What's Happening?
The Troy Trojans are scheduled to face the Jacksonville State Gamecocks in the 2025 Salute to Veterans Bowl on December 16, 2025. The game will take place at the Cramton Bowl in Montgomery, Alabama, with a kickoff time of 9 p.m. ET. Troy, having won its division in the Sun Belt, recently lost the conference championship game to James Madison with a score of 31-14. Similarly, Jacksonville State lost its Conference USA title game to Kennesaw State, 19-15. Notably, Troy's cornerback Kaleno Levine has declared for the NFL Draft and will not participate in this matchup. The Gamecocks are currently 2.5-point favorites, and the over/under for the game is set at 49.5 points. The SportsLine Projection Model, which simulates every FBS game 10,000 times,
predicts that the total points will go over 49.5, with Jacksonville State's Cam Cook and quarterback Caden Creel expected to make significant contributions.
Why It's Important?
This bowl game is significant as it provides both teams an opportunity to end their seasons on a high note after falling short in their respective conference championship games. For Troy, a victory would serve as a redemption after their recent loss, while Jacksonville State aims to capitalize on their offensive strengths, particularly with Cam Cook, the nation's leading rusher. The game also holds importance for players like Kaleno Levine, who are transitioning to professional careers, as it highlights the talent and potential of college athletes. Additionally, the event is a part of the Salute to Veterans Bowl, which honors military veterans, adding a layer of social significance to the sporting event.
What's Next?
Following the game, attention will likely shift to the NFL Draft prospects, particularly for players like Kaleno Levine who have declared their intentions to enter the draft. For the teams, the outcome of the game could influence recruiting efforts and set the tone for the next season. Stakeholders such as coaches and athletic directors will analyze the performance to make strategic decisions for future games. Additionally, the results could impact the betting markets, as sportsbooks adjust their odds based on the performance of key players and teams.
