In what was a true statement performance, the Sam Houston State Bearkats (12-1) claimed a commanding 36-17 victory over the Georgia Southern Eagles (10-2) in the 2025 New Orleans Bowl. Despite a tough loss in the Conference USA Championship, the Bearkats bounced back in dominating fashion, showing the nation exactly why they were one of the most feared teams in the country.
From the opening whistle, it was clear that Sam Houston State's powerful offense and swarming defense were too much for Georgia Southern to handle. The Bearkats controlled the tempo, setting the tone early with an impressive offensive drive and an impenetrable defense that held the Eagles to just one score until late in the fourth quarter.
Sam Houston's defense was suffocating, forcing turnovers and completely disrupting the Eagles' rhythm. The Bearkats racked up three interceptions, including a key pick that led to a quick touchdown early in the first quarter. Additionally, they managed to turn the Eagles over twice on fourth downs, showcasing their ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most.
The first half was a clinic in defensive dominance. The Bearkats held Georgia Southern to just one score, with the Eagles' only other score coming with mere minutes left in the game. Sam Houston's defense was relentless, giving up very little ground and controlling both the line of scrimmage and the tempo.
While the defense was stifling, the offense was just as potent. Senior quarterback Hayden Watson was brilliant, orchestrating a balanced attack that kept the Eagles' defense on its heels all night. Watson’s poise and leadership were evident, as he calmly led his team to a 36-9 lead before Georgia Southern was able to score again in the dying minutes of the game.
Despite the win, Bearkats' head coach Larry Bell reflected on a season that almost was, but was still a remarkable achievement. Bell, who had been criticized by media throughout the season, took great pride in what his team had accomplished.
“We had an incredible season. We were doubted all year by the media and came up just short of a perfect season,” Bell said. “All year long we had critics, but these men just continued to show up. They showed up for each other, and they showed up for this community.”
Quarterback Hayden Watson, who was named MVP of the game after throwing for over 320 yards and three touchdowns, echoed Bell’s sentiments, praising his coach for fostering a winning mentality. “Coach Bell really taught us that the most important guy on the team is the guy next to you. We bought in, we pushed each other, and we are proud of what we did,” Watson said. “And as for the media, those guys are boneheads. Quite frankly, I view them as weathermen, 99% of the time dead wrong.”
The media, however, was relentless in pressing Bell on questions about his future, with rumors swirling about powerhouse programs pursuing the Bearkats' head coach. Bell, known for his no-nonsense attitude, was not about to give any insight into his future plans.
“You guys are the last people I would give any insight to,” Bell said, a hint of frustration creeping into his voice. “You bashed my guys for 13 weeks, and now you want answers? I don’t think so. But what I will say is this: I am incredibly proud of these men and what they have done for themselves, this team, and the Bearkat community.”
As for next season, while the future of Coach Bell may be uncertain, one thing is for sure—the Sam Houston State Bearkats are here to stay. They finish their remarkable season with 13 wins, one loss, and a New Orleans Bowl victory to cap it all off. It was a performance that proved they were not just a team to be reckoned with, but a force that could dominate the national stage for years to come.
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