The UTSA Roadrunners and Coastal Carolina Chanticleers are gearing up for the Myrtle Beach Bowl, with kickoff set for 10 a.m. CT on Monday, December 23, 2024. The game, taking place at Brooks Stadium in Conway, South Carolina, marks the first meeting between these two teams, both of whom finished the regular season with 6-6 records.
The Roadrunners, coached by Jeff Traylor, are making their fifth consecutive bowl appearance and look to build off their recent 35-17 victory over Marshall, which earned them their first-ever bowl win last season. Conversely, Coastal Carolina, now led by head coach Tim Beck, clinched their bowl berth by winning their last game against Georgia State, also wrapping up the season at .500.
UTSA has had quite the rollercoaster ride to reach this bowl game. The Roadrunners had to fight tooth and nail, finishing strong by winning three of their last four games, recovering from earlier struggles. They averaged 41.7 points and 495.5 yards over the past six contests, showing promising offensive capabilities as they prepare for the challenge against the Chanticleers.
On game day, viewers can watch the action live on ESPN, with broadcasting provided by Taylor Zarzour, Matt Stinchcomb, and Alyssa Lang. An additional radio broadcast by the UTSA Sports Media Network offers more options for fans. This broadcast will feature Andy Everett as play-by-play announcer along with analysts Jay Riley and Ed Suarez.
Weather conditions are expected to be chilly, with game-time temperatures forecasted at around 46 degrees, making this the coldest Myrtle Beach Bowl on record. Historically, UTSA has handled cold weather relatively well, holding a 4-3 record when games kick off at 50 degrees or below. The team will need to bring this resilience, as they adapt to the frigid conditions.
Coastal Carolina’s outlook heading to the game is slightly different. After starting strong at 3-0, they struggled midway through the season, losing four of their next five games. They rallied but ended at .500 overall and 3-5 within the Sun Belt Conference. Lack of momentum could be challenging, especially with the team experiencing player transitions, including some key players entering the transfer portal. This has led to North Carolina transfer Tad Hudson stepping up as the starting quarterback for the bowl match.
Prominent players to watch include UTSA's offensive star, who has been instrumental throughout the latter part of the season. The Roadrunners’ air attack will be tested by the Chanticleers’ defense, which has allowed an average of 30.6 points per game this season. The Roadrunners will need to exploit every gap and opportunity presented by Coastal’s defensive lineup.
Betting lines have placed UTSA as slight favorites with the point spread set at -10. Also, analysts are eyeing the over/under at 55.5 points, indicating expectations of dynamic play from both teams.
This showdown promises to be rich with competitive spirit as both teams enter with contrasting dynamics, UTSA seeking redemption after their previous loss against Army, and Coastal Carolina trying to maintain the buzz following their last-game win. The stage is set for college football fans on this festive day leading up to the holidays.
Fans are excited, with tickets reported still available even on game day. This matchup not only serves as entertainment but also provides both programs another chance to demonstrate their growth and strides throughout the season.
With both teams eager for victory, the Myrtle Beach Bowl signifies much more than just another game for UTSA and Coastal Carolina. It is the culmination of their hard work and perseverance, and both squads will leave everything on the field to finish the season on a triumphant note.
