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

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...

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...

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...

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...

Sun Belt West quarterbacks face a defining season as potential battles proven experience for supremacy.

Can Lunch Winfield lift Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns to Sun Belt domination, or will Bishop Davenport’s athleticism elevate South Alabama after an offseason shakeup?

Trey Owens and Ethan Crawford jockey for Arkansas State’s starting role, while Landry Lyddy aims to turn limited reps into Southern Miss success.

Dave Schultz breaks down each program’s QB situation, highlighting Goose Crowder’s health as Troy’s championship hopes hinge on his performance and Blake Baker’s quest to bring explosive play...

Sun Belt East quarterback picture remains murky as top contenders search for answers under center. With JMU and Coastal Carolina facing key decisions—will Camden Coleman, JC Evans, or Trever Jackson emerge as the starter?—uncertainty looms large over the division’s preseason favorites.

Dave Schultz ranks the conference’s signal-callers, spotlighting Carlos Del Rio-Wilson as the top Sun Belt East QB and a potential game-changer for Marshall.

Rising stars Cameran Brown (Georgia State) and Max Johnson (Georgia Southern) fuel fierce competition, while App State’s Malachi Singleton and ODU’s Quinn Henicle seek to turn raw pot...

James Madison Dukes face real threats in their pursuit of the Sun Belt Championship—are they truly unbeatable?

Troy, Marshall, Old Dominion, and the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns all emerge as contenders, fueled by standout talents like Marshall’s Carlos Del Rio-Wilson and questions at quarterback for JMU.

The episode spotlights the crucial role of offensive and defensive line chemistry, early season injuries, and which teams actually have the depth to challenge the Dukes’ dominance.

The conversation focused on middle-tier Sun Belt teams such as App State, Georgia Southern, and Coastal Carolina, exploring whether improvem...

James Madison Dukes command early Sun Belt attention, but is their dominance automatic this season?

Dave Schultz breaks down why JMU’s preseason hype might be fueled more by recent history than their current roster under Billy Napier.

Explore the Dukes’ challenging football schedule featuring marquee matchups against Liberty and San Diego State, plus pivotal Sun Belt clashes with Old Dominion, Marshall, and Georgia Southern.

With ODU, Troy, and Marshall all lurking, could the race for the conference crown be closer than predicted?

Basketball takes center stage as Sun Belt teams line...

Georgia State Panthers aim to rewrite their narrative as head coach Dell McGee enters Year 3, rallying behind standout leaders Cameran Brown and Jabriel Rhodes-Nelson.

Can this renewed focus and a fresh roster direction ignite a Sun Belt surge? McGee addresses challenges faced after a late coaching change, outlines strategic staff moves, and spotlights the impact of transferring in hungry Division II and junior college players.

Cameran Brown reveals how the Panthers are instilling the "Four C's" — connection, commitment, competitiveness, composure — while Rhodes-Nelson shares the motivation behind his jump from D2 and how leadership on both side...

ULM Warhawks look to turn fast starts into winning finishes as Coach Bryant Vincent enters his pivotal third year. Can ULM finally break the cycle and punch their ticket to a bowl game?

With linebacker Noah Flemings and offensive lineman AJ Vinson anchoring both sides of the ball, expectations are high for a breakthrough season in Monroe.

Host Dave Schultz spotlights ULM’s revamped receiver corps, the impact of key injuries, and the all-important "Finish The Fight" mentality driving the Warhawks.

Insights include ULM’s defensive depth, plans for improved special teams play, and...

Old Dominion Monarchs eye a Sun Belt Championship run as Coach Ricky Rahne resets the standard for 2026.

Can one of the league’s most experienced coaches capitalize on a defense loaded with returning starters and a revamped offense led by standout running back Devin Roche and speedy quarterback Quinn Hennicle?

Playmakers like Mario Easterly anchor an aggressive secondary, while tight ends and receivers look poised for breakout roles.

Host Dave Schultz spotlights ODU’s transformation with insights from Coach Rahne and player interviews.

Key discussion points include handling massive roster turnover, repl...

South Alabama Jaguars must rebuild after portal losses threaten their Sun Belt resurgence.

Can quarterback Bishop Davenport ignite a turnaround and restore the momentum from their recent 10-win season?

Major Applewhite faces tough questions about South Alabama’s quarterback depth, offensive leadership, and the challenge of closing out tight games.

Dave Schultz spotlights key players like Javyon Henderson and Kenton Jerido, dissecting how their experience and leadership can anchor both defense and offensive line.

The episode covers strategies for generating more takeaways, adding disguises to defensive fronts, and re-establishing a punishing ru...

Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns rally behind quarterback Lunch Winfield and head coach Mike Desormeaux, aiming to reclaim Sun Belt dominance in 2026.

After overcoming a season filled with injuries and lineup changes, Desormeaux credits his squad’s grit for their late-season surge and bowl eligibility. Can the Cajuns build on that momentum with a healthy roster and new playmakers emerging?

Host David Schultz spotlights Winfield’s leadership, George Jackson’s physical transformation on the offensive line, and a dynamic running back group ready to step up.

Key discussions include the importance of offensive stability, improvements on def...

App State Mountaineers eye a breakout 2026 season under head coach Dowell Loggains, banking on new quarterback Malachi Singleton’s leadership and electric playmaking. Can this revamped roster, featuring linebacker Colton Phares, translate offseason momentum and the Sun Belt’s top recruiting class into victories on the field?

Dave Schultz spotlights App State’s resilience after close 2025 losses, bold bowl game decisions, and the strategic move to quarterback stability with Singleton’s appointment.

Key discussions include Loggains’ commitment to accountability, roster speed upgrades, and the push toward a player-led culture. Insights from Singleton and Ferris reveal the compet...

Troy Trojans target Sun Belt supremacy as Gerad Parker enters Year 3 with high expectations and a roster brimming with talent. Can standout quarterback Goose Crowder, defensive force Donnie Smith, and elite punter Evan Crenshaw propel Troy to the top?

The drive for the championship is fueled by a reinforced coaching staff, improved team chemistry, and a determination to capitalize on last year’s near-miss in the Sun Belt Championship game.

Dave Schultz spotlights key strategies— from turnover margin to field position— while exploring Donnie Smith’s rapid rise from JUCO to preseason Defensive Player of the Year...