Southern Miss wins New Orleans Bowl

NEW ORLEANS - Southern Miss defeated Louisiana Lafayette, 28-21 in this year’s R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl.

The Golden Eagles had a fast start in this game. And from there, things were clicking for them.

Head coach, Jay Hopson said, "It's fair to say we came in here wanting to put the ball in the air a little bit. Those plays were big. Anytime you get explosive plays like that right off the jump, gives you a lot of momentum."

The two big-time catches wide receiver, Allenzae Staggers made enabled running back, Ito Smith to score two total touchdowns in the first quarter.

"Our guys just turned up and took it to another level. The offensive line did a great job. We had the pass game. We were just clicking on all cylinders," said Smith.

The Rajin' Cajuns scored two unanswered touchdowns in the first half.

But, USM wasn't fazed.

Smith scored his second rushing touchdown. And staggers caught a touchdown pass, which added to his 11 catches and 230 receiving yards performance, enabling him to be the MVP of the game.

"It just was a blessing. I just was open. We executed the plays. We had great precision," said Staggers.

The Golden Eagles have now won its last 4/5 R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl games and have extended their winning streak against the Rajin' Cajuns to nine.