News & Notes: Independence Bowl Alumni Shine in Super Bowl LX

Craig Woodson (Cal #2) in the 2023 Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl vs. Texas Tech. (Photo: Steve Mauldin Photography)

SHREVEPORT, La. (Feb. 9, 2026) – The Seattle Seahawks dominated the New England Patriots, 29-13, in Super Bowl LX on Sunday, February 8, in a game that featured five former Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl players on the active rosters. Two Independence Bowl alumni added their names to the list of Super Bowl champions – wide receiver Jake Bobo (Duke, 2018) and running back Cam Akers (Florida State, 2017).

Bobo played 16 offensive snaps and 19 special teams snaps in the game. He did not record any offensive statistics, but he finished the game with one tackle on special teams. Akers, who was making his second Super Bowl appearance, did not play on offense, but he played four snaps on special teams for the Seahawks. Akers was added to the active roster on Sunday after he was elevated from the practice squad.

Despite being on the losing side, the three Independence Bowl alumni on the Patriots had a major impact on the game. Center Garrett Bradbury (NC State, 2016) made his 21st start of the season for New England between the regular season and postseason.

The two Independence Bowl alumni on the Patriots’ defense did their best to keep New England in the game. Rookie safety Craig Woodson (California, 2023) finished second amongst all players in the game in combined tackles with 10. He also led the game with three tackles for loss (TFL), while also recording two pass deflections (PD). Defensive tackle Milton Williams (Louisiana Tech, 2019) made his third Super Bowl appearance and was looking for his second Super Bowl victory. He tallied two tackles, both TFL, and had one sack and one PD.

Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl fans can visit OpportunityLouisiana.gov to explore why Louisiana businesses are positioned to win. 

ABOUT THE RADIANCE TECHNOLOGIES INDEPENDENCE BOWL™

Established in 1976, the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl™ is college football’s 11th most historic bowl game, with the 50th anniversary set for 2026. The Louisiana Tech Bulldogs defeated the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers, 23-14, in the 49th edition on December 30, 2025. Radiance Technologies is the bowl’s title sponsor through at least the 2027 Bowl Season. 

The Independence Bowl Foundation is a prominent presence in the Shreveport-Bossier City area throughout the year, hosting events to enhance the economic impact and growth of our community. The Mission of the Independence Bowl is to attract and provide quality, nationally recognized football competition oriented to the Ark-La-Tex region. For more information, visit RadianceTechnologiesIndependenceBowl.com or follow the bowl on Facebook, X and Instagram at @IndyBowl.