The 2025 bowl season has kicked off with thrilling performances from college football teams across the nation, and ESPN’s experts are highlighting standout players in each of the 36 bowl games from December 13 to January 2.
In the Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl, NC State claimed a 31-7 victory over Memphis, with linebacker Caden Fordham earning MVP honors. Fordham distinguished himself on the field, finishing with 13 tackles, including 1.5 for loss. Notably, he intercepted a pass from Memphis quarterback Brendon Lewis, returning it 55 yards to set up a crucial touchdown. This win marked NC State’s first bowl victory since 2017, showcasing Fordham’s significant impact in his final college game.
The Myrtle Beach Bowl featured Western Michigan dominating Kennesaw State 41-6, and running back Jalen Buckley took home MVP accolades for his explosive performance. Buckley made an immediate impact by scoring on a 65-yard touchdown on the very first play of the game, finishing with an impressive 172 yards on just seven carries in the first quarter alone. Western Michigan’s defense also excelled, contributing to the blowout victory.
Arkansas State edged Missouri State 34-28 in the Xbox Bowl, fueled by the efforts of wide receiver Corey Rucker. Rucker, who just became the 24th player in FBS history to surpass 4,000 career receiving yards, caught a 71-yard touchdown pass that helped the Red Wolves seize an early lead. Despite pressure from Missouri State, Rucker’s performance proved instrumental as Arkansas State secured consecutive bowl wins for the first time in over a decade.
In the 68 Ventures Bowl, Delaware triumphed 20-13 over Louisiana thanks to running back Jo Silver. In Delaware’s inaugural season as an FBS program, Silver’s 116 rushing yards, including a pivotal 61-yard run for the game’s first score, underscored his significance to the team’s offense.
Old Dominion captured the StaffDNA Cure Bowl by defeating South Florida 24-10, with quarterback Quinn Henicle being named MVP. Playing in place of the injured starter, Henicle managed the game effectively with 127 passing yards and an additional 107 rushing yards, making key plays without turning the ball over.
In a closely contested matchup, Jacksonville State edged Troy 17-13 in the IS4S Salute to Veterans Bowl. Wide receiver Deondre Johnson, who transferred from Rutgers, excelled with six receptions for 101 yards, solidifying his role as a prominent player to watch in future seasons.
The Bucked Up LA Bowl saw Washington defeat Boise State 38-10, powered by quarterback Demond Williams Jr.’s stellar performance. Williams showcased his potential with four touchdown passes, leading Washington to a comfortable win and highlighting his growth as a serious contender for next season.
Lastly, in a dramatic conclusion, South Carolina State won the Cricket Celebration Bowl against Prairie View A&M, 40-38, in quadruple overtime. Wide receiver Jordan Smith was at the center of this thrilling victory, recording nine receptions for 152 yards and scoring three touchdowns, including a crucial one that forced overtime.
The results from the early bowl games not only highlight individual excellence but also promise an exciting continuation of the bowl season as teams vie for greater glory. Each MVP showcased their talents and made significant contributions, setting the stage for more thrilling matchups ahead.