The college football bowl season kicks off with a bang as the Cricket Celebration Bowl features the Jackson State Tigers facing off against the South Carolina State Bulldogs at noon on Saturday.

The Tigers are riding a wave of momentum into the bowl game, having clinched their third SWAC conference championship with a resounding 41-13 victory over the Southern Jaguars. This triumph, despite an early setback with quarterback Jacobian Morgan’s injury, was a testament to the team’s resilience and depth, with backup Zy McDonald stepping up to lead the offense effectively. McDonald’s 54.5% completion rate, one touchdown, one interception, and a rushing touchdown for 95 yards further underscore the Tigers’ readiness for the Cricket Celebration Bowl.

The Bulldogs are entering bowl season with a 9-2 record, having secured the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference title. The offense is spearheaded by Eric Phoenix, a transfer from Murray State. In his first season with the Bulldogs, Phoenix delivered an impressive performance, achieving a 65.3% completion rate with 2,469 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and seven interceptions.

Here is everything to know ahead of the Cricket Celebration Bowl.

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Cricket Celebration Bowl predictions: Jackson State vs. South Carolina State

Clarion Ledger: South Carolina State 27, Jackson State 23

Sam Sklar writes: “It’s difficult to pick weaknesses from each team. Jackson State has already won games this season despite quarterback attrition. But with Morgan’s status unknown, the Tigers’ offense has a slow start that it can’t overcome.”

College Football News: Jackson State 27, South Carolina State 24

Fiu Bluesky writes: “This game never seems to disappoint – it was 7 in our How Good Was Your Bowl? rankings last year – and this time is should be just as strong. Jackson State isn’t as good as it was in the Coach Prime era, but those 2021 and 2022 teams both lost. Both teams are explosive, both have a terrific defense, but Jackson State has a bit more power to go with the flash.”

Picks and Parlays: South Carolina State Bulldogs win 27-17

Eddie Kline writes: “South Carolina State has won seven straight games and has scored 107 points total in their last two contests. Jackson State has one three of the previous four SWAC Conference Championships and has been on this stage. Look for the Bulldogs to pull off the upset and give the MEAC its seventh win in the last nine games in this bowl. Final Score Prediction, South Carolina State Bulldogs win 27-17.”

Cricket Celebration Bowl odds, lines: Jackson State vs. South Carolina State

The Jacksonville State Tigers are favorites to defeat the South Carolina State Bulldogs, according to the BetMGM college football odds.

Odds as of afternoon of Friday, Dec. 13.

• Spread: South Carolina State (-2.5)
• Moneylines: South Carolina State (-130); Jackson State (-120); South Carolina State (+110)
• Over/under: 53.5

How to watch Jackson State vs. South Carolina State in the Cricket Celebration Bowl

• Date: Saturday, Dec. 14
• Time: 12 p.m. ET
• TV: ABC
• Stream: Fubo
• Where: Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta, GA)

Stream Live: Catch College Bowl games with a Fubo subscription

Tickets to the Cricket Celebration Bowl with StubHub

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