JACKSONVILLE, Ala. — In an exciting match on Saturday, Tyler Huff propelled Jacksonville State to a 21-11 victory over Sam Houston, securing the Gamecocks their inaugural spot in the Conference USA championship game.

The Gamecocks, with an impressive record of 8-3 and a perfect 7-0 in conference play, have marked their eighth consecutive win. They will conclude their regular-season schedule by facing Western Kentucky next Saturday. Meanwhile, the Bearkats, who also stand at 8-3 but hold a 5-2 conference record, are set to host Liberty on Friday.

Huff had an outstanding performance, accumulating 177 rushing yards on 30 carries while also completing 54 passing yards. His teammate Tre Stewart contributed notably with 99 rushing yards from 27 carries.

For the Bearkats, Hunter Watson made his mark by rushing for 102 yards and one touchdown on 21 carries, alongside 84 passing yards.

Huff’s scoring efforts included a significant 38-yard touchdown run that ensured a 14-3 lead at halftime for the Gamecocks. In the third quarter, Watson bridged the gap with a 21-yard rushing touchdown, narrowing the score to 14-11. The Bearkats then had a critical opportunity to take the lead when they recovered a fumble during a Jacksonville State punt return at the Gamecocks’ 14-yard line. However, they were unable to capitalize, losing 6 yards over three plays, resulting in a missed field-goal attempt.

Huff ultimately sealed the Gamecocks’ victory with a final touchdown on a 7-yard run, after leading a 14-play, 80-yard offensive drive early in the fourth quarter.