Chants Secure First-Ever Win at Kidd Brewer Stadium
In a heart-pounding clash that had fans on the edge of their seats, Coastal Carolina's football team carved out a historic victory at Kidd Brewer Stadium, leaving their mark with a 27-24 win over Appalachian State. This nail-biting triumph marked Coastal's inaugural win at App State's formidable fortress after six previous futile attempts. The Chants came out firing on all cylinders, setting the stage for a memorable night in Boone.
The Chants stormed into the game with a dominant opening act, featuring a 7-play, 83-yard drive that ended in a 1-yard touchdown rush by running back Braydon Bennett. Quarterback Grayson McCall, a force to be reckoned with, connected with receiver Jameson Tucker on a breathtaking 51-yard touchdown pass, pushing Coastal into an early two-touchdown lead. The Chants seemed unstoppable, with their offensive prowess on full display.
However, App State wasn't ready to let the night belong solely to Coastal. In the second quarter, kicker Michael Hughes showcased his skills with a well-executed field goal, while App State's offense clicked into gear with a 10-play drive, culminating in Ahmani Marshall's 3-yard touchdown. Suddenly, the Mountaineers were within striking distance, setting the stage for an exhilarating showdown.
The second half didn't disappoint, as App State clawed their way back into the game. Quarterback Joey Aguilar orchestrated a beautifully executed 2-yard touchdown pass to tight end David Larkin, leveling the score. Both teams fought valiantly, trading blows and matching each other's scores, resulting in a thrilling 24-24 tie.
As the clock wound down to the final minutes, App State seemed poised for a game-winning drive. Aguilar connected with receiver Milan Tucker for a spectacular 69-yard gain, poised to bring victory within reach. But in a jaw-dropping moment that will be etched in Coastal Carolina football history, cornerback Keonte Lusk came up with the play of the year. Lusk forced a crucial fumble, recovered by ABRAHAM TEMONEY III, giving the Chants the ball and the chance to seal the deal.
With just 52 seconds left on the clock, CJ Beasley made a gutsy run up the middle for 21 yards, intentionally taking a knee at the 1-yard line. After a well-timed timeout, Coastal executed a calculated play. McCall took a loss of 4 to milk the clock down, and then Beasley, with nerves of steel, secured the victory. He ran the ball, ensuring that the clock dwindled down to a mere three seconds.
The spotlight then fell on the Chants' kicker, whose leg carried the weight of history. In the final seconds, Coastal Carolina's kicker, representing the teal and black, made a remarkable 24-yard field goal. The ball sailed through the uprights and nestled inside the right post, sealing the deal on this monumental victory.
With this memorable win, Coastal Carolina secured its first-ever victory at Kidd Brewer Stadium and, equally significant, marked coach Tim Beck's maiden Sun Belt Conference victory. Grayson McCall's stellar performance, combined with standout plays from the Chants, propelled them to victory. Sam Pinckney and Jameson Tucker's heroic efforts in the receiving department, along with Braydon Bennett's impressive 64 rushing yards and a touchdown, left fans elated.
This victory will be cherished by Chants fans for years to come, as Coastal Carolina football adds another chapter to its storied history. The Chants' remarkable resilience and dedication have undoubtedly etched their names into the annals of college football. The first win at Kidd Brewer Stadium, against all odds, will stand as a testament to Coastal Carolina's relentless pursuit of success.
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