By : Cooper Scruggs
(Photo/Cooper Scruggs-The Mojo Network)
In a thrilling clash of college football programs last Saturday, the Charleston Southern Buccaneers faced off against the Citadel Bulldogs in a game that showcased grit, determination, and intense athleticism. Held at Charleston Southern’s Stadium, this matchup was a testament to the competitive spirit of Southern football partnered with the new appeal of a rivalry trophy at stake.
Game Information
Despite all of the adversity The Citadel faced, they came out on top in this thrilling game.
Head Coach Maurice Drayton earned his first win after a winless 2023 season for the Bulldogs.
Midway through the third quarter the bulldogs trailed 21-3 after Charleston Southern’s Tyson Greenwade ran it in from two yards out.
The Citadel scored on their next two drives, failing to hit two point conversions on both touchdown runs.
After two turnovers on the 10 yard line The Citadel ended up with the ball in the red zone.
Garrison Johnson pushed his way into the end zone from a yard out with less than 2 minutes to play to give Citadel a 22-21 lead. Charleston Southern then goes on to attempt a 44-yard field goal and misses with seconds left in a wild season-opening rivalry game Saturday night.
Jonathan Bennett Shines
Graduate transfer Johnathan Bennett made his return to his hometown by posting up 170 passing yards going 10-17 averaging 10 yards per completion. He really revived this Citadel offense that just a year ago struggled to score at all.
One Sided rivalry
Since the first meeting between these two Charleston Native Teams in 2002 the Citadel has run this rivalry with relative ease. The Citadel boasts a 7-4 record over the Buccaneers. With this rivalry becoming a “named” rivalry this year labeled as the official “Low Country Boil Bowl”. These teams will face off against each other for the foreseeable future from now on. Leading to some more amazing moments to come.
Looking Ahead
Both teams will now shift their focus to their upcoming games vs SC State and Furman Respectively armed with the insights and experiences gained from this clash. For The Citadel, the victory is a boost to their confidence as they continue their season. For Charleston Southern , it’s an opportunity to regroup and refine their strategies despite playing some of the top FCS teams away from home in the next couple of weeks.
As the season progresses, fans can look forward to more exciting football action from both programs. The Charleston Southern vs. The Citadel rivalry game served as a reminder of the passion and dedication that characterizes college football, and it set the stage for another exhilarating season ahead.
Bennett passed for 170 yards and rushed for 55 for The Citadel.
McCoy threw for 290 yards and a touchdown for Charleston Southern and was the leading rusher, netting 40 yards.