By Damian Mitchell
Sports Editor
NEW ORLEANS — Former Hewitt-Trussville quarterback Zac Thomas led the Appalachian State Mountaineers to a 45-13 victory over the Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders in the New Orleans Bowl. In addition to the bowl victory, Thomas also received the Most Valuable Player for his performance.
Thomas finished 15 for 24 with 177 yards and three touchdowns passing. He added 28 yards rushing and even added a receiving touchdown after a trick play by the Mountaineers as wide receiver Malik Williams found Thomas for an eight-yard score.
The Mountaineers finished their season 11-2 and have won four straight bowl games. Thomas also led the team to their first outright Sun Belt Conference championship earlier this season.