Kennesaw State University (No. 1 in Conference USA) Vs. Western Michigan University (No. 1 in Mid-American Conference)
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C.— The Myrtle Beach Bowl presented by Engine returns for its sixth year on Friday, Dec. 19, 2025, at 11 a.m., with the Kennesaw State Owls of Georgia (Conference USA Champion) facing off with the Western Michigan Broncos of Kalamazoo, Mich. (Mid-American Conference Champion). This year’s bowl matchup features the only Conference Champion versus Conference Champion game outside of the College Football Playoffs. Tickets are available now at MyrtleBeachBowlGame.com.
“Fans can expect an unforgettable game that showcases the best of college football outside the playoffs and one of our best matchups in the history of the Myrtle Beach Bowl with both teams ending their season at the top of their conference,” said Visit Myrtle Beach President Stuart Butler. “The excitement is already building for football fans who are anticipating an exceptional battle of champions between the 10-win Owls and 9-win Broncos.”
The game will be played on the “Surf Turf,” the teal-colored field at Brooks Stadium on the scenic campus of Coastal Carolina University in Conway, S.C. Gates open at 9 a.m., and the complimentary fan fest outside the stadium begins at 8 a.m. Parking, shuttle and stadium policy details are available at goccusports.com.
Along with the on-field showdown, fans can enjoy the complimentary pep rally at The Hangout from 3-5 p.m. with players, coaches, bands, cheer squads and mascots.
New this year, the bowl game has partnered with Champion Autism Network Inc. (CAN) to offer a dedicated sensory-friendly, quiet space inside the stadium for families to take a break from the fan revelry.
Community Impact
The Myrtle Beach Bowl presented by Engine isn’t just a game, it’s a boost for our local economy and a celebration of community pride, Butler said.
“Thousands of visiting fans, teams and media professionals will fill hotels, dine in local restaurant, and shop at area businesses, generating significant revenue for the Grand Strand during the winter season,” he said. “This influx of visitors supports jobs, small business, and generates tax revenue for locals services and infrastructure. Beyond the economic benefits, the event enhances our quality of life by bringing us world-class entertainment and sports to our doorstep.”
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Interesting Matchup Facts:
Kennesaw State University (KSU) added football in 2015
2024 was KSU’s first season in FBS (Conference USA)
Myrtle Beach Bowl presented by Engine is KSU’s first ever bowl game
Western Michigan University (WMU) has had a football team for 119 years
WMU has played in 12 prior bowl games (2-10)
WMU hasn’t played in the state of South Carolina since 1979
This will be the first-ever game between the Owls (10-3, 7-1 CUSA) and the Broncos (9-4, 7-1 MAC)
Some are calling this the G5 playoff since JMU and Tulane are in the playoff, and the mountain west champion team is not playing another conference champion
Additional Media Resources:
Myrtle Beach Bowl presented by Engine Press Releases and Media Credentials
Visit Myrtle Beach Media Contact: Marlane White, (843) 916-7295, Marlane.White@VisitMyrtleBeach.com
About Myrtle Beach, S.C.
Myrtle Beach isn't just a beach. It's The Beach. Popularly known as the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach is one destination made up of 14 unique communities that stretch 60 miles along the northeast coast of South Carolina. Families, couples and those in search of a warm welcome will find more than just a day at The Beach when they come together to connect and enjoy vibrant entertainment and family attractions, including world-class golf, shopping and fresh coastal Carolina cuisine. From the moment you arrive, you'll find you belong at The Beach – Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. For additional information on tourism offerings in the Myrtle Beach area, visit www.visitmyrtlebeach.com or call (888) Myrtle-1.