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

Appalachian State eyes a major upset as NC State reels from late-game meltdown—could the Wolfpack’s troubles continue?

Dave Schultz examines whether App State, riding a 3-0 start and fueled by underdog energy, can capitalize on NC State’s lackluster finish against Vanderbilt and mounting pressure on head coach Dave Doeren. The clash becomes even more intriguing with playoff chatter and Sun Belt pride on the line.

Key topics include App State’s need to compete for a full 60 minutes, the psychological toll on NC State after their collapse, and why a Wolfpack loss could sp...

JMU emerges as a surprise College Football Playoff contender after a statement win over San Diego State. Could the Dukes’ momentum carry them back to the national spotlight despite not facing a Power 4 opponent this season?

Dave Schultz spotlights key playoff projections, including Boise State and North Dakota State, and breaks down how JMU stacks up against Group of Six rivals in the race for a lone postseason bid.

Coastal Carolina faces a high-stakes showdown with Liberty on national television, with new quarterback Deuce Bailey under pressure to seize the moment.

Schultz explores pi...

Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns’ defense delivers a clutch performance to secure a 21-14 victory over UAB, raising questions about the offense's consistency and explosiveness.

With key stops against UAB’s quarterback Ryder Burton and running back Roderick Robinson., the Cajuns held the Blazers to just 74 rushing yards, showcasing a shutdown Sun Belt defensive effort.

But can quarterback Lunch Winfield and the Ragin’ Cajuns find their rhythm in the passing game before tougher matchups arrive?

Dave Schultz breaks down the highs and lows of the Cajuns’ win, analyzing the turnover battle, game-changing plays by the defensive...

Houston Cougars prepare for an unexpected Sun Belt showdown as they travel to face Georgia Southern in a matchup with deep coaching ties.

Former Georgia Southern head coach Willie Fritz returns to Statesboro at the helm of Houston, bringing added intrigue to a game scheduled over a decade ago.

Can Georgia Southern capitalize on home-field advantage and pull off an upset against a Big 12 opponent?

Hosts Parker Ainsworth and Dave Schultz break down Clay Helton’s program, the evolution of the Eagles’ offense, and key players like Max Johnson and Weston Bryan.

Di...

Marshall Thundering Herd notch a statement road win over Missouri State, powered by Carlos Del Rio-Wilson’s dual-threat performance and a rejuvenated ground attack. Is Marshall’s evolving defense the missing piece for a Sun Belt title push?

Dave Schultz breaks down Marshall’s gritty 30-24 victory, spotlighting Del Rio-Wilson’s balanced play and the crucial fourth-quarter shutout by the Herd defense.

The conversation focused on surprising Sun Belt storylines, including ODU’s costly collapse against ECU, missed opportunities for Coastal Carolina versus Delaware, and Southern Miss’s struggles against UConn.

Key themes include the...

Georgia Southern Eagles suffer a shocking collapse as they squander a 14-point lead to fall 31-27 against Jacksonville State.

Special teams mishaps, including a 75-yard punt return from Caleb Nix, and a late-game interception off Ty Cummings’ hands, turned a dominant performance into a devastating loss.

Did coaching decisions and costly mistakes define this upset, or are deeper issues at play for Clay Helton’s squad?

The conversation focused on whether this defeat signals broader concerns for Georgia Southern football’s trajectory, especially with their upcoming matchup against Houston and former coach Willie Fritz...

James Madison Dukes make a statement as they topple San Diego State, sparking new hope for the Sun Belt Conference.

Camden Coleman’s poise at quarterback and a relentless defense powered JMU to a 3-0 start, capitalizing on San Diego State’s costly mistakes and controversial coaching calls.

Can JMU sustain this momentum as Sun Belt play heats up?

Dave Schultz breaks down nail-biting finishes across the league, including South Alabama’s explosive offense led by Jared Hollins and App State’s narrow win over Charlotte.

Key points include ULM's ongoing struggle...

Sun Belt teams falter in a wild week as Old Dominion collapses late against East Carolina and Georgia Southern blows a double-digit lead to Jacksonville State. Can these programs bounce back after critical mistakes cost them winnable games?

Dave Schultz breaks down the ODU fumble that opened the door for ECU, questionable play calls by Coastal Carolina's staff, and Georgia Southern's heartbreaking interception in the red zone.

Key topics include breakout performances by South Alabama's Jared Hollins, eye-catching moments from Georgia State’s gritty loss to UCF, and the ongoing struggles of ULM and Southern Mi...

The JMU Dukes head west with something to prove against San Diego State. Can Camden Coleman's explosive offense handle the Aztecs, or will questions about JMU's true identity linger?

Dave Schultz spotlights JMU's underdog status and breaks down key matchups, betting odds, and why this showdown could shape national perceptions of the Dukes.

The podcast also covers South Alabama's must-win battle versus Ohio, Coastal Carolina's high-stakes trip to Delaware, and Arkansas State’s uphill challenge at TCU.

Insights include quarterback play, betting lines, and strategic X-factors for teams like Southern Miss vs. UConn an...

Old Dominion Monarchs look to find their rhythm as they host ECU Pirates in a pivotal Sun Belt clash. Can quarterback Quinn Henicle's solid play finally translate into a sharp, turnover-free performance for ODU, or will ECU’s tough early-season schedule give them the edge on Saturday night?

Dave Schultz breaks down the Monarchs’ recent struggles—including sloppy starts and missed covers—and analyzes Henicle’s dual-threat potential.

The discussion also spotlights key matchups across the conference: Troy’s daunting test at Missouri, Georgia State’s surprising bid for a 3-0 start, and App State’s dominance.

UCF Knights face a potential trap game as they take on the resurgent Georgia State Panthers—can Scott Frost’s squad avoid a major upset at the Bounce House?

With star quarterback Alonzo Barnett sidelined by injury, UCF turns to Keyone Jenkins to lead the charge against a much-improved Georgia State defense that has allowed just 27 points over its first two games.

Mike G and Dave Schultz assess whether Georgia State’s balanced attack and hungry transfer talent can challenge UCF’s stingy defense, which held Pitt to just 12 points.

Key discussion points include...

Sun Belt quarterback injuries shake up the weekend matchups as LA Tech's Blake Baker is out with a fractured hand while Georgia State misses Alonza Barnett III, out with a bad hamstring.

Can Georgia State take advantage of UCF's backup QB Keyone Jenkins’ or will his FIU experience give UCF a chance, and will Trey Kukuk’s transition at LA Tech keep their season on track against Baylor?

The quarterback shuffle throws betting odds and game plans into question for key Sun Belt matchups.

Dave Schultz spotlights the renewed defensive grit of Georgia Stat...

James Madison Dukes shatter records with an 87-point outburst—does this offensive firepower signal early Sun Belt dominance?

Host Dave Schultz spotlights JMU’s historic win over Wagner behind Camden Coleman’s strong showing and Nick Herman’s breakout rushing stats.

The episode covers Sun Belt shakeups—including Alonzo Barnett III’s injury news at UCF, Georgia State’s chances as underdogs, and Coastal Carolina’s big day behind Deuce Bailey.

Insights include Troy’s inconsistent start, Old Dominion’s turnover struggles against Virginia Tech, and Southern Miss’s stout first-half defense versus Auburn.

Key matc...

Sun Belt underdogs turn heads as losses feel like wins—can these teams channel moral victories into conference dominance?

Dave Schultz spotlights Louisiana’s resilience against USC, Georgia Southern’s defensive stand versus Clemson, and LA Tech’s surprising battle with LSU, questioning whether these “almost upsets” forecast stronger Sun Belt showings ahead.

Defensive improvements, exposure of weaknesses, and standout efforts from quarterbacks like Lunch Winfield take center stage.

App State and Georgia State surge to 2-0 with impressive road wins, setting the stage for potential undefeated starts before key rivalry matchups.

Schultz br...

South Alabama falters late as Tulane storms back behind Jaylin Lucas’ explosive 214-yard night, leaving Major Applewhite’s future hanging in the balance. 

Can the Jaguars rebound after surrendering a game they seemed destined to win? 

Dave Schultz breaks down the rollercoaster matchup, spotlighting Bishop Davenport’s strong performance and dissecting crucial defensive lapses that led to the heartbreaking 28-24 loss.

Sun Belt action heats up as App State edges East Carolina, Georgia State dominates Kennesaw State, and Marshall survives a late scare versus Middle Tennessee. 

Key storylines feature JMU’s stunning 87...

Southern Miss faces a giant challenge against Auburn—can Ethan Hampton and the Golden Eagles force enough turnovers to shock the SEC powerhouse?

Dave Schultz breaks down Southern Miss’s dominant 49-3 win over Alcorn State, contrasting it with Auburn’s shaky showing versus Baylor.

The analysis spotlights Southern Miss’s explosive offense, defensive strengths, and what it will take to cover the escalating spread against Auburn’s stout D.

Additional highlights include Georgia State’s quest for a 2-0 start under Dell McGee, Arkansas State’s get-right opportunity versus West Georgia, and Old Dominion’s...

Can Georgia Southern topple Clemson after their dominant defensive showing against Charleston Southern?

Dave Schultz breaks down this high-stakes matchup, analyzing Georgia Southern’s stingy run defense, shifting betting lines, and the impact of recent Sun Belt results.

With Clemson’s status uncertain and Dabo Swinney aiming to reset the narrative, is there a real chance for an upset or is the Tigers’ talent gap simply too much to overcome?

Schultz also previews key games across the Sun Belt: App State’s bid for an upset over East Carolina, Marshall seeking redemption, Troy’s uneven s...

South Alabama has a chance to make a statement—and finally get off the roller coaster.

The Jaguars travel to Tulane for a pivotal Week 2 matchup against a Green Wave team coming off a disastrous performance against Duke. Tulane committed 15 penalties for 104 yards, managed just three points, and has already made a quarterback change.

Dave Schultz and guest Maddy Hudak break down why this is such a massive opportunity for both teams,

The Jaguars ran the football effectively in Week 1, played strong against the run, and now face a Tulane team that struggled to...

Could Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns really replace LSU Tigers in the SEC? Rapid enrollment growth, SpaceX’s expansion, and Lafayette’s technology boom put Louisiana’s future in the spotlight. Is the Cajuns’ move to a Power Conference more plausible than ever?

Locked On Sun Belt breaks down a wild week, from the SEC potentially voting to expel LSU to South Alabama Jaguars’ pivotal clash with Tulane Green Wave.

The conversation focused on Georgia Southern Eagles’ upset odds against Clemson, key betting trends, and how university growth is shaping Sun Belt programs’ athletic ambitions.

Get insights on...

Marshall Thundering Herd struggle mightily against Penn State as their offense manages just three trips across midfield. Can Tony Gibson’s squad shake off this performance and find their rhythm before Sun Belt play?

Dave Schultz critiques Marshall’s offensive approach, citing Carlos Del Rio Wilson’s 4-yard-per-attempt passing game and Penn State’s overwhelming size and speed.

The conversation then spotlights upcoming tests against Middle Tennessee State, Missouri State, and Gardner-Webb, questioning whether Marshall can rebound and capitalize on a more level playing field.

Schultz also recaps ODU quarterback Quinn Henicle's mixed performa...

Louisiana Tech Bulldogs put college football on notice with an explosive 80-point opener, scoring touchdowns on their first 11 possessions.

Can LA Tech sustain this offensive onslaught as competition stiffens?

Dave Schultz breaks down the Sun Belt’s 10-4 weekend, spotlighting LA Tech's record-setting night, App State’s precision against Maine, and Coastal Carolina’s fiery second-half comeback behind Deuce Bailey’s 273-yard, three-touchdown performance.

Key discussion points include James Madison Dukes’ defensive showing against Liberty, South Alabama Jaguars’ dominant run game, and Georgia Southern Eagles’ smothering rush defense.

Schultz questions whether those early bl...

Billy Napier’s debut with the James Madison Dukes promises fireworks as they host Liberty in a high-stakes Sun Belt opener.

Quarterback battles heat up with Camden Coleman and JC Evans vying for the starting nod, while Liberty faces questions about their strength of schedule.

Can Napier’s experience and a disciplined JMU defense deliver double-digit victory against Jamie Chadwell’s Flames?

Dave Schultz previews each Sun Belt matchup, breaking down key players like Max Johnson’s anticipated return for Georgia Southern Eagles, and must-win scenarios for Southern Miss against Alcorn State.

Insigh...

Sun Belt football kicks off with high stakes as Georgia State faces North Carolina A&T and South Alabama eyes a strong start against Southeastern.

Can Cameran Brown step up at quarterback for Georgia State, or will North Carolina A&T’s unlikely defensive showing keep it close?

Meanwhile, South Alabama looks to capitalize on Bishop Davenport’s return and overcome last season’s pass rush struggles. Are these early spreads—nearly 30 points for Georgia State and 12.5 for South Alabama—too much to cover?

Dave Schultz breaks down Louisiana Tech’s Sun Belt debut agains...

Georgia State Panthers dominate North Carolina A&T with a 59-10 blowout, setting the tone for the 2026 season. Cameran Brown delivers a near-perfect first half, leading a balanced attack as the Panthers rack up 279 passing yards and 284 rushing yards—outgaining A&T's total offense by a wide margin.

Six different players score rushing touchdowns, while 16 receivers catch a pass, showcasing depth and versatility across the roster.

Dave Schultz breaks down Georgia State's suffocating defense, which tallied five sacks and nine tackles for loss, and examines Dell McGee's decision to rest starters early.

Key to...

Coastal Carolina’s furious second-half rally falls just short as West Virginia escapes, while JMU’s defense shines despite offensive concerns. Is Marshall’s offense simply bad—or downright embarrassing after a blowout loss to Penn State?

Dave Schultz breaks down key Sun Belt football openers, highlighting Deuce Bailey’s emergence for Coastal Carolina, Quinn Hencile's all-around game for ODU, and questions facing Marshall’s Carlos Del Rio-Wilson following a 45-0 defeat.

The show covers statistical standouts, JMU’s special teams sparks, and blowout victories by Southern Miss and Georgia Southern. Upcoming matchups, including Old Dominion vs. V...

Penn State faces early-season uncertainty as Marshall threatens to spoil Matt Campbell’s coaching debut in Beaver Stadium.

Could Carlos Del Rio Wilson and the Thundering Herd’s explosive Sun Belt offense put the Nittany Lions on upset alert?

The line sits at 24.5, but both teams feature offensive firepower and question marks on defense—raising the stakes for an electrifying, high-scoring clash.

Zach Seyko and Dave Schultz break down how Penn State’s Big Ten talent and Iowa State continuity stack up against Marshall’s veteran playmakers, including preseason stars Adrian Norton and Toby Payne...

Troy and Old Dominion emerge as the frontrunners in the Sun Belt title race.

Can Coach Gerad Parker’s Trojans outlast Quinn Henicle and Devin Roche’s revamped Old Dominion Monarchs to clinch the conference championship?

Dave Schultz spotlights key quarterback battles across the league, questions around James Madison’s Camden Coleman, and why Georgia Southern’s Max Johnson could be a true wild card.

West Division intrigue intensifies as Louisiana and Louisiana Tech aim to dethrone Troy, while South Alabama and Arkansas State ride on new talent and coaching adjustments.

Will Sou...

Sun Belt coaches refuse to name their starting quarterbacks. Is their secrecy strategy helping or hurting team momentum ahead of a pivotal season start?

Dave Schultz spotlights the uncertainty swirling around top programs like Coastal Carolina, Arkansas State, and Southern Miss as Camden Coleman, Trever Jackson, and others fight for QB1.

He breaks down how coaching paranoia shapes game prep, highlights the unique two-QB approach at JMU, and questions whether fans deserve more transparency.

Plus, get analysis on the upcoming Arkansas State vs. Memphis showdown, with Charles Huff holding an edge over Butch...

Charles Huff stuns UNLV with a road win in his Memphis head coaching debut—could he be one-and-done in Memphis if the Tigers keep climbing?

As speculation swirls about potential SEC openings, Huff's meteoric rise puts the spotlight on whether Group of 5 success translates at the Power 5 level.

Dave Schultz breaks down Memphis’ statement victory, analyzes the upcoming Sun Belt showdowns, and questions if Arkansas State can spring an upset with Memphis potentially facing a trap game before Boise State.

Key discussion points include Marshall’s underdog role against Penn State, the challenges Billy...

Sun Belt Conference shuts the door on pro athletes — is a legal showdown with the SEC on the horizon?

Dave Schultz breaks down the Sun Belt’s firm stance against allowing previously professionalized players to compete, exploring the ripple effects across college sports as lawsuits brew and state governments get involved.

With the SEC and Big Ten issuing hefty penalties for violations and Louisiana’s players at the center of legal challenges, will policy shifts and court rulings reshape eligibility rules nationwide?

Celebrating legacy and community, Dave Schultz spotlights the University of Louisiana’s renami...

USA Today shakes up Sun Belt football predictions—can Troy and James Madison dominate once again, or are surprise contenders like Old Dominion and Louisiana Tech poised to crash the championship party?

Dave Schultz scrutinizes projected win totals, conference records, and the fate of embattled coaches as the new season looms. He highlights why Arkansas State’s ascent and Southern Miss’s potential breakthrough could upend expectations, and questions if South Alabama and ULM can reach crucial six-win marks.

Unpacking Scott Watkins’ detailed team-by-team picks, Dave Schultz examines Old Dominion’s bold forecast as East Division l...

Has college football become one massive cash grab, overshadowing the essence of the game?

Dave Schultz exposes the financial forces fueling NCAA sports, from skyrocketing media rights and streaming deals to multimillion-dollar coaching contracts and the explosive impact of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) on student-athlete mobility.

As venture capitalists eye college athletics and SEC, Big Ten, and Sun Belt programs navigate growing disparities, the pursuit of profit redefines the landscape.

Key discussion points include the effects on teams like James Madison (JMU), Marshall, and Coastal Carolina, the wave of players transferring for...

Sun Belt East coaches face mounting pressure as championship expectations rise. Who’s poised for success, and who’s on the hot seat?

Dave Schultz breaks down each coach’s standing, from Dell McGee’s make-or-break season at Georgia State to Dowell Loggins’ relationship hurdles at App State.

Insights include Ryan Beard’s secretive approach at Coastal Carolina, Tony Gibson stabilizing Marshall after roster turnover, and Clay Helton’s consistency at Georgia Southern despite fan unrest.

Which programs have real title hopes? Championship-level leaders like Billy Napier (James Madison Dukes) and Ricky Ronnie (Old Dominion M...

Which Sun Belt West coaches are building contenders—and who’s running out of time?

Dave Schultz ranks every Sun Belt West coaching seat, naming Major Applewhite (South Alabama) and Bryant Vincent (ULM) as “on the clock” while examining the pressures facing new and established programs.

Candid analysis highlights Applewhite’s struggle to build after Kane Wommack’s 10-win surge, Vincent’s battle with ULM’s limited resources, and whether either can spark a turnaround with tough schedules ahead.

Sonny Cumbie (Louisiana Tech), Butch Jones (Arkansas State), and Michael Desormeaux (Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns) earn “established”...

Sun Belt contenders face season-defining questions as quarterback battles heat up and injuries mount. With just two weeks left before kickoff, can Billy Napier’s JMU Dukes overcome high expectations?

Marshall’s explosive offense raises hopes, but can the defense deliver key stops under pressure?

The quarterback situations at James Madison and Troy promise high-stakes drama—will proven arms like Max Johnson stay healthy and lead Georgia Southern on a deep run, or do potential upsets loom if things go sideways?

Dave Schultz spotlights breakout potentials like Bishop Davenport (South Alabama) and Lunch Winfie...

Sun Belt football coaches face a make-or-break 2026 season as pressure mounts across the conference.

Dell McGee (Georgia State) and Dowell Loggains (Appalachian State) must prove their programs can compete, with Loggins' NFL aspirations and lack of community connection fueling speculation.

Major Applewhite (South Alabama) and Bryant Vincent (ULM) shoulder expectations from new athletic directors, while Mike Desormeaux (Louisiana) battles fan unrest despite navigating injuries and tough schedules.

Will Tony Gibson’s Marshall squad live up to playoff buzz with Carlos Del Rio Wilson under center?

Can Billy Napier restore James Madison’s ch...

James Madison Dukes reap a staggering $330 million in advertising impact from their College Football Playoff appearance, sparking questions about long-term benefits for both the program and the Sun Belt Conference.

Could this windfall signal a turning point for Group of Six schools on the national stage?

Dave Schultz spotlights President Jim Schmidt's reveal of JMU's billion-plus media impressions, examines how playoff success fuels school reputation, and explores the ripple effect on future enrollment and G6 opportunities.

Also featured: Troy baseball coach Skyler Meade secures a record-setting contract extension after a remarkable College World...

Arkansas State faces a major setback as leading returning rusher Devin Spencer is ruled out for the season after a non-contact injury before camp.

Can Kenyon Clay and a reshuffled backfield step up to fill the void, or will the Red Wolves’ offensive rhythm suffer?

Dave Schultz explores how this injury could reshape the running game and the opportunity it creates for up-and-coming backs like Corey Reddick and Nasir Allen.

Elsewhere in the Sun Belt, Louisiana’s wide receiver corps takes another hit with both Shelton Sampson and Landon Strother sidelined.

The...

RJ Young snubs the Sun Belt as his Fox Sports rankings spark outrage—did he overlook key contenders like James Madison and Troy? The Sun Belt’s placement at the bottom, with teams like JMU, App State, and Southern Miss ranked 103–105, raises questions about national perception and thoroughness in preseason analysis.

Host Dave Schultz examines how the AP Top 25 poll gave the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns and JMU unexpected recognition, and highlights early storylines to watch, including quarterback battles, critical matchups like Marshall vs. Penn State, and questions about defensive strength across the conference.

Can the Sun Belt...

Can the Sun Belt Conference crash the College Football Playoff again?

Dave Schultz explores whether Marshall, Troy, JMU, and other Sun Belt contenders can break into the postseason spotlight by taking down Power Four opponents like Penn State, Missouri, and Kentucky.

With new CFP entry rules and the stakes higher than ever, are undefeated runs and surprise upsets on the horizon for teams like South Alabama, Old Dominion, or Coastal Carolina?

Schultz breaks down which Sun Belt teams could impress or disappoint, spotlighting breakout candidates and squads facing uphill battles—like Georgia State an...