The 2023 Armed Forces Bowl was dramatically paused on Friday afternoon after Rice Owls safety Daveon Hook sustained a frightening head and neck injury. The postseason clash between Rice and Texas State at Fort Worth's Amon G. Carter Stadium was already marred by a bizarre pre-game incident involving a parachutist landing in the stands, setting a chaotic tone for the day.
Game Stopped for Medical Emergency
During the third quarter, the game came to a standstill following a brutal tackle on Hook by a Texas State player. ESPN cameras captured the moment of impact, showing Hook being struck in the head and neck area. Footage then showed the player lying on the turf, where he attempted to readjust his helmet before medical personnel rushed to his aid.
Hook remained on the field for approximately ten minutes while receiving urgent medical attention. His Rice Owls teammates gathered around him in a show of support before he was stabilised, placed on a stretcher, and carted off the field to applause from players and fans alike. He had recorded two tackles in the game prior to his injury.
Outpouring of Support on Social Media
Almost immediately, concerned fans took to social media platform X to express their shock and send prayers for Hook's recovery. One user wrote, 'That Daveon Hook injury is genuinely terrifying. So so so many prayers for him.' Another added, 'Praying for Daveon Hook of Rice what a scary situation man,' reflecting the widespread alarm.
The collective sentiment was one of deep concern, with messages like 'Terrible for Daveon Hook. Hope he's ok' and 'Praying for Daveon Hook on Rice will be okay after seeing that massive hard hit against Texas State in the Armed Forces Bowl' flooding timelines.
Texas State Secures Decisive Victory
On the field, the Texas State Bobcats capitalised on their momentum, turning a narrow 10-7 halftime lead into a commanding victory. They dominated the second half to eventually win the bowl game 41-10.
Bobcats quarterback Brad Jackson was instrumental in the win, delivering an efficient performance by completing 16 of his 23 passes for 166 yards and three touchdowns. The result capped a dramatic and sombre day in Fort Worth, where the focus remained firmly on the wellbeing of the injured Rice Owls star.
