Bulldogs Secure Victory in Independence Bowl Comeback

Shreveport, Louisiana, December 31, 2025

Louisiana Tech achieved a stunning 23-14 win over Coastal Carolina in a thrilling comeback during the Independence Bowl. After trailing by 11 points at halftime, the Bulldogs rallied in the second half, showcasing incredible resilience and determination. This marked LA Tech’s ninth bowl title and their largest postseason comeback ever. The game was filled with excitement, highlighted by significant penalties and turnovers, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of college football.

Myrtle Beach, SC —

Bulldogs Stage Epic Comeback in Independence Bowl Thriller

Louisiana Tech secured a dramatic 23-14 victory over Coastal Carolina in the 2025 Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl on Tuesday, December 30, showcasing a tenacious second-half performance that captivated college football enthusiasts. The Bulldogs overcame an 11-point halftime deficit, demonstrating remarkable resilience and competitive spirit to shut out the Chanticleers in the final two quarters. This hard-fought triumph not only marks LA Tech’s ninth bowl title but also represents their largest postseason comeback in program history.

The contest, held in Shreveport, Louisiana, was a testament to the unpredictable nature of collegiate athletics, marked by an Independence Bowl record 228 combined penalty yards on 25 total flags and a combined seven turnovers. Despite a challenging first half, Louisiana Tech rallied with an impressive 17-point surge in the fourth quarter to clinch the win, underscoring the value of perseverance and strategic adjustments in high-stakes competition.

The Spirit of Competition and Coastal Carolina’s Grand Strand Presence

The Independence Bowl showcased the enduring spirit of competition that defines college football, a spirit deeply ingrained in programs like Coastal Carolina University’s. While the Chanticleers ultimately fell short, their consistent presence in bowl season – marking their sixth appearance since 2020 – highlights a commitment to athletic excellence that resonates far beyond the gridiron. Coastal Carolina’s athletic endeavors are a vital component of the Grand Strand’s identity, bringing national attention and fostering community pride in Myrtle Beach and Horry County. The university’s proactive approach to its athletic programs, especially football, is a deliberate strategy to achieve broader institutional success and enhance regional recognition.

Economic Ripples: Athletics as a Catalyst for Growth

College athletics, exemplified by bowl game participation, serves as a significant economic engine for host cities and participating institutions. While the Independence Bowl took place in Louisiana, Coastal Carolina’s involvement generates tangible benefits for the Myrtle Beach area. Investments in university athletic infrastructure and programs attract fans, stimulate tourism through lodging and dining, and elevate the institution’s profile, ultimately drawing prospective students and strengthening regional identity. Nationwide, the economic impact of college bowl games is substantial, with annual figures reported in the billions, illustrating the powerful link between competitive sports and local economies.

The entrepreneurial spirit evident in sports administration, from securing bowl bids to developing state-of-the-art facilities, underscores a commitment to responsible growth. Coastal Carolina University’s recently completed indoor practice facility, operational since August 2025, exemplifies private initiative driving competitive advantage. Such investments are not merely about winning games; they are about building a sustainable ecosystem that supports student-athletes, enhances community engagement, and contributes to the economic vitality of the state.

Game Dynamics: A Tale of Two Halves

The 2025 Independence Bowl was a dramatic contest defined by significant swings in momentum. Coastal Carolina initially established a commanding 14-3 lead by halftime, with quarterback Tad Hudson delivering two touchdown passes. Hudson concluded the game with 311 passing yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions. However, the Bulldogs’ defense asserted dominance in the second half, completely shutting out the Chanticleers. Louisiana Tech quarterback Trey Kukuk proved instrumental in the comeback, contributing a crucial touchdown pass and a game-high 121 rushing yards. Andrew Burnette sealed the go-ahead score, securing the Bulldogs’ first lead of the game with just over eight minutes remaining.

The game was also notable for its high volume of penalties and turnovers. The teams combined for an Independence Bowl record 228 penalty yards on 25 flags, with both squads struggling with discipline. Coastal Carolina’s defense, despite the loss, recorded four takeaways, including three in plus territory, showcasing their own competitive drive. Such challenges highlight the constant need for focus and precision in high-level athletics, where every decision can swing the outcome of a contest.

Fostering Athletic Achievement and Community Self-Reliance

University athletic programs like Coastal Carolina’s are more than just sports teams; they are integral institutions that foster character, discipline, and leadership among young individuals. The investment in student-athletes extends beyond coaching, encompassing academic support, facility upgrades, and programs like Teal Impact, which focuses on career development and community engagement. While Coastal Carolina faced challenges on the field under interim coach Jeremiah Johnson, who was Louisiana Tech’s defensive coordinator a year prior, their continued participation in bowl games speaks to a robust program that is a source of pride for its community.

The path to athletic success is rarely without obstacles. Modern collegiate sports also navigate pressures from evolving landscapes such as the transfer portal and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, which demand constant adaptation and strategic management from university administrations. However, the emphasis on cultivating personal responsibility and competitive excellence remains a constant, driving both individual achievement and institutional growth through self-reliance and community support.

Looking Ahead for Coastal Carolina Athletics

While the Independence Bowl outcome was not what Coastal Carolina fans had hoped for, the Chanticleers’ consistent presence in postseason play underscores the program’s upward trajectory and the university’s commitment to competitive athletics. Finishing the season with a 6-7 record, Coastal Carolina will now look to build on its experiences and continue its development. The dedication of resources to athletic facilities and student-athlete development programs ensures a strong foundation for future success, enhancing the experience for its students and contributing to the economic vitality of Myrtle Beach and the state of South Carolina.

The community’s engagement and support are crucial for sustaining these efforts. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to continue supporting Coastal Carolina University athletics, attending games, and celebrating the positive impact these programs have on both individual student-athletes and the broader regional economy. Through collective effort and a commitment to competitive excellence, the Chanticleers are poised for continued growth and will remain a cherished asset to the Grand Strand.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Who won the 2025 Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl?
  Louisiana Tech defeated Coastal Carolina 23-14.
• What was the final score of the Independence Bowl?
  The final score was Louisiana Tech 23, Coastal Carolina 14.
• Did Louisiana Tech make a comeback?
  Yes, Louisiana Tech overcame an 11-point halftime deficit, scoring 17 points in the fourth quarter to win.
• Were there a lot of penalties in the game?
  Yes, the game featured an Independence Bowl record 228 combined penalty yards on 25 total flags.
• How many turnovers were in the Independence Bowl?
  There were seven total turnovers in the game.
• How many bowl appearances has Coastal Carolina made?
  Coastal Carolina has made six bowl appearances, all since 2020, and currently holds a 2-4 record in those games.
• What is the economic impact of college bowl games nationally?
  A report indicates the economic impact of the nation’s 41 college football bowl games is $1.5 billion annually.
• What is Coastal Carolina University doing to support its athletic programs?
  Coastal Carolina University is strategically investing in athletic infrastructure, including a new indoor practice facility completed in August 2025, and programs to support student-athletes.

2025 Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl Key Statistics

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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.