Introduction
The Jackson State University football team is one of the most successful in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). The team has won 16 conference championships and has produced several NFL players. In recent years, the team has been rebuilding under head coach John Hendrick. Fans and alumni are eagerly waiting to see if Jackson State will be able to play in a bowl game in 2020.
What is a Bowl Game?
A bowl game is a post-season college football game that is typically played in December or early January. The games feature some of the best teams from different conferences and are usually sponsored by corporations. Bowl games are a way to reward teams for having successful seasons and to generate revenue for the participating schools and the host cities.
Jackson State's Bowl Game History
Jackson State has a rich football history that includes several bowl game appearances. The team has played in the Heritage Bowl, the Southwestern Athletic Conference Championship Game, and the Capital City Classic. However, Jackson State has not played in a bowl game since the 2013 SWAC Championship Game.
Can Jackson State Play in a Bowl Game in 2020?
The short answer is yes, Jackson State can play in a bowl game in 2020. However, there are several factors that will determine whether or not the team will be selected. First, the team must have a winning record. Second, there must be an available bowl game spot. Finally, the bowl game committee must select Jackson State over other eligible teams.
Jackson State's 2020 Season
The 2020 college football season has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many conferences, including the SWAC, have postponed their seasons until the spring of 2021. Jackson State's schedule has not been announced yet, but the team is expected to play a reduced number of games. This could make it difficult for the team to meet the winning record requirement for bowl game eligibility.
Available Bowl Game Spots
There are over 40 bowl games that are played each year. However, not all bowl games are available to all teams. Some bowl games are reserved for teams from specific conferences or have agreements with certain schools. The SWAC does not have any automatic bowl game bids, which means that Jackson State will have to be selected by a bowl game committee.
Bowl Game Selection Process
The bowl game selection process is complicated and involves several factors. Bowl game committees consider a team's record, strength of schedule, fan base, and geographic location when making their selections. They also consider the financial impact that a team will have on the bowl game and the host city. Jackson State will have to make a strong case to be selected over other eligible teams.
Conclusion
Playing in a bowl game is a great achievement for any college football team. Jackson State has a strong football tradition and a passionate fan base, which could make the team an attractive candidate for bowl game selection. However, the team will have to have a winning record and make a strong case to be selected by a bowl game committee. Fans and alumni will be eagerly waiting to see if the team will be able to play in a bowl game in 2020.