The Coastal Carolina Chanticleers enter the Myrtle Beach Bowl with a 6-6 record, aiming to secure a winning season under head coach Tim Beck. The Chanticleers have experienced a season of highs and lows, with their balanced offensive attack and resilient defense positioning them as a formidable opponent in the bowl landscape. Facing UTSA in Conway provides a home-field advantage that Coastal Carolina looks to capitalize on. Offensively, Coastal Carolina has been effective, averaging 28.2 points per game. Quarterback Grayson McCall has been a pivotal figure, amassing over 2,000 passing yards and 20 touchdowns. His development throughout the season has been evident, displaying improved decision-making and accuracy. McCall’s connection with wide receiver Sam Pinckney has been particularly fruitful, with Pinckney leading the team in receiving yards and touchdowns, providing a reliable target in crucial situations. The ground game is spearheaded by running back Reese White, who has accumulated over 800 rushing yards and nine touchdowns. White’s combination of power and agility allows him to navigate through defenses effectively, providing a reliable option in short-yardage and goal-line situations. The offensive line has been instrumental in their success, providing robust protection for McCall and creating substantial running lanes for the backs. Defensively, the Chanticleers have faced challenges, allowing 30.9 points per game. Linebacker Teddy Gallagher has been the leader of the defense, showcasing exceptional field awareness and the ability to make crucial tackles in critical situations. Gallagher’s leadership has been instrumental in maintaining the unit’s discipline and cohesion, particularly in high-pressure moments. His ability to diagnose plays and make timely stops has been crucial in anchoring the Chanticleers’ defense. The defensive line, led by standout Josaiah Stewart, has been effective in disrupting opposing offenses. Stewart’s quickness and strength have resulted in multiple sacks and tackles for loss, making him a key factor in Coastal Carolina’s ability to pressure quarterbacks. The line’s success has also freed up linebackers to make plays in both the run and pass defense. The secondary has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly with their ability to generate turnovers. Cornerback Lance Boykin has been a standout, recording multiple interceptions and providing tight coverage against opposing receivers. However, the secondary has been vulnerable to big plays at times, an area of concern against UTSA’s dynamic passing game. Special teams have been a consistent strength for Coastal Carolina. Kicker Massimo Biscardi has converted 80% of his field goal attempts, demonstrating reliability in crucial moments. Punter Charles Ouverson has been effective in flipping field position, often pinning opponents deep in their territory. Return specialist Jared Brown has added an explosive element to the special teams unit, occasionally setting up the offense with excellent field position. Heading into the matchup against UTSA, Coastal Carolina’s game plan will focus on leveraging their balanced offensive attack and maintaining defensive discipline. Establishing the run with Reese White will be critical, as it sets up play-action opportunities for Grayson McCall to target Sam Pinckney and the other receivers. Defensively, the Chanticleers aim to pressure UTSA quarterback Owen McCown and contain running back Robert Henry, forcing the Roadrunners into predictable passing situations. This game represents an important opportunity for Coastal Carolina to end their season on a high note and build momentum for the future. A victory in the Myrtle Beach Bowl would not only secure a winning record but also reaffirm the program’s reputation as a competitive force in college football. Playing in front of a home crowd at Brooks Stadium provides an additional boost, giving the Chanticleers an edge in what promises to be a tightly contested matchup. With a balanced offense, an improving defense, and reliable special teams, Coastal Carolina is well-positioned to compete against UTSA. The Chanticleers are determined to capitalize on this opportunity and deliver a strong performance that reflects their growth and resilience throughout the season. Fans can expect Coastal Carolina to bring energy and focus as they aim to secure a bowl victory in their backyard.