MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The stage is set for the 2024 Salute to Veterans Bowl as the South Alabama Jaguars (6-6) face off against the Western Michigan Broncos (6-6) on Saturday, December 14, at 9 p.m. ET, held at the Cramton Bowl. With both teams ending their regular seasons with identical records, this game holds significant importance for each program as they look to finish the year on a high note.
Despite some recent struggles, South Alabama, under the guidance of first-year head coach Major Applewhite, turned heads with key victories against notable opponents such as Louisiana and Southern Miss, securing their sixth win. Similarly, the Broncos managed to clinch their bowl berth by defeating Eastern Michigan, breaking free from a challenging three-game losing streak.
This bowl matchup also serves as the first opportunity for both teams to shine post-season, with South Alabama seeking to improve its past bowl record. Historically, the Jaguars have struggled, losing their first three bowl games before breaking through with a convincing win over Eastern Michigan last year. Unlike the Jaguars, Western Michigan boasts two wins out of eleven bowl appearances, adding extra pressure to secure another victory after their last triumph at the 2021 Quick Lane Bowl.
Key challenges facing both teams come from injuries and opt-outs as they approach the bowl. South Alabama’s star quarterback Gio Lopez will be sidelined due to injury, leaving backup Bishop Davenport to take the helm. Davenport proved to be capable, if untested, and finished the last game against Texas State with 5-of-7 passing for 59 yards. His performance will be pivotal for the Jaguars if they aim to advance their winning ambitions.
"Gio Lopez and Jamaal Pritchett will not play for South Alabama, adding significant challenges for the Jaguars," reported Creg Stephenson of AL.com. These absences could drastically change the dynamics of the South Alabama offense, as Lopez was instrumental throughout the season, throwing for over 2,500 yards and demonstrating dual-threat capability with seven rushing touchdowns. The receiving core will now lean heavily on other players, most prominently on Kentrel Bullock and standout wide receiver Jamaal Pritchett, who has accumulated impressive stats.
On the other hand, the Broncos will also have to navigate their own injury concerns, with key tight end Blake Bosma entering the transfer portal and missing the game. Despite turnover issues and challenges against defensive penetration, Western Michigan remains confident. Their head coach, Lance Taylor, aims to turn the team's past bowl record around. The Broncos key to victory rests with their ground attack, spearheaded by Jaden Nixon and Jalen Buckley, who combined have generated significant rushing yards this season to augment their scoring opportunities.
Betting odds have shifted considerably leading up to kickoff. Early predictions positioned South Alabama as 8-point favorites, but uncertainties surrounding Lopez's availability shifted lines to South Alabama -6 as kickoff approached. This alteration reflects both the risks associated with the new quarterback situation and the value the betting world sees as Western Michigan fights for a successful ending to their season.
The Salute to Veterans Bowl will be broadcast live on ESPN, bringing the energy of the Cramton Bowl to fans eager for college football action. Stream options include FuboTV and DirecTV Stream, both providing fans opportunities to catch the game.
With weather forecasts showing temperatures around 55 degrees and potential rainfall, conditions could also affect game play, favoring teams with strong running capabilities. Analysts suggest this matchup could produce thrilling moments and intense competition, reminiscent of thrilling bowl games past. "This is going to be one of the most entertaining games," indicated analysts, considering both teams have the potential to display offensive prowess.
Matchups like this show why bowl season remains special, blending tradition with fresh narratives every year. Will South Alabama's offense, albeit sans Lopez, be effective enough against the tenacious Broncos defense? Or will Western Michigan rise to the occasion and keep their own postseason hopes alive? The only way to find out is to tune in this Saturday to witness the captivating clash between South Alabama and Western Michigan at the Salute to Veterans Bowl.
Join fans across the country as we look forward to kickoff at 9 p.m. ET, live from Montgomery, Alabama.
