Southern Miss defense falters in decisive losses, putting their Sun Belt Championship hopes in jeopardy. Can the Golden Eagles recover their defensive edge against Troy with the title on the line? Dave Schultz examines Southern Miss' defensive struggles, spotlighting their inability to force turnovers against Texas State and South Alabama while questioning whether injuries or lack of pressure are to blame. The episode previews Southern Miss vs. Troy—a winner-take-all showdown—breaking down Braylon Braxton’s injury status, Vegas odds surprises, and Troy quarterback Goose Crowder’s recent success. Additional highlights include JMU’s second-half rally over Washington State, ODU’s dominant ground attack against Georgia Southern, and coaching speculation impacting Sun Belt contenders. Schultz poses compelling questions about Southern Miss’ path forward and potential shifts in the conference landscape. Can Southern Miss reclaim their identity and seize a spot in the Sun Belt Championship? Find out in this action-packed breakdown.

In one of the most adrenaline-fueled Sun Belt matchups of the season, the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns secured a gritty 34-30 victory over Arkansas State, capped by a heart-pounding goal-line stand. Momentum swung wildly throughout the contest, with turnovers and coaching decisions shaping every quarter.

The College Football Playoff committee doesn’t keep its stories straight.  They change the standards or criteria based on who they are asked about.  Strength of schedule, good wins, bad losses - which is it? Lots on the line between Arkansas State & Louisiana Thursday night.  The Red Wolves become bowl eligible with a win.  The Cajuns would make it 3 straight wins and finish the season hosting ULM to make it to a bowl. Troy surprises San Diego State in 2 OT and James Madison with a big win over their former conference rival, Towson.

College football coaches command guaranteed contracts worth millions, but are they truly irreplaceable? Host Dave Schultz challenges the conventional wisdom. Arguing most coaches deliver similar results despite massive salary differences. The discussion examines JMU Dukes football's exclusion from the College Football Playoff rankings despite strong computer metrics, while Tulane claims the 24th spot as the highest Group of 6 team. Schultz breaks down the committee's inconsistent logic regarding quality losses and questions why JMU's cleaner record doesn't earn recognition. The episode delivers a comprehensive Week 13 Sun Belt Conference football preview, featuring Louisiana's injury crisis heading into Thursday night's matchup at Arkansas State, plus analysis of Saturday games including JMU hosting Washington State, App State's bowl eligibility fight at Marshall, and South Carolina facing Coastal Carolina. Sun Belt basketball updates round out the coverage, including JMU's victory over Towson and Georgia Southern's narrow loss to Georgia Tech. Tune in for unfiltered analysis on coaching contracts, playoff politics, and the week's biggest Sun Belt Conference matchups.

GEORGIA SOUTHERN EAGLES surge to three wins in four games behind OJ ARNOLD's explosive 267-yard rushing performance in a 45-40 shootout against COASTAL CAROLINA. Can the Eagles finish 7-5 after their disastrous 2-4 start? DAVE SCHULTZ breaks down Week 12 Sun Belt Conference action, analyzing GEORGIA SOUTHERN's remarkable turnaround under CLAY HELTON, SOUTH ALABAMA JAGUARS' comeback victory over ULM featuring BISHOP DAVENPORT's performance, and MARSHALL THUNDERING HERD's win against GEORGIA STATE. The discussion covers critical bowl eligibility mathematics for multiple Sun Belt teams, TONY GIBSON's impressive first-year coaching at MARSHALL, and the controversial College Football Playoff rankings debate between JAMES MADISON DUKES, NORTH TEXAS MEAN GREEN, and TULANE GREEN WAVE. Key topics include coaching performance in the NIL and transfer portal era, strength of schedule analysis using SP+ rankings and ESPN's FPI, and whether CHARLES HUFF deserves Sun Belt Coach of the Year honors at SOUTHERN MISS. Tune in for comprehensive Sun Belt football analysis and playoff implications that extend beyond the Power Four conferences.

JMU Dukes demolish App State 58-10 to clinch the Sun Belt East division championship. Can the Dukes make a legitimate College Football Playoff push? Dave Schultz breaks down James Madison's dominant defensive performance that held Appalachian State to just 29 yards through three quarters, plus Jobi Malary's explosive three-touchdown outing. The analysis covers Southern Miss's shocking 41-14 collapse against Texas State, examining how the Golden Eagles' defense allowed 366 first-half yards and failed to execute the backup quarterback theory. Key discussions include complex Sun Belt West division tiebreaker scenarios between Troy, Arkansas State, and Southern Miss, plus Louisiana's potential bowl eligibility turnaround under Mike Desormeaux. Schultz also provides early college basketball updates for South Alabama's 5-0 start, Marshall's blowout loss to Virginia, and JMU's struggles at 2-3. Tune in for a comprehensive Sun Belt Conference analysis covering playoff implications, championship race scenarios, and turnover margins' impact on winning football games.

Sun Belt Conference football enters Week 12 with trap and let-down games lurking and upset potential brewing across multiple matchups. Can SOUTHERN MISS maintain their five-game winning streak against a desperate TEXAS STATE squad that's lost five straight but remains dangerously competitive? Host DAVE SCHULTZ breaks down the most precarious situations facing conference contenders, including JMU's seven-game winning streak facing a fading APP STATE squad in front of a sold-out crowd, MARSHALL's two-game skid before visiting GEORGIA STATE, and COASTAL CAROLINA's four-game hot streak before crucial rivalry games. The analysis covers ARKANSAS STATE's scheduling advantage with 12 days to prepare for LOUISIANA, the SOUTHERN MISS defense's six-turnover performance earning DoorDash MVP honors, and why teams like SOUTH ALABAMA and TEXAS STATE refuse to mail it in despite disappointing records. Schultz examines how NIL money and transfer portal opportunities keep players competing hard on tape, plus Sun Belt basketball updates and the ongoing ESPN-YouTube TV carriage dispute affecting viewers. Tune in for comprehensive Week 12 predictions and insights on which Sun Belt football teams are positioned for late-season surges.

SOUTHERN MISS GOLDEN EAGLES stun the Sun Belt with CHARLES HUFF's historic turnaround. Can they reach 10 wins and claim Coach of the Year honors? Host DAVE SCHULTZ breaks down SOUTHERN MISS FOOTBALL's remarkable transformation from 1-11 to a potential 10-2 finish, highlighting quarterback BRAYLON BRAXTON's impact and the nation's best interception rate. The discussion covers ODU MONARCHS versus TROY TROJANS in Thursday night's nationally televised matchup, examining why TROY is a 12.5-point underdog despite their strong conference record. Schultz addresses JMU DUKES' controversial exclusion from the College Football Playoff rankings while USF and CINCINNATI earned spots, analyzing G5 playoff worthiness and comparing Sun Belt versus American Athletic Conference resumes. Key topics include TUCKER KILGREASE and GOOSE CROWDER's quarterback battle, the myth of playing a "complete game," and bold predictions for G5 teams in playoff matchups. Tune in for expert analysis on Sun Belt Conference football's most compelling storylines and playoff implications.

CHARLES HUFF transforms SOUTHERN MISS from 1-11 to a championship contender. Does his historic turnaround trump BOB CHESNEY's dominant JMU season for the SUN BELT Coach of the Year? DAVE SCHULTZ breaks down why expectations matter most in coaching awards, comparing HUFF's remarkable SOUTHERN MISS GOLDEN EAGLES rebuild to CHESNEY's JAMES MADISON DUKES dominance. The analysis covers CONFERENCE USA's lawsuit against LOUISIANA TECH over their SUN BELT departure, examining the $5.2 million distribution controversy and delayed 2026 entry. Week 12 previews highlight TEXAS STATE's resilience despite PAC-12 move rumors, COASTAL CAROLINA's four-game winning streak positioning them for a stunning finish, and critical matchups including TROY at OLD DOMINION and GEORGIA SOUTHERN versus COASTAL CAROLINA. Key discussions include why playing a complete 60 minutes is overrated when opponents are fighting back, MARSHALL THUNDERING HERD's bounce-back opportunity, and whether TEXAS STATE is truly mailing it in or simply facing tough competition. Tune in for expert SUN BELT CONFERENCE analysis on coaching excellence, conference realignment drama, and which teams are exceeding expectations heading into championship season.

Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns face devastating suspensions after Texas State brawl. Did the Sun Belt Conference get it wrong? Host Dave Schultz breaks down the controversial post-game altercation between Texas State and Louisiana football teams, questioning why the Ragin' Cajuns received disproportionately harsh penalties despite Texas State initiating the fight. Starting safety Tyrese Skipper's season-ending suspension and the loss of Courtline Flowers cripple Louisiana's secondary, while Texas State's Tymere Jackson gets just two games. Schultz criticizes Sun Belt Commissioner Keith Gill's refusal to explain the investigation findings or justify the disciplinary decisions. The episode also covers Coastal Carolina's impressive turnaround to bowl eligibility behind quarterback Samara Kieran's dual-threat performance against Georgia State, their upcoming trap game against South Carolina on SEC Network, and Southern Miss basketball's heartbreaking overtime loss after surrendering 16 three-pointers to South Carolina. Tune in for an unfiltered analysis of the Sun Belt Conference's handling of player discipline and what it means for Louisiana's championship hopes.

JMU Dukes crack the AP Poll at #24 after defeating Marshall Thundering Herd 35-23. Can James Madison secure the Group of 5 playoff spot? Host Dave Schultz breaks down JMU's first-ever ranking and defends their resume against American Conference critics, highlighting their lack of bad losses compared to UNT, Memphis, and Tulane. The analysis covers Southern Miss Golden Eagles taking control of the Sun Belt West Division with a turnover-filled 27-21 victory over Arkansas State Red Wolves, featuring backup quarterback Landry's clutch 76-yard touchdown. Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns' offensive resurgence takes center stage with their 42-39 win over Texas State Bobcats, as third-string quarterback Lunch Winfield and receiver Shelton Sampson lead a crucial fourth-quarter drive. Key topics include Marshall's competitive performance against the Dukes, the Sun Belt versus American Conference playoff debate, and why Mike Desormeaux's potential bowl appearance would rank among the best coaching jobs in Louisiana football history. Tune in for this comprehensive Sun Belt Conference football analysis and playoff implications.

JMU DUKES football has pitched shutouts in four consecutive second halves. Can the MARSHALL THUNDERING HERD avoid becoming their fifth victim in Week 11? DAVE SCHULTZ breaks down the JAMES MADISON DUKES' defensive dominance and previews critical SUN BELT CONFERENCE matchups, including the TEXAS STATE BOBCATS' final chance to beat LOUISIANA RAGIN' CAJUNS as conference members after heartbreaking near-misses in 2023 and 2024. The analysis covers COASTAL CAROLINA CHANTICLEERS' three-game winning streak under TIM BECK, SOUTHERN MISS GOLDEN EAGLES versus ARKANSAS STATE RED WOLVES in a West Division showdown, and College Football Playoff implications for G5 teams. Key topics include LUNCH WINFIELD's offensive resurgence for Louisiana, Texas State's brutal four-game losing streak, and Marshall's five-turnover collapse that could foreshadow disaster against JMU's second-half defense. Tune in for comprehensive Sun Belt football previews, basketball scores, and insider perspectives on coaching adjustments reshaping the conference landscape.

Arkansas State Red Wolves stun doubters with four-game winning streak after disastrous start. Can Butch Jones lead the Red Wolves to a Sun Belt West Division title? Head coach Butch Jones breaks down Arkansas State's remarkable turnaround from a four-game skid to conference contention, revealing how 70 newcomers and brutal non-conference scheduling shaped their season. The discussion covers the team's defensive improvements, their gritty road victories, and the crucial Week 11 showdown against the Southern Miss Golden Eagles that will determine the division leader. Jones offers an insider perspective on his relationship with Southern Miss coach Charles Huff and why the Golden Eagles are essentially Marshall's defending championship team relocated. Dave Schultz also analyzes the App State Mountaineers versus Georgia Southern Eagles Thursday night rivalry, provides betting insights on the Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns hosting Texas State Bobcats, and examines whether James Madison Dukes can cover against Marshall Thundering Herd. Tune in for expert analysis on how Arkansas State overcame adversity and what's at stake in the Sun Belt Conference race.

SOUTHERN MISS GOLDEN EAGLES head coach CHARLES HUFF reveals his blueprint for building championship culture through relationships, not slogans. Can faith and fear of failure coexist as sources of coaching confidence? HUFF breaks down the GOLDEN EAGLES' nation-leading 19 turnovers this season, addressing critics who question whether the defense is genuinely elite or simply lucky. The discussion covers defensive coordinator JASON SEYMOUR's philosophy that only turnovers and explosive plays determine outcomes, HUFF's game day approach of letting coordinators handle play-calling while he enjoys the moment, and his systematic preparation for early kickoffs, including 6AM meetings and sports psychology protocols. Key insights include ARKANSAS STATE RED WOLVES quarterback JAYLEN RAYNOR's evolution as a dual-threat, BUTCH JONES' success turning around the RED WOLVES' four-game winning streak, and why HUFF spends 90% of his time on mental disposition rather than X's and O's. Discover how HUFF's experiences at MARSHALL, PENN STATE, ALABAMA, and MISSISSIPPI STATE shaped his coaching philosophy ahead of this crucial SUN BELT CONFERENCE West Division showdown.

COASTAL CAROLINA CHANTICLEERS football stuns critics with remarkable turnaround from 0-3 start to Sun Belt East title contention. Can TIM BECK's squad sustain their momentum? Head Coach TIM BECK breaks down the CHANTICLEERS' dramatic season resurrection, revealing how quarterback changes, strategic simplification, and proper recovery transformed a team that scored just 20 points in three games into conference contenders. The discussion covers the four-quarterback carousel featuring TAD HUDSON, SAMARI COLLIER, and M.J. MORRIS, the stunning 44-27 victory over MARSHALL with four third-quarter turnovers, and the critical mistakes made during their bye week preparation. BECK provides candid insights into modern college football's roster challenges, explaining why building chemistry takes time when players arrive after spring practice and teams lack traditional offseason development. Key topics include COASTAL CAROLINA's energy management using GPS monitoring systems. The episode also covers Sun Belt basketball's rough 4-9 performance in the MAC Challenge, with detailed analysis of TROY, SOUTH ALABAMA, and ARKANSAS STATE wins. Discover how BECK transformed a struggling program into a championship contender through strategic adjustments and player development.

ARKANSAS STATE RED WOLVES stun TROY TROJANS with dominant defensive performance. Can the RED WOLVES control their Sun Belt East destiny? DAVE SCHULTZ breaks down ARKANSAS STATE's upset victory, highlighting a defense that held TROY to under 200 yards and recorded nine sacks. The analysis covers quarterback JAYLEN RAYNOR's efficient performance, the RED WOLVES' four-game winning streak, and the crucial upcoming matchup against SOUTHERN MISS GOLDEN EAGLES. SCHULTZ also examines LOUISIANA RAGIN' CAJUNS' offensive explosion against SOUTH ALABAMA, questioning the JAGUARS' late-game clock management strategy, and discusses OLD DOMINION MONARCHS' concerning pattern of not finishing strong despite victories. Key topics include the Sun Belt East division race, SOUTHERN MISS at ARKANSAS STATE preview with playoff implications, and the Sun Belt-MAC Challenge tipping off the college basketball season. SCHULTZ provides betting insights and analyzes why SOUTHERN MISS opened as a 5-point road favorite despite ARKANSAS STATE's momentum. Tune in for comprehensive Sun Belt Conference football analysis and basketball season previews that Sun Belt fans can't miss.

Troy Trojans and Arkansas State Red Wolves clash Sunday night on ESPN in a battle of Sun Belt Conference hot streaks. Can Arkansas State QB Jaylen Raynor continue his clutch fourth-quarter heroics against Tucker Kilcrease and Troy's home dominance? Dave Schultz breaks down why this 7.5-point spread undervalues Arkansas State's three consecutive comeback victories and analyzes the statistical mirror match between these bowl-eligible programs. The discussion examines Louisiana Cajuns' offensive line struggles, South Alabama's devastating talent exodus through the portal including Ricky Fletcher and Gio Lopez, and Major Applewhite's close losses that define their season. Schultz makes a compelling case for JMU's College Football Playoff credentials over American Athletic Conference contenders Navy, Tulane, and Memphis, dissecting schedule strength rankings and quality wins while highlighting UAB's shocking upset of Memphis. Key topics include Southern Miss defensive statistics context, conference championship scenarios, and bowl elimination stakes for Louisiana versus South Alabama. Tune in for comprehensive Sun Belt football analysis and playoff debate that challenges conventional conference rankings.

MARSHALL THUNDERING HERD face COASTAL CAROLINA CHANTICLEERS in a midweek showdown that could reshape the Sun Belt Conference race. Can two teams that started rough but surged late continue their momentum on national television? Dave Schultz breaks down how MARSHALL and COASTAL CAROLINA have defied college football norms by improving dramatically mid-season, analyzing quarterback CARLOS DEL RIO-WILSON's explosive offense and COASTAL's improbable turnaround with their third-string signal caller. The discussion covers JAMES MADISON's surging College Football Playoff buzz, LOUISIANA CAJUNS' quarterback disaster against TROY, and ARKANSAS STATE RED WOLVES' critical path to the Sun Belt Western Division title. Key matchups include SOUTH ALABAMA versus LOUISIANA, OLD DOMINION at ULM, and how MEMPHIS and TULANE losses could open the playoff door for JMU. Tune in for expert predictions on every Week 9 Sun Belt matchup and discover why winning on the road matters more than avoiding trap games.

JMU Dukes continue their second-half defensive dominance with a commanding 52-20 victory over Texas State, marking their fourth consecutive second-half shutout. Can JAMES MADISON crash the College Football Playoff conversation despite being unranked? Host DAVE SCHULTZ breaks down JMU's suffocating defense that held Texas State to just 74 yards after halftime. The analysis examines JMU's playoff chances compared to American Athletic Conference contenders like Navy, Tulane, and Memphis, while addressing how the Sun Belt Conference's overall weakness impacts their national perception. The discussion shifts to the coaching carousel plaguing college football, from Power 4 programs like LSU, Florida, and Penn State down to Sun Belt schools, exploring how unrealistic expectations and massive buyouts are reshaping the sport's landscape. Discover why JMU's defensive adjustments and the transfer portal's impact could redefine college football's competitive balance this season.

SUN BELT SHOWDOWN: JMU's defensive prowess faces Texas State's high-octane offense. Can the JAMES MADISON DUKES maintain their playoff hopes? Dave Schultz breaks down the JMU DUKES vs TEXAS STATE BOBCATS matchup, highlighting key stats and predicting a close contest. The discussion covers ODU's surprising victory over APP STATE, featuring Colton Joseph's clutch 70-yard touchdown pass. Schultz then tackles the escalating issue of college football coach salaries, examining Brian Kelly's potential $54 million LSU buyout and its ripple effects across the sport. Tune in for an in-depth analysis of Sun Belt football's latest developments and the broader implications for college athletics.