## Bowl Season MVPs: Early Standouts from Dec. 13-17
The 2025 bowl season is ramping up and ESPN’s college football experts are here to highlight the best performances.We’ll pick MVPs from each of the 36 bowl games from Dec. 13 to Jan. 2. These are our experts’ picks and won’t necessarily align with the official bowl MVP.
Check back after each game for the latest top performances from bowl season.
MVP: QB Quinn Henicle
old Dominion moved to 10-3 on the season, and it did so without starting QB Colton Joseph. Neither team had its regular QB1, but while USF’s reserves tossed four picks in the game, ODU’s Quinn Henicle did all he needed to win without making any critical miscues. Henicle finished with 127 passing yards,107 more on the ground and a pair of touchdowns. — david hale
MVP: WR deondre Johnson
Jordan Smith Named MVP of Thrilling Festivity Bowl Comeback
South Carolina State wide receiver A Game for the Ages
the Celebration Bowl, showcasing the champions of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) and the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), delivered a classic contest. Prairie View A&M initially dominated,but South Carolina State mounted a stunning second-half comeback fueled by Smith’s explosive plays.
Smith finished the game with nine receptions for 152 yards and two touchdowns.He also contributed on the ground with five carries for 28 yards and another touchdown. His crucial 10-yard receiving touchdown with just two minutes remaining in regulation forced the game into overtime, ultimately setting the stage for the Bulldogs’ dramatic win. Key Stats & Impact
Here’s a breakdown of Jordan Smith’s impactful performance:
* Receptions: 9
* Receiving Yards: 152
* Receiving Touchdowns: 2
* Carries: 5
* Rushing Yards: 28
* Rushing Touchdowns: 1
Smith’s ability to contribute both as a receiver and a runner made him a tough matchup for the Prairie View A&M defense and a key factor in the Bulldogs’ offensive resurgence.
Celebration Bowl Significance
The Celebration Bowl is a prestigious annual event that highlights the talent and tradition of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The game provides a national platform for these institutions and their football programs. South Carolina State’s victory and Smith’s MVP performance further elevate the profile of MEAC football.
Looking Ahead
Jordan Smith’s performance in the Celebration Bowl undoubtedly boosted his profile. As he continues his collegiate career, he is poised to become a prominent figure in college football. The South Carolina State Bulldogs will look to build on this momentum and continue their success in the MEAC.
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