NDL: S31W12 - Coastal Carolina (35) at Marshall (41)
Coastal Carolina vs. Marshall
Article By: In a thrilling NCAA 25 matchup, the Marshall Thundering Herd edged out the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers 41-35 in a high-octane game that came down to the final moments. Here’s how the action unfolded:
First Half:
Marshall got off to a strong start, scoring 14 points in the first quarter and maintaining a 24-14 lead at halftime. The Thundering Herd’s offense was led by Braylon Braxton, who completed 29 of 36 passes for 373 yards and three touchdowns. Elijah Metcalf was a standout performer for Marshall, hauling in 5 catches for 131 yards and two touchdowns.
On the other side, Coastal Carolina relied heavily on its rushing attack. Christian Washington led the charge, rushing for 136 yards and a touchdown on 12 carries. Tray Taylor also made a significant impact, catching 5 passes for 183 yards, including two long touchdown receptions.
Second Half:
The game remained close through the third quarter, with both teams scoring 7 points each. Coastal Carolina came alive in the fourth quarter, scoring 14 unanswered points to tie the game at 35-35. The Chanticleers' offense, primarily powered by the run game, started to find its rhythm. Quarterback Braydon Bennett added a key touchdown on the ground, while Tray Taylor’s big-play ability kept Marshall’s defense on its heels.
However, Marshall responded in the clutch. Despite struggling with the run game (only 48 yards on 19 attempts), the Thundering Herd's passing game remained potent. Braxton connected with Toby Payne and Jordan Houston on key drives, setting up a game-winning touchdown late in the fourth.
Key Plays:
Turnovers: Coastal Carolina struggled with turnovers, committing three in the game (including a key interception), while Marshall turned it over just twice.
Red Zone: Marshall capitalized in the red zone, scoring two touchdowns and a field goal, while Coastal Carolina was limited to just one touchdown and one field goal.
Kicking: Both teams were perfect on extra points, but Marshall’s kicker, Rece Verhoff, nailed two clutch field goals, including a long 49-yard kick that extended their lead.
Defensive Standouts:
Coastal Carolina: Shane Bruce had a stellar game, recording 10 tackles and an interception, while Tobias Fletcher added a sack and 2 tackles for loss.
Marshall: Defensive lineman Deeve Harris led the way with 6 tackles, including a sack, and was crucial in pressuring Coastal Carolina's offense.
Final Thoughts:
This game was a hard-fought battle that showcased explosive offenses and resilient defenses. Coastal Carolina’s big-play ability, particularly from Taylor and Washington, kept them in the game, but Marshall’s efficient passing attack and timely defensive stops ultimately led to the victory. Braylon Braxton’s near-perfect performance in the passing game, coupled with crucial field goals from Verhoff, sealed the win for the Thundering Herd.
As the final whistle blew, Marshall emerged victorious, winning 41-35 in a game that lived up to the hype.