tigers are poised to continue supremacy within HBCU circles, laying the groundwork for future success stories.
And so, as the curtain falls on the 2024 Celebration Bowl, one thing is patently clear: Jackson State, with this unrelenting drive and determination, stands at the pinnacle of HBCU football.