Chanticleers Triumph Over Appalachian State, 38-24
CONWAY, S.C. — The Coastal Carolina Chanticleers celebrated a strong performance against their Sun Belt East rivals, Appalachian State, by winning 38-24 on Thursday night. This victory marked the Chanticleers’ third consecutive win over the Mountaineers, solidifying their dominance in this matchup.
Coastal Carolina’s offense showcased skill and power, rushing for 203 yards and scoring four touchdowns. Braydon Bennett was the standout player, making a significant impact with a career-high of three rushing touchdowns on just nine carries for 88 yards. This achievement brought Bennett’s total career rushing touchdowns to 23, placing him tied for fifth on Coastal’s all-time rushing touchdown list alongside former teammate Reese White.
Quarterback Grayson Vasko also contributed to the victory, running for one touchdown and totaling 53 rushing yards on 13 carries. He completed an impressive 14 of 18 passes for 150 yards and threw for another touchdown.
On defense, Clev Lubin had a remarkable night with nine tackles, including 3.5 tackles for loss and three sacks, leading the Chanticleers’ defensive effort.
Appalachian State was eager to claim their first win in Conway since 2018 and fought back after falling behind 17-0. They managed to get within one score before halftime, but Coastal’s defense was pivotal, forcing three turnovers that resulted in 17 points for the Chanticleers.
The game started with quick momentum from Coastal, who executed a seven-play, 68-yard drive that Bennett capped off with a touchdown. The defense struck early as well, with Lubin forcing a strip sack that allowed Naejaun Barber to recover the ball, setting up Bennett’s second touchdown moments later, extending the lead to 14-0.
Coastal continued to apply pressure, forcing a second turnover, which led to a Kade Hensley field goal, putting them ahead 17-0 early in the game. Although Appalachian State scored 10 points before halftime to bring the score to 17-10, Coastal opened the second half with a lengthy drive that resulted in Bennett’s third touchdown, allowing them to pull away.
After forcing yet another turnover, Coastal scored again, this time with Vasko’s keeper making it 31-10. Despite a late attempt by Appalachian State to close the gap, Coastal sealed the victory when Jameson Tucker caught a six-yard touchdown pass.
The Chanticleers will return to the field on November 16 for a matchup against Marshall, aiming to keep their winning streak alive.