Jacksonville, AL – The Jacksonville State Gamecocks are set to make history as they gear up for their first-ever bowl game in the Football Bowl Championship Subdivision (FBS) this fall. Having seamlessly transitioned to the FBS this season, the Gamecocks have secured a spot in the prestigious R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl, where they will face off against Louisiana’s Ragin’ Cajuns. The much-anticipated matchup is scheduled for Saturday, December 16, at the iconic Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, with kickoff slated for 1:15 p.m. CT.
This marks a significant milestone for Jacksonville State, as they become the first team since 1997 to play in a bowl game in their inaugural FBS season. Their impressive performance this season, boasting an 8-4 record with a 6-2 Conference USA standing, also places them among an elite group, becoming only the eighth team since 1970 to secure at least eight wins in their debut FBS campaign.
The Gamecocks’ opponent, the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns, will enter the contest with a 6-6 record (3-5 Sun Belt Conference). This will be the seventh appearance for the Ragin’ Cajuns in the R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl, where they have clinched victory five times, establishing themselves as a formidable force in the postseason.
The upcoming matchup holds historical significance for both teams, marking only the second meeting between Jacksonville State and Louisiana on the gridiron. Their previous encounter took place in 2000, with the Gamecocks emerging victorious with a 28-14 win.
Fans eager to witness this historic clash can secure their seats by purchasing tickets through the Jax State Ticket Office. Ticket prices range from $60 in all other sections on the sideline to $80 for sections located at midfield behind the Gamecocks’ bench, ensuring a variety of options for supporters. All seats within the Jax State allotment will be reserved chairback seats.
For those looking to make the most of the New Orleans experience, the Gamecocks’ hotel headquarters will be the Sheraton New Orleans at 500 Canal Street, where a room block will be made available for Jax State fans.
Additionally, Jacksonville State is organizing a special bus trip for fans, priced at $135 per person. This package includes travel to and from New Orleans, along with a reception event on Friday night. Notably, tickets to the game must be purchased separately. Further information on the bus trip and hotel accommodations can be obtained by contacting Kaci Ogle at kogle@jsu.edu.
As the Gamecocks embark on this historic bowl journey, the entire Jacksonville State community eagerly anticipates a thrilling and memorable experience in the Big Easy.
