Myrtle Beach, SC, December 22, 2025
The Western Michigan University Broncos claimed a decisive 41-6 victory against the Kennesaw State Owls in the Myrtle Beach Bowl, showcasing strong athletic performance and economic benefits. The game, featuring standout running back Jalen Buckley, not only thrilled fans but also contributed over $4 million to the local economy, emphasizing the intersection of sports and community prosperity. As Myrtle Beach continues to host high-caliber events, the positive financial impact reinforces the value of collegiate athletics in driving growth in the Grand Strand area.
Myrtle Beach, SC —
Broncos Stampede in Myrtle Beach Bowl, Buckley Ignites Local Economy
The spirit of competitive excellence and the tangible benefits of strategic economic development converged in Conway, South Carolina, last Friday as the Western Michigan University Broncos secured a dominant 41-6 victory over the Kennesaw State Owls in the 2025 Myrtle Beach Bowl. The game, a vibrant display of collegiate athletics, was ignited by a sensational 65-yard touchdown run from Batavia native and Western Michigan junior running back Jalen Buckley on the very first play from scrimmage, setting an immediate and exhilarating tone for both his team and the surrounding Grand Strand community.
Beyond the thrilling on-field performance, the Myrtle Beach Bowl serves as a powerful testament to the positive economic ripple effect that well-supported collegiate sporting events can generate. Annually, this festive postseason tradition is estimated to inject over $4 million in external revenue into the local Grand Strand economy, providing a crucial boost to the hospitality sector during what might otherwise be a quieter period. This synergy between athletic achievement and regional prosperity underscores the value of private initiative and community collaboration in fostering growth.
Buckley’s Explosive Start and Bronco Dominance
MVP Performance Fuels Record Season
Jalen Buckley, a redshirt junior running back for Western Michigan, was undeniably the star of the show, earning the coveted Most Valuable Player award for his extraordinary efforts. His opening play from scrimmage, a powerful 65-yard dash for a touchdown, electrified Brooks Stadium and propelled the Broncos to an early lead they would never relinquish. Buckley concluded the game with an impressive 174 rushing yards on just eight carries, averaging a remarkable 21.8 yards per attempt, showcasing the kind of individual brilliance that elevates both team performance and spectator experience.
The Broncos’ victory marked a historic milestone for the program, securing their third bowl win and becoming the first team in Western Michigan University history to win both a conference championship and a bowl game in the same season. This achievement caps off an outstanding 2025 campaign where Western Michigan finished with a commendable 10-4 record (7-1 MAC), reaching the 10-win mark for only the second time in program history. Such sustained success is a testament to the dedication of student-athletes and the strategic investment in university athletic programs.
Myrtle Beach: A Hub for Sports and Economic Vitality
Bowl Game’s Contribution to the Grand Strand
The Myrtle Beach Bowl is more than just a single football game; it represents a significant economic engine for the Grand Strand region. The estimated annual injection of over $4 million in outside money directly supports local businesses, from hotels and restaurants to retail outlets, generating valuable tax revenue that contributes to essential community services. This financial influx is particularly impactful for the hospitality sector, providing a vital economic stimulus during a time that typically sees slower activity.
The success of events like the Myrtle Beach Bowl aligns seamlessly with the broader growth of sports tourism in the area. In 2023, sports tourism alone generated over $174.2 million in direct spending for the City of Myrtle Beach, with collegiate football events like this contributing a notable $3.3 million to that figure. The region’s commitment to hosting high-caliber athletic competitions fosters an environment of responsible growth and showcases how community partnerships can enrich the local economy and spirit.
Investment and Initiative: Pillars of Athletic Success
The Broader Impact of Collegiate Athletics
The achievement of Western Michigan University, culminating in a dominant bowl victory, highlights the importance of robust university programs and dedicated coaching staff. Head Coach Lance Taylor has demonstrated a keen ability to develop talent and foster a winning culture, leading the Broncos from a four-win season to a conference championship and a bowl win. This trajectory of improvement underscores the value of sustained leadership and the positive outcomes when academic institutions prioritize athletic excellence as part of a holistic student experience.
Furthermore, the Myrtle Beach Bowl itself stands as an example of successful private investment and community self-reliance. Sponsored by corporate platforms, the event brings together diverse stakeholders to create a valuable platform for competition and regional promotion. The decision to host such events reflects an entrepreneurial spirit within the community, recognizing the potential for sports to drive commerce and enhance the quality of life for residents through entertainment and economic opportunity.
A Culture of Perseverance and Competition
Batavia’s Legacy and Individual Drive
Jalen Buckley’s journey from Batavia, Illinois, to collegiate football stardom exemplifies the personal perseverance often celebrated in athletic endeavors. His explosive performance in a high-stakes bowl game not only brought recognition to himself and Western Michigan but also reflects the foundational support and competitive spirit often nurtured in local communities and high school athletic programs. While not explicitly detailed in the provided snippets for Jalen, Batavia High School has a history of producing college football talent, as evidenced by its alumni playing at various universities, highlighting a commitment to athletic development.
The competitive nature of college football, epitomized by a matchup featuring two conference champions, encourages peak performance and rewards disciplined effort. This healthy competition pushes athletes to excel and provides fans with exciting, memorable moments, reinforcing the value of striving for excellence in all fields. The ability of athletes like Buckley to “take it to the house” is a direct result of countless hours of training, strategic coaching, and an unwavering commitment to personal and team goals.
Conclusion
The 2025 Myrtle Beach Bowl was a resounding success, delivering both a memorable athletic spectacle and significant economic benefits to the Grand Strand. Jalen Buckley’s MVP performance for the Western Michigan Broncos not only crowned a historic season for his team but also highlighted the individual excellence that emerges from dedicated training and competitive drive. As Myrtle Beach continues to solidify its reputation as a premier destination for sports tourism, the positive economic impact of such events remains a testament to the power of private initiative, community engagement, and the enduring appeal of collegiate athletics.
We encourage all residents and visitors to continue supporting college football in Myrtle Beach and the many other sporting events that contribute to our vibrant local economy and community spirit. Engage with local businesses, celebrate student-athlete achievements, and help uphold our region’s reputation for competitive excellence and responsible growth.
Keywords: Myrtle Beach SC sports, college football in Myrtle Beach, Western Michigan University athletics, Myrtle Beach Bowl football, economic impact sports tourism
FAQ Section
Q: When was the 2025 Myrtle Beach Bowl played?
A: The 2025 Myrtle Beach Bowl was played on Friday, December 19, 2025.
Q: Which teams competed in the 2025 Myrtle Beach Bowl?
A: The Western Michigan Broncos, champions of the Mid-American Conference, competed against the Kennesaw State Owls, champions of Conference USA.
Q: What was the final score of the game?
A: Western Michigan defeated Kennesaw State with a final score of 41-6.
Q: Who was named the MVP of the Myrtle Beach Bowl?
A: Redshirt junior running back Jalen Buckley of Western Michigan University was named the MVP.
Q: How many rushing yards did Jalen Buckley have?
A: Jalen Buckley rushed for 174 yards on eight carries.
Q: What was the economic impact of the Myrtle Beach Bowl on the Grand Strand?
A: The Myrtle Beach Bowl is estimated to inject over $4 million in outside money into the Grand Strand economy annually.
Q: How many wins did Western Michigan achieve this season?
A: Western Michigan finished the season with 10 wins, marking it as the second time in program history they reached 10 wins.
Feature Table: 2025 Myrtle Beach Bowl Highlights
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Event Date | December 19, 2025 |
| Location | Brooks Stadium, Conway, SC |
| Winning Team | Western Michigan Broncos |
| Final Score | Western Michigan 41, Kennesaw State 6 |
| MVP | Jalen Buckley (Western Michigan, RB) |
| Buckley’s Rushing Yards | 174 yards |
| Buckley’s Touchdowns | 1 (65-yard run on first play) |
| WMU Season Record | 10-4 (7-1 MAC) |
| Economic Impact (Annual) | Over $4 million for Grand Strand |
Now Happening on X
- @TBPCollegeFB (Dec 19, 2025): Western Michigan wins the Myrtle Beach Bowl, led by explosive RB Jalen Buckley with 174 rushing yards and 1 TD, finishing the season 10-4 as conference champions for the first time in program history. View on X
- @trillymoneyline (Dec 19, 2025): Recap of the Myrtle Beach Bowl where Jalen Buckley surpassed 71.5 rushing yards and the total points hit 48.5 between Western Michigan and Kennesaw State. View on X
- @jcarperrr (Dec 19, 2025): Jalen Buckley dominated in his last two games, including 174 yards and 1 TD in one quarter of the Myrtle Beach Bowl, making him a name to watch in the transfer portal. View on X
- @Rob__Paul (Dec 19, 2025): Western Michigan’s Jalen Buckley scores a TD on the opening play of the Myrtle Beach Bowl, continuing his unstoppable streak down the stretch. View on X
- @BetRivers (Dec 19, 2025): Western Michigan takes an early lead in the Myrtle Beach Bowl with Jalen Buckley’s touchdown on the first play from scrimmage. View on X
- @UltGridiron (Dec 19, 2025): Jalen Buckley explodes in the first quarter of the Myrtle Beach Bowl with 172 yards and a touchdown on 7 carries, hailed as the hero of the game. View on X
- @UpdogSportsTalk (Dec 19, 2025): Jalen Buckley has been unreal lately, leading Western Michigan to strike first in the Myrtle Beach Bowl. View on X
- @ThreeAndOutIESR (Dec 20, 2025): Western Michigan dominates Kennesaw State 41-6 in the Myrtle Beach Bowl, with Jalen Buckley going off and the defense scoring twice. View on X
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Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
