Jacksonville State University is experiencing significant transitions both on the field and at the coaching level. The Gamecocks, riding high after clinching the Conference USA Championship, faced off against Ohio University on December 29, 2023, at the Cure Bowl. Unfortunately, Jacksonville State fell short, losing to the Bobcats 30-27, highlighting the challenges they faced with new leadership.
The Gamecocks were led by interim head coach Rod Smith following the departure of Rich Rodriguez, who left for his alma mater, West Virginia. Rodriguez's tenure saw the team rebound spectacularly, bouncing back from three early-season losses to string together eight consecutive wins. This turnaround was part of the reason for excitement as they approached this year’s Cure Bowl, the only postseason game featuring two conference champions.
During the game, Ohio's Parker Navarro was the star, running for three touchdowns and passing for another before halftime, leading the Bobcats to a comfortable 27-7 lead. Navarro's performance was exceptional; he completed 19 of 28 passes for 227 yards and showcased his versatility by running 14 times for 119 yards. The Ohio team, now boasting an impressive record of 11-3, finished the season strong, earning their seventh consecutive win.
Despite the odds stacked against them, Jacksonville State made valiant attempts to rally. The Gamecocks, finishing the season with a 9-5 record, managed to keep the pressure on Ohio, particularly with quarterback Tyler Huff throwing for 363 yards and securing a 75-yard touchdown pass to Cam Vaughn. After Ohio took the lead to 30-14, the Gamecocks struck back with two late touchdowns, but they were unable to convert a two-point conversion on the first attempt.
The game culminated with Ohio's Rickey Hunt Jr. running out the clock, ending Jacksonville State’s hopes of completing the comeback. Smith’s interim coaching was under considerable scrutiny, as this was not just any game—it was their last of the season. The coaching dynamic was shifting rapidly, with recruiting and future prospects weighing heavily on the minds of players and fans alike.
On the horizon, adding to this coaching change news is the expected announcement of Auburn's co-defensive coordinator, Charles Kelly, taking the helm at Jacksonville State as head coach. Kelly, 57, has extensive coaching experience, including previous roles at Alabama, Tennessee, and Florida State, and has deep ties to Jacksonville State, having served as an assistant coach there from 1994 to 1998. His appointment is being covered by various media outlets, including WBRC, which first reported the potential hiring.
Seitz, the vice president for athletics at Jacksonville State, chose to sidestep inquiries about the coaching search during the Cure Bowl, focusing instead on the game itself and the current team. "Today should be about our players and the effort they’ve made throughout the season," he stated, emphasizing the importance of the moment for the team.
Looking back at the Cure Bowl, it became clear just how pivotal this season was for the Gamecocks. After succumbing to early struggles, their subsequent success demonstrated resilience and potential. The championship title added to the program's history, making their loss to Ohio bittersweet.
Tre Stewart, who was significant throughout the season, had impressive numbers, finishing with one of the best rushing season totals recorded at Jacksonville State, amassing 1,631 yards, placing him second all-time for the program. His contributions may resonate positively, influencing potential recruits and the future direction of the team.
Gamecock fans are now left hoping for swift official announcements as they look forward to the 2025 season opener against UCF, scheduled for August 28. With Charles Kelly possibly at the helm, supporters will be eager to see if his prior experience and coaching strategies can build upon the successes of 2023.
While the Cure Bowl may not have ended as hoped, it highlighted the resilience of the Jacksonville State team and set the stage for new beginnings. The impending hiring of Kelly could usher them toward even greater accomplishments, making for an exhilarating offseason as they prepare for the challenges of the coming years.
