Locked On Sun Belt - Daily Podcast On Sun Belt Conference Football & Basketball

Georgia Southern Eagles wide receiver Josh Dallas sets the pace with a Sun Belt-leading 41 receptions—yet still searches for his first touchdown of the season.

Can the Eagles’ offense break through in the high-stakes “Deeper Than Hate” rivalry against App State?

Strategies shift, running backs shine in the red zone, and Dallas’ relentless drive raises questions: what will it take to get him into the end zone?

Dave Schultz spotlights Georgia Southern’s rollercoaster season, dissecting critical matchups against Clemson, Jacksonville State, Coastal Carolina, and JMU.

Key themes include offensive efficiency, Tell the Tru...

James Madison Dukes and Troy Trojans face high-stakes redemption after crushing losses, but will offensive woes and defensive breakdowns define their Thursday night clash?

JMU’s potent run game takes a hit with George Pettaway sidelined, while Troy struggles with quarterback injuries and underperforming wide receivers like Noreel White.

Miscommunication plagues the Troy secondary, leaving explosive plays on the table for opponents.

National recruiting director Tom Luginbill unpacks how decision-making—from field goal attempts to quarterback rotations between Camden Coleman and JC Evans—could tip the balance.

Key insights include Billy Napier...

Sun Belt football surprises shake up mid-season awards—can Louisiana Tech and Appalachian State sustain their momentum?

The conversation focused on standout performances, from George Pettaway’s explosive rushing for James Madison University to Camden Coleman’s command at quarterback, while Alonzo Jackson Jr. powers Louisiana Tech’s defensive resurgence.

Disappointments like Old Dominion and Troy are called out, raising questions about preseason projections and coaching expectations.

A key theme that emerged was the debate over the significance of stats like sacks versus tackles, with safety Joe Drew’s high tackle count prompting concerns f...

Sun Belt Conference faces a pivotal crossroads as rumors swirl around James Madison University’s potential early exit and the league’s bold expansion scenarios—will fans soon see 13, 14, or even 16 teams battling for conference supremacy?

Western Kentucky, Delaware, Liberty, and others emerge as possible contenders, setting up major realignment storylines and fierce debates about future membership and regional rivalries.

Dave Schultz breaks down the Sun Belt’s committee-driven search, the implications of JMU’s timetable, and whether simply adding teams is enough for long-term success.

The episode also spotlights Southern Miss and its $25 mi...

College football’s wildest season in years sets the stage for the upcoming 12-team playoff expansion—will chaos become the new normal?

Upsets, overtime thrillers, and unexpected contenders have fueled debate about which powerhouse—Miami, Georgia, or Ohio State—can clinch the national championship.

With exciting Sun Belt matchups and underdog payouts shaking up the landscape, the conversation explores why a single loss shouldn’t end a season, and how expanded playoffs could open doors for more programs.

Coaching reaction takes center stage as Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns Head Coach Mike Desormeaux addresses criticism and the fine...

Jacksonville State Gamecocks emerge as a hot topic for Sun Belt Conference expansion, reigniting the historic "Battle for the Old School Bell" rivalry with Troy and bringing a proven football pedigree into the heart of the Sun Belt footprint.

The conversation explores Jacksonville State’s success since joining Conference USA, their formidable facilities, and the program’s consistent competitive edge—key factors that could reshape league dynamics and spark new rivalries with programs like South Alabama.

But will Jacksonville State’s small-market profile and limited student base hinder their credentials? T

The debate weighs t...

Troy suffers a stunning defeat as ULM erases a late deficit—was it poor play-calling, soft defensive coverage, or sheer momentum swing?

Louisiana Tech remains undefeated in Sun Belt play after a shutdown of ODU, raising the question: should LA Tech now be considered conference favorites?

Odds, field goal stats, and offensive trends all come into play as the battle for Sun Belt supremacy heats up.

The conversation focused on App State's emotional win and their precarious "catbird seat" ahead of a high-stakes rivalry with Georgia Southern, while JMU’s title odds and sche...

Arkansas State nearly squanders a 17-point fourth quarter lead but narrowly defeats Georgia State 38-32 in a Sun Belt thriller.

Backup QB Aiden Pereira impresses after Cameran Brown goes down, almost engineering Georgia State’s comeback before a late interception seals the Red Wolves’ victory.

Is Arkansas State’s resilience a sign of growth—or a warning for bigger tests ahead?

The conversation focused on shocking upsets across the conference, including Southern Miss rallying past the Cajuns 35-31 and ULM stunning Troy with three touchdowns in the final minutes.

Key themes include...

Sun Belt shocks erupt as ULM stuns Troy with a last-minute scoring frenzy, while Southern Miss upsets Louisiana and Louisiana Tech blanks Old Dominion in a dominating shutout.

Is the Sun Belt West crown still up for grabs, or have these wild results set the stage for a dramatic season finale?

The conversation focused on Cajuns quarterback Lunch Winfield’s late-game struggles, Troy’s late collapse fueled by ULM’s explosive drives, and Louisiana Tech’s suffocating defense against a third-string ODU quarterback.

Key themes include the impact of critical turnovers, fluctuating odds to win t...

Big Ten and SEC set to dominate college football scheduling—can Big 12, ACC, and Group of Six conferences stay competitive?

With powerhouses like Miami considering independence and rumors swirling about a potential SEC-Big Ten scheduling pact, the landscape is shifting fast.

The money-driven divide looms large, raising big questions about the future of the playoff system, conference realignment, and financial strain on fans and programs not backed by billionaire donors.

The conversation explores whether the rest of the country—ACC, Big 12, American, Conference USA, MAC, Mountain West, Pac-12, and Sun Belt—could band togeth...

JMU’s conservative play-calling sparks controversy after a dramatic overtime loss to Appalachian State.

With “scared money don’t make money” echoing in fans’ minds, questions mount over Billy Napier’s decision to kick a game-tying extra point instead of going for two and a questionable 49-yard field goal attempt on 4th & 2.

Did analytics—and lost offensive weapons—dictate caution, or did fear take over in the most pivotal moments?

The conversation focused on App State’s relentless defense, the momentum shift triggered by Colton Phares' interception, and whether the Sun Belt title race is now wide o...

Sun Belt Conference teams prepare for a historic showdown as the league secures its spot in the inaugural TransPerfect San Juan Bowl against an ACC opponent.

Will a Sun Belt contender seize the chance to make waves on a national stage, or will the tight turnaround and midweek schedule prove too much for fans and teams alike?

Key topics include bowl eligibility logistics, the stakes of facing a Power 4 team, and which Sun Belt program might earn the coveted bowl invite.

The conversation explored Georgia State’s resilience after a tough loss to JM...

Appalachian State stuns the undefeated James Madison Dukes with a thrilling 34-31 overtime victory in Boone, North Carolina.

Mountaineers’ defense steps up in key moments, limiting JMU to just 2-for-15 on third downs and setting up the offense for a comeback.

Questions swirl around coaching decisions, including Billy Napier’s call not to go for two in regulation and JMU’s puzzling trick play in overtime.

Fans and analysts weigh in on quarterback rotations, standout performances by Malachi Singleton and Camden Coleman, and the impact of missed opportunities and penalties.

Dave Schult...

Should FIU make a bold return to the Sun Belt Conference? The conversation focused on FIU’s football legacy, with memories of T.Y. Hilton electrifying crowds and Mario Cristobal leading the Panthers to a Little Caesars Bowl win.

Insights include FIU’s recruitment advantages in South Florida’s fertile talent pool and its former Sun Belt ties, but questions loom about media impact and fan base, as Miami remains a pro and Hurricanes-dominated town.

Several points were raised, including whether FIU’s Miami TV market is worth the gamble, given fragmented local loyalty and limited...

Coaching carousel chaos hits the Sun Belt as rumors swirl about Billy Napier’s potential move from James Madison University to Maryland.

Is Maryland truly an attractive destination for established head coaches, or just a stepping stone for ambitious coordinators?

The conversation focused on veteran coaches like Charles Huff and Napier, dissecting their contract histories, career trajectories, and the challenges facing Maryland Football in the competitive Big Ten.

A key theme that emerged was whether Appalachian State can slow down the high-powered JMU Dukes offense.

The discussion explored betting lines, defensive ma...

Ohio Bobcats to the Sun Belt? Conference realignment chatter heats up as the Sun Belt weighs replacements for JMU.

Could Ohio’s storied football tradition and strong showing in basketball make them a surprise fit, or does their deep MAC history hold them back?

The conversation explores Ohio’s rivalry with Marshall, their stadium credentials, and whether Athens offers the elusive TV market the Sun Belt covets.

Key themes include the drive for better football matchups, the value of longstanding rivalries, and the financial realities facing athletic programs.

Midweek football games, medi...

Appalachian State shakes up Sun Belt realignment talks as Athletic Director Doug Gillin confirms "conversations" about the program's future amid James Madison University’s jump to the American Athletic Conference.

With Marshall and others reportedly weighing their options, is the stability of the Sun Belt Conference at risk?

Host Dave Schultz breaks down JMU’s strength of schedule dilemma, possible division changes, and the potential impact on heated Eastern rivalries.

Get insights on App State’s path back to football contention, the steep $30 million price tag for conference realignment, and which schools could bolt n...

Marshall Thundering Herd stun South Alabama Jaguars with a 20-13 defensive showcase and gutsy play calling. Is this the win that turns Marshall’s season around?

Dave Schultz breaks down Marshall’s gritty victory, spotlighting Tony Gibson’s crucial offensive adjustments, Zion Turner and Khalil Wilkins’ timely quarterback runs, and wild special teams moments—including a bold fake punt call.

Key topics include South Alabama’s offensive struggles, Anthony Eager’s costly drops, and Marshall’s ability to capitalize on turnovers.

The conversation also explores season-saving implications for Marshall, the significance of winning at home, and the...

South Alabama's explosive offense faces a major test as they battle Marshall in a nationally televised Sun Belt showdown on ESPN2.

Can quarterback Jared Hollins and the Jaguars keep their scoring streak alive, or will Marshall's defense—fresh off a gritty effort against Coastal Carolina—finally step up and slow down the high-powered attack?

With both teams struggling defensively and the over/under soaring, fans can expect fireworks on the scoreboard.

The conversation focused on South Alabama's dominant ground game, Marshall's recent defensive improvements, and how early stops might determine the outcome more than...

JMU eyes an early Sun Belt exit—can a multimillion-dollar buyout and new corporate partners seal the deal? With the Dukes preparing to join the American Athletic Conference by 2028, speculation swirls over how much JMU will pay and whether Marshall or Liberty could follow their path.

Potential shake-ups loom as conference realignment accelerates, raising questions about scheduling chaos, facility upgrades, and the Sun Belt’s next moves.

Host Dave Schultz breaks down critical updates on JMU’s negotiations, Sun Belt exit fees, and Marshall’s rumored interest in jumping to the American.

Get insights...

Could the Delaware Blue Hens be the perfect addition to the Sun Belt Conference?

Dave Schultz explores whether Delaware's storied football tradition, highlighted by NFL star Joe Flacco and a Division I-AA (FCS) national championship, makes them a compelling candidate to fill the void left by James Madison's impending departure.

The episode examines Delaware’s recent bowl performance, its strong research reputation, and the recruiting advantages of tapping into the Pennsylvania talent pipeline.

Schultz weighs the pros and cons of expanding the Sun Belt footprint into the Philadelphia market and ponders how adding De...

Sun Belt contenders deliver commanding victories as Louisiana Tech shuts out ULM and James Madison steamrolls Georgia State—yet questions still linger about consistency and national respect.

Can JMU finally crack the Top 25 after another dominant showing, or will strength of schedule keep them overlooked?

Dave Schultz breaks down Louisiana Tech's defensive masterpiece, the Cajuns' opportunistic win over Troy, and App State's gritty comeback against Coastal Carolina.

Discussion spotlights Aiden Armenta's struggles at ULM, Troy’s uneven year, and Southern Miss facing the Sun Belt’s most explosive offenses.

With spotlight games...

JMU Dukes remain unbeaten but were snubbed from the AP Top 25, raising questions about what it will take for this surging FBS team to earn national respect.

Despite dominating Georgia State and boasting a perfect record, James Madison keeps piling up votes without breaking into the college football elite—while teams like Arizona rise in the rankings even after a bye week.

The conversation focused on AP voters’ bias, the impact of preseason hype, and what JMU must do to finally get ranked.

A key theme that emerged was the need for statement wins...

Louisiana Tech Bulldogs break a 26-year drought against ULM Warhawks, recording a statement 24-0 shutout in the 1-20 Showdown & the Governor's Cup.

Can this dominant second-half performance fuel a Sun Belt title run? The conversation focused on Tech’s gritty turnaround after a sluggish first half, highlighted by Blake Baker’s flawless second-half passing and Kam Franklin’s highlight-reel interception that sealed the victory.

Several points were raised, including ULM’s offensive struggles—failing to cross midfield until late in the fourth quarter—and the Bulldogs’ relentless defensive pressure.

The discussion explored how Sun Belt favor...

Sun Belt shockwaves: James Madison decimates Georgia State with a 49-22 blowout, asserting dominance as the league’s top contender. Can JMU maintain its unbeaten run, or will App State threaten their march in upcoming Thursday clashes?

Host Dave Schultz recaps the wild day, dissecting JMU’s relentless offense—powered by Camden Coleman and JC Evans—and Georgia State’s defensive struggles, while spotlighting how the East Division race is quickly narrowing.

Elsewhere, Louisiana’s Ragin’ Cajuns rebound with a statement 33-6 win over Troy, fueled by a punishing ground attack from Lunch Winfield and JJ Garner.

Is the Sun Belt Conference settling for a participation trophy, or is a Group of 6 (G6) playoff truly inevitable?

The discussion centers on a Sun Belt coach’s anonymous call for a G6-only playoff, raising questions about postseason value, conference representation, and the changing college football landscape.

National reaction, media exposure for programs like James Madison (JMU) and Tulane, and the logistics of G6 playoff venues all take center stage.

Key topics include concerns about fan travel, the impact on bowl games, and whether increased playoff spots for Power 4 conferences diminish the pa...

Appalachian State mounts a thrilling 35-32 victory over Coastal Carolina as Henry Hasselbeck steps up with 125 rushing yards after Malachi Singleton’s injury.

Can App State’s revived ground game spark a Sun Belt title run, or will quarterback health and play-calling questions haunt them down the stretch?

The conversation focused on Deuce Bailey’s strong first half for Coastal Carolina, a jaw-dropping 58-yard field goal, and crucial late-game turnovers that swung momentum.

A key theme that emerged was App State’s resilient defense—holding strong in the second half—and the controversy surrounding...

Should the Sun Belt put rivalries and tradition aside to bring powerhouse Liberty University football into the conference?

With James Madison University (JMU) departing, the Sun Belt faces a major decision on filling the void—sparking debate over Liberty’s impressive athletic investment, strong football record, and potential to ignite East Division rivalries with Coastal Carolina, Old Dominion, Marshall, and App State.

The conversation focused on Liberty’s geographic fit and financial muscle, but also raised concerns about the school’s private status and cultural differences, especially regarding athletics culture and alcohol policies.

A key th...

College football faces a seismic shift as a new 24-team playoff is set to launch—with just one Group of Six (G6) bid up for grabs.

Is this expanded format opening opportunities, or slamming the door on underdog dreams? The conversation focused on the ripple effects for teams like JMU, Tulane, Boise State, and Memphis, especially with new qualification hurdles that favor Power Four programs.

A key theme that emerged was the dominance of money over competition, as TV networks and conferences chase record profits while G6 teams risk being sidelined to a less-glamorous playoff.

Georgia Southern overcomes quarterback injuries as coach’s son Turner Helton steps up in a 23-15 victory against Old Dominion. Can the Eagles turn their momentum into a season rebound? 

Dave Schultz breaks down Helton’s surprising performance—23 completions for 205 yards and a touchdown—and discusses the costly mistakes that doomed ODU, including game-changing penalties and a roughing-the-kicker call early on.

Key topics include Georgia Southern’s offensive adjustments with backup QBs, ODU’s struggles to establish a running game, and the broader implications for Sun Belt standings. 

The episode also examines the shakeup in the...

JMU’s planned move to the American Conference sends shockwaves through the Sun Belt—could Western Kentucky fill the void?

Conference realignment sparks speculation as fans debate whether WKU’s offensive firepower, rich coaching history with names like Jack Harbaugh and Jeff Brohm, and geographic fit give them the edge.

Will the Sun Belt opt for tradition or take a bold leap by targeting programs like Tarleton State, Delaware, or even Liberty?

Discussion centers on Middle Tennessee State’s potential tandem entry, market size concerns for Bowling Green, and whether the Sun Belt should e...

ODU stuns App State amid a rain-soaked battle, but can the Monarchs keep the streak alive against Georgia Southern?

Georgia Southern, led by Max Johnson’s dynamic passing attack, looks to bounce back after a tough loss and remain contenders in the Sun Belt Conference race.

Oddsmakers tip Georgia Southern as 3.5-point road favorites, but Old Dominion’s stout defense and home-field advantage set the stage for a closely contested showdown.

Dave Schultz breaks down pivotal matchups, analyzing ODU’s offensive struggles and Georgia Southern’s advantages in total yards and touchdowns.

Plus...

Louisiana Tech rally stuns Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns—are the Bulldogs now the team to beat in the Sun Belt West?

Dave Schultz breaks down La Tech’s dramatic comeback win, spotlighting Blake Baker and Eli Finley's clutch plays, and questions whether the Bulldogs’ late-game surge or the Cajuns’ collapse tells the bigger story.

Key highlights include LA Tech’s defensive stand in the final minutes, Sonny Cumbie’s postgame reflections, and how this win shakes up the divisional power dynamic.

The episode also previews the long-awaited rivalry between Louisiana Tech and ULM, playing for the first...

JMU Dukes shake up college football by announcing a swift move from the Sun Belt Conference to the American Athletic Conference (AAC)—a transition driven by lucrative TV contracts and strategic positioning.

The episode unpacks how JMU’s expansive alumni base in major cities, timely decisions to avoid steep exit fees, and the promise of $7–12 million in annual media rights revenue set them up for a new era.

Is this all about the money, or does JMU have bigger ambitions beyond the gridiron?

Shane Mettlen of the Daily News-Record reveals behind-the-scenes details on Presid...

James Madison Dukes’ exit shakes the Sun Belt Conference—does the league risk losing even more powerhouse programs?

The conversation focused on the stark contrast between JMU’s move to the AAC and Texas State Bobcats joining the Pac-12, questioning the long-term impact on Sun Belt competitiveness and visibility.

One concept discussed was JMU’s rapid ascent, with Curt Cignetti’s football team and Mark Byington’s basketball squad fueling national recognition through championship runs and NCAA tournament victories.

Several points were raised, including the economic realities driving realignment, Texas State’s untapped potential, and...

James Madison Dukes shake up the Sun Belt with a bold move to the American Athletic Conference, sparking debate about the timing and financial motives behind the switch.

Is this the end of an era for JMU, or the start of a new powerhouse in the AAC landscape?

Locked On Sun Belt covers the implications of JMU's $28 million transition, the Sun Belt’s looming exit fee hike, and whether programs like Marshall, Appalachian State, or Georgia State could follow suit.

The conversation explores how conference realignment, including playoff expansion rumors, could reshape college fo...

JMU Dukes shake up the Sun Belt by announcing a move to the American Athletic Conference, triggering questions about the future of college sports realignment.

With JMU set to join the AAC by July 1, 2028, the Sun Belt faces an urgent crossroads—was the conference truly prepared for this high-stakes departure, and which teams are next on the radar?

Dave Schultz breaks down the financial incentives driving JMU’s decision, contrasts media rights payouts between the AAC and Sun Belt, and identifies top candidates like Western Kentucky, Liberty, and Delaware for potential expansion.

The disc...

JMU Dukes keep their college football playoff hopes alive with a gritty 27-24 win over Georgia Southern. Is this the year Sun Belt Billy Napier leads JMU back to the postseason spotlight while the Florida Gators struggle to make bowl eligibility?

The conversation focused on JMU’s decisive turnaround, including clutch plays from George Pettaway, JC Evans’ connection with Cole Keller, and critical defensive moments that flipped the game in the Dukes’ favor.

Several points were raised, including playoff projections for Group of Six contenders, the shifting odds for JMU versus Georgia State, and whether JMU ca...

Louisiana Tech stuns the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns with a dramatic 32-31 comeback, sparking debate about play calling versus execution.

Can the Cajuns regroup after surrendering a late lead, or is their lack of a workhorse running back a deeper issue?

Locked On Sun Belt breaks down Lunch’s inconsistent passing, Mike Desormeaux'’s decisions, and clutch plays by LA Tech stars Blake Baker, Burnette, Shettron and Eli Finley.

The conversation focused on whether James Madison should switch from Camden Coleman to JC Evans at quarterback ahead of a pivotal showdown with Georgia State.

K...

Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns ignite heated rivalry talk after Louisiana Tech edges them out 32-31—are name games overshadowing on-field action in Sun Belt football?

The UL vs. ULL debate intensifies as fans, broadcasters, and even coaches clash over the program’s branding, sparking a renewed spotlight on school pride, conference identity, and social media banter.

The conversation highlights key moments from the LA Tech showdown, explores the Sun Belt’s stance on proper naming conventions, and revisits classic Will Wade vs. Bob Marlin basketball drama.

With fan engagement, game-day atmosphere, and future Cajuns-LA Tech s...