As the lights illuminate the Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas, on December 19, 2023, the stage is set for a thrilling clash between the UTSA Roadrunners and the Marshall Thundering Herd in the 6th edition of the Scooter’s Coffee Frisco Bowl. Kickoff is at 8 p.m. CT, and the battle will be broadcast live on ESPN.
UTSA, led by seventh-year senior quarterback Frank Harris and fourth-year coach Jeff Traylor, is on a mission to secure their first bowl victory in five attempts. Their opponent, Marshall, a seasoned contender with ten bowl appearances in the last eleven years, promises to provide a formidable challenge.
When Harris first graced the Scooter’s Coffee Frisco Bowl in his fifth year of college, little did anyone anticipate the journey that lay ahead. Now, in his seventh year, Harris and the Roadrunners are determined to rewrite their bowl history. UTSA finished third in the American Athletic Conference this season, showcasing the synergy between Harris and Coach Traylor, a duo synonymous with the team's success.
Traylor, with a coaching record of 38-14, expressed admiration for Marshall's consistent bowl appearances, setting a benchmark for UTSA's aspirations. "When you make a bowl 10 of the last 11 years, that’s incredible. That’s where we want to get to here at UTSA," Traylor remarked, highlighting the program's ambition.
Harris's journey, marked by resilience and dedication, encapsulates the essence of his commitment to UTSA. From overcoming knee injuries to contributing both on and off the field, Harris has become one of San Antonio's most beloved figures, idolized by fans young and old. His career stats boast nearly 12,000 passing yards, 92 passing touchdowns, 2,100 rushing yards, and 28 rushing touchdowns.
"Frank has done so much for UTSA and San Antonio because his love for his teammates, our university and the city is genuine,"
said Coach Traylor. "He’s been a joy to coach in my four years here, and I hope we can send him and all of our seniors off on the right foot at the bowl game."
As UTSA aims for their maiden bowl triumph, the Roadrunners face the challenge of containing Marshall, now part of the Sun Belt Conference. Marshall's formidable lineup includes 1,000-yard rusher Rasheen Ali and a receiving corps with six players boasting 20 or more catches.
Marshall coach Charles Huff acknowledged the prowess of UTSA and Harris, emphasizing the quarterback's experience and leadership on the field.
"He has command of that team, and they listen to him. That’s the kind of kid you want on any team,"
The matchup promises high-octane action with Harris's favorite target, Joshua Cephus, boasting 82 catches for 1,049 yards and nine touchdowns this season. Running back Robert Henry adds a ground threat with nine rushing touchdowns, while safety Rashad Wisdom anchors the defense with 58 tackles.
For UTSA, the bowl victory is not just a goal; it's a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and building a program that stands tall against the giants of college football. As the Scooter’s Coffee Frisco Bowl unfolds, all eyes will be on Harris, Traylor, and the Roadrunners, as they seek to etch their names in the annals of college football history.
