In a thrilling showdown at Veterans Memorial Stadium, Troy football proved its mettle once again, securing a resounding 49-23 victory over Appalachian State in the 2023 Hercules Tires Sun Belt Football Championship Game. The Trojans (11-2) demonstrated exceptional prowess, not only defending their crown but also clinching their eighth Sun Belt Football Championship title, a record unmatched in the league's history.
The game showcased the tenacity and skill that define the Sun Belt Conference, and Troy head coach Jon Sumrall acknowledged the fierce competition within the league.
"If you look at our league top to bottom, I don’t think there is a Group of Five league like our league,"
Sumrall said.
"To win in this league is hard. There is no week off in this league. The coaching is elite. The talent is elite. The administrations support football the right way."
The catalyst for Troy's triumph was none other than junior running back Kimani Vidal, who not only earned the 2023 Sun Belt Conference Offensive Player of the Year but also claimed the Hercules Tires Sun Belt Football Championship Game Most Valuable Player title. Vidal's outstanding performance included rushing 26 times for an impressive 233 yards and an astounding five touchdowns, setting new standards for the Sun Belt's football title game.
Quarterback Gunnar Watson and wide receiver Chris Lewis also played pivotal roles in Troy's victory. Watson completed 16 of 24 passes for 192 yards and a touchdown, connecting with Lewis for a 51-yard touchdown strike. The defensive unit, led by Javon Solomon and Dell Pettus, showcased its prowess with critical tackles and sacks, contributing to the team's success.
The first quarter of the game made history with a scoreless display, highlighting the defensive resilience of both teams. However, Troy broke the deadlock with Vidal's seven-yard touchdown run, setting the tone for the Trojans' dominance.
Appalachian State made valiant efforts, with running back Kanye Roberts contributing a one-yard touchdown rush just before halftime. Roberts continued to play a key role in the second half, scoring another touchdown and keeping the Mountaineers in contention.
Nevertheless, Troy maintained control, with Vidal's powerful rushes and a notable defensive play by cornerback Don Callis, who recovered a fumble and returned it for a touchdown. The Trojans ultimately broke several records, including the highest point total (49) and the largest margin of victory (26 points) in Sun Belt Conference Championship Game history.
Vidal's exceptional performance left a lasting impression, not only breaking records for rushing yards and touchdowns in the championship game but also etching his name in Sun Belt Conference history. Sumrall praised Vidal, emphasizing not only his skill on the field but also his character, highlighting the importance of character in building successful players.
As the confetti fell and the celebrations ensued, Troy football solidified its status as a powerhouse in the Sun Belt Conference, capping off a remarkable season with a historic championship win.
