The people's voice of reason
The people's voice of reason
The Troy versus Jax State bowl game is coming up in Montgomery next week
MONTGOMERY - Two proud Alabama programs will collide in the 2025 Salute to Veterans Bowl as the Troy Trojans (7-5) face off against the Jacksonville State Gamecocks (7-5) on Tuesday, December 16 at the historic Cramton Bowl. Kickoff is set for 6:30 p.m. CST, with national coverage on ESPN.
This marks the first time Troy and Jacksonville State will meet in a bowl game, and the first time two Alabama FBS programs have squared off in Montgomery's postseason showcase. For fans across the state - especially in the Wiregrass, River Region, and St. Clair County - the matchup offers a rare chance to celebrate local football pride on a national stage.
Troy Trojans: Bowl Season Regulars
Troy enters the bowl with a 7-5 record and a reputation for defensive toughness and late-game resilience. The Trojans finished second in the Sun Belt East Division and closed the regular season with a 31-28 win over Georgia State, securing their fifth bowl appearance in six years.
Quarterback Gunnar Watson leads the offense with over 2,800 passing yards and 24 touchdowns, while running back Kimani Vidal adds over 1,000 rushing yards and 10 scores. On defense, linebacker Jayden McDonald and safety Reddy Steward anchor a unit that ranks among the Sun Belt's best in takeaways.
Head coach Jon Sumrall praised his team's grit: "This group has battled all season. We're proud to represent Troy and the Sun Belt in Montgomery, and we know what this game means to our state."
Troy previously won the Montgomery-based bowl in 2020, when it was known as the Camellia Bowl, defeating UTSA 29-16.
Jacksonville State: Making Bowl History
Jacksonville State's 2025 campaign marks its second season at the FBS level, and the Gamecocks wasted no time making history. Their 7-5 record in Conference USA includes wins over Liberty, Sam Houston, and Middle Tennessee, and their bowl invitation marks the program's first-ever FBS postseason appearance.
Led by veteran head coach Rich Rodriguez, the Gamecocks feature a fast-paced offense powered by quarterback Zion Webb and running back Anwar Lewis. Webb has thrown for 2,100 yards and rushed for 600 more, while Lewis has racked up over 1,200 all-purpose yards.
"This is a huge moment for our program," Rodriguez said. "To play in a bowl game in our home state, against a great Troy team, is something our players and fans will never forget."
Jacksonville State's defense is led by linebacker Markel Clark and cornerback Kolbi Fuqua, both of whom earned All-Conference honors.
Honoring Veterans and Alabama Football
The Salute to Veterans Bowl is more than just a football game - it's a tribute to military service and Alabama's football heritage. The Cramton Bowl, one of the oldest stadiums in the South, will host pregame ceremonies honoring veterans, active-duty personnel, and their families.
Organizers expect a strong turnout from both fan bases, with ticket prices starting at $20. Local businesses and civic groups are also partnering to provide discounted tickets to veterans and military families.
Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed called the bowl "a celebration of service, sport, and Southern hospitality," and emphasized the city's commitment to honoring those who've served.
What to Watch
- Quarterback Duel: Watson vs. Webb - both are experienced, mobile, and capable of leading game-winning drives.
- Defensive Pressure: Troy's pass rush vs. Jacksonville State's tempo offense will be a key factor.
- In-State Energy: With both teams hailing from Alabama, expect a passionate crowd and intense atmosphere.
Whether you're a Trojan, a Gamecock, or simply a fan of Alabama football, the 2025 Salute to Veterans Bowl promises a night of pride, pageantry, and postseason drama in the heart of Montgomery.
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