Coach Hopson appreciates Golden Eagle fans

NEW ORLEANS - Southern Miss played Louisiana Lafayette in the R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl Saturday at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, and came out on top.

The Golden Eagles beat the Rajin' Cajuns, 28-21.

Many fans showed up to the game and supported their Golden Eagles. Head coach, Jay Hopson was very happy not only with the victory, but was also happy for the fan base.

"Our fan base has been just amazing all year. These guys can tell you, the coaches can tell you, just coming through Eagle Walk from game one 'til all the way to the last game of the season. Our fans have been there. They came down. We knew it was big. We couldn't get the bus out of the Hilton. The fans were blocking the street way. So, we were like 'it's going to be a good crowd tonight.' It took us 15 minutes just to get out of the hotel on the bus,” said Hopson.

“I just want to thank that Southern Miss fan base for putting all that gold in the streets. And they don't know how much we appreciate it and appreciate them coming out and supporting us. It means a lot to us, and it helps us tremendously," said Hopson.

With this win, Southern Miss now has enjoyed its 69th winning season in the 100-year playing history of the program.

Hopson is now tied for the third-most among first year head coaches at Southern Miss with seven wins.