Shreveport-Native John Hoyet Chance Named the Inaugural Utility Player of the Game Presented by Delta Utilities

SHREVEPORT, La. (Jan. 6, 2026) – The Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl awarded a new recognition for the first time in 2025 – the Utility Player of the Game presented by Delta Utilities, and the first ever winner of the award is Shreveport-native and Louisiana Tech punter John Hoyet Chance. He was announced as the Utility Player of the Game on the field after the conclusion of Louisiana Tech’s 23-14 victory over Coastal Carolina in the 2025 Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl.

Chance punted the ball eight times for a total of 396 yards, an average of 49.5 yards per punt. The Captain Shreve grad also made a 51-yard field goal, which is the second longest field goal in Independence Bowl history. He also had four touchbacks on six kickoffs for a total of 371 yards.

“The Utility Player of the Game reflects commitment and reliability – qualities that are central to our work at Delta Utilities, said Delta Utilities CEO Tim Poché. “Just as this player steps up wherever needed, our team works behind the scenes to provide safe, reliable service to our communities. We’re proud to partner with the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl to celebrate these values on and off the field.”

The Bulldogs (8-5) shook off a sluggish first three quarters offensively to capture their second Independence Bowl victory since 2019 and fourth overall. After being held to 150 yards total offense and two field goals through three quarters, Louisiana Tech piled up 147 yards and its only two touchdowns of the game in the final stanza.

The Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl thanks Delta Utilities for presenting the inaugural Delta Utilities Utility Player of the Game in 2025. Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl fans can visit OpportunityLouisiana.com 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. The 49th edition will kick off on Tuesday, December 30 at 1 p.m. CST on ESPN. Radiance Technologies is the bowl’s title sponsor through at least the 2027 Bowl Season. The bowl’s conference and television agreements also run through the 2025 bowl game. 

The Independence Bowl Foundation is prevalent in the Shreveport-Bossier City area throughout the year, hosting events to help 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.