Coastal Carolina secures bowl eligibility with solid victory over Georgia State

In the United States, the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers football team achieved a significant milestone by winning against Georgia State with a final score of 48-27 on Saturday. This victory marked their sixth win of the season, allowing them to reach a .500 record of 6-6 overall. The game was crucial as it also ensured Coastal Carolina's eligibility for bowl games this season. Ethan Vasko led the Chanticleers, throwing for three touchdowns and adding a fourth rushing touchdown to his performance. The game was a back-and-forth affair early on, with Vasko connecting with Senika McKie for a 10-yard touchdown for the opening score of the game. However, Georgia State quickly retaliated with a field goal and a touchdown run, briefly taking the lead in the second quarter. The play was a testament to the high stakes these teams faced, especially Georgia State, who struggled this season with a record of 3-9, marking their last game against a Sun Belt Conference opponent this year. Vasko worked to regain control of the game for Coastal Carolina, throwing a five-yard touchdown pass to Zach Courtney that re-established their lead. With a successful field goal from Kade Hensley right before halftime, Coastal Carolina went into the locker room with a 17-10 advantage. In the second half, the Chanticleers expanded their lead substantially, showcasing a powerful rushing game led by Christian Washington, who rushed for 124 yards on 20 carries. Vasko’s passing game continued to shine as he linked up with McKie for another touchdown. The Coastal Carolina defense also played a vital role, as Georgia State struggled with turnovers, including four interceptions and a fumble that significantly hindered their chances in the game. As this season draws to a close, Coastal Carolina's performance stands out particularly as they have managed to turn around what could have been a disappointing season into a bowl-eligible campaign. This 48-27 victory secured their place in the postseason, marking a success for the team and their supporters, while Georgia State will need to reassess their strategies heading into the next season as they finish 1-7 in conference play. Their inconsistent performance, evident by their six turnovers during the game, will likely prompt changes in both coaching and player recruitment for the future.