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

Southern Miss and Coastal Carolina shake up the Sun Belt with bold head coaching hires—can Blake Anderson and Ryan Beard spark immediate turnarounds?

Blake Anderson returns to Southern Miss after a challenging personal journey, bringing years of experience and optimism for retaining key players like Braylon Braxton.

Meanwhile, Ryan Beard’s rapid rise from Missouri State to Coastal Carolina’s top spot at just 36 raises the question: Will his youth and adaptability lead the Chanticleers to the next level?

Dave Schultz analyzes both programs’ outlook, exploring Anderson’s proven leadership and Beard’s potential...

Billy Napier impresses at the JMU press conference as he prepares to steer the Dukes’ football program into a new era. Will Napier’s blend of his own coaching philosophy and the established “JMU way” keep the team contending for Sun Belt East dominance?

Dave Schultz spotlights Napier’s approach to staff transitions, transfer portal strategy, and recruiting, raising the stakes for player retention and immediate results after years of winning. Key discussions examine JMU’s fourth-ranked Sun Belt recruiting class, the realities of coaching turnover, and the evolving College Football Playoff landscape for Group of Five teams like T...

JMU football faces a rare situation: overlapping head coaches as Billy Napier steps in while Bob Chesney prepares the Dukes for their college playoff run. Could this unique handoff give JMU a competitive edge for spring ball and the transfer portal?

Dave Schultz explores the unprecedented scenario, weighing the strategic benefits and potential pitfalls for both JMU and Tulane, who find themselves in similar circumstances.

Sun Belt basketball heats up with South Alabama hit by injuries and the Cajuns scrambling after transfer setbacks. Insights include upcoming conference play, key player absences like Peyton Law, and...

James Madison Dukes dominate the Sun Belt but stumble against Louisville—can their defensive grit carry them into elite territory in the College Football Playoffs?  JMU’s six second-half shutouts showcase their coaching prowess and in-game adjustments. Curious about their matchup against the powerhouse Oregon Ducks and the statistical showdown between the Sun Belt and Big Ten contenders?

Dave Schultz examines JMU’s season trajectory, major blowout victories, and nail-biting wins amid intense conference parity.

The podcast dives into Oregon's dynamic offense led by Dante Moore, balanced rushing attack, and formidable scoring defense, comparing them to last...

JMU crashes the College Football Playoff, shaking up the power structure and sending shockwaves through the national media. Can Alonza Barnett III and Head Coach Bob Chesney ride this momentum to a legendary upset over Oregon?

Dave Schultz examines the Dukes’ defensive stand, strategic adjustments, and the matchup odds against the Big 10 powerhouse, questioning whether the narrative finally favors the underdog.

Key topics include the Sun Belt sending nine teams to bowl games, the ACC's tiebreaker chaos, and the national uproar over two Group of Five programs making the playoff.

Dave Schultz spotlights JM...

James Madison Dukes topple Troy Trojans to claim the 2025 Sun Belt Championship, powered by Wayne Knight’s explosive 212-yard rushing showcase. Can JMU punch their ticket to the College Football Playoff and prove the Group of Five deserves a shot at the big time?

Dave Schultz breaks down JMU’s gritty win, analyzing Alonzo Barnett III’s uneven quarterback performance, the dominance of the Dukes’ defense, and pivotal moments including Troy’s missed opportunities after forced turnovers.

Key topics include Sun Belt season surprises from Old Dominion and Southern Miss, the playoff debate between G5 and P4, an...

JMU Dukes shake up the college football scene by hiring former Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns head coach Billy Napier—can he restore his Sun Belt magic in Harrisonburg?

Dave Schultz spotlights Napier’s coaching journey, dissecting his successes with the Cajuns, the quarterback controversies at Florida, and why his return makes waves for both JMU and the broader Sun Belt Conference.

Schultz also breaks down JMU’s sweep of the league’s postseason awards, sparking debate over whether stars like Alonza Barnett III and Trent Hendrick truly deserved their accolades over standouts such as Colton Joseph and Chris...

James Madison Dukes break into the College Football Playoff rankings at No. 25, but can they beat the odds and secure a playoff spot? The conversation intensifies around JMU’s path, the committee’s shifting criteria, and the uphill battles they face against powerhouses like Alabama and Notre Dame.

Dave Schultz questions the playoff committee’s rationale and highlights the fanbase’s surprisingly mature reaction to the rankings shakeup.

Key topics include Colton Joseph’s transfer portal announcement, Sun Belt recruiting surprises on Early Signing Day, and JMU’s dominant season despite off-field uncertainties.

Insights cov...

UCLA Bruins make a bold move by naming Bob Chesney as Head Football Coach, sparking debates about his fit and potential for instant success in the Big Ten. Can Chesney’s proven experience and recruitment prowess ignite a turnaround for a struggling UCLA program?

Zach Anderson-Yoxsimer and Dave Schultz spotlight Chesney’s dynamic personality, game-changing second-half strategies, and impressive results at James Madison despite massive roster turnover.

The conversation heats up around quarterback Nico’s future, the challenges of recruiting in Southern California, and Chesney’s ability to build defensive and offensive line depth.

With U...

JMU’s Bob Chesney lands the UCLA head coaching job, sparking fresh excitement in the college football landscape. Can the Pennsylvania native conquer West Coast recruiting and revive the Bruins vs Big Ten competition?

Dave Schultz explores whether Chesney's rapid ascent—from Holy Cross to James Madison and now UCLA—signals a new era for blue-blood programs seeking hot G5 coaches.

Key topics include Sun Belt coaching carousel drama, with Charles Huff’s name circulating for AAC and Sun Belt openings, and nine Sun Belt teams surging into bowl season.

Dave Schultz breaks down key...

Coastal Carolina fires Tim Beck despite three straight bowl appearances—can the Chanticleers recover from quarterback uncertainty and heavy losses to James Madison?

Georgia Southern shakes up its defensive coaching staff while Clay Helton doubles down, signaling big changes after a season of inconsistent play.

The episode highlights the Sun Belt’s volatile coaching carousel, the upcoming signing day crunch, and the pressure-packed Sun Belt Championship, where JMU stands as huge favorites over Troy.

Dave Schultz breaks down key stats for Georgia Southern’s porous defense, how quarterback injuries derailed Coastal Carolina, and the ra...

The Sun Belt Conference faces a season of surprising twists, missed opportunities, and a race for bowl eligibility. Can Troy or Southern Miss seize the West Division championship, and will James Madison’s flawless record earn playoff consideration despite a challenging schedule landscape?

Dave Schultz breaks down the stakes, spotlighting teams like Coastal Carolina, Old Dominion, and App State battling for postseason spots.

Analysis covers pivotal coaching changes, quarterback performances from Braylon Braxton and J.J. Kohl, and the impact of key matchups like Marshall vs. Georgia Southern and Texas State vs. South Alabama.

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Southern Miss’ defensive woes threaten their Sun Belt Championship dreams as they face Troy in a high-stakes showdown. Can the Golden Eagles regain their early-season edge and stop the ground assault that’s plagued them against Texas State and South Alabama?

Dave Schultz and Scott Watkins break down defensive mismatches, discuss Braylon Braxton’s injury status, and analyze how the 4-2-5 scheme may be Southern Miss’ undoing—unless key adjustments are made before the big game.

The conversation explores the evolving coaching landscape across Group of Five programs, the future of Charles Huff at Southern M...

James Madison Dukes face playoff roadblocks as the College Football Playoff committee continues to overlook top G5 contenders.

Is the system stacked against JMU and fellow Group of Five programs like Tulane and North Texas? Dave Schultz argues that despite James Madison’s stellar campaign and high AP poll ranking, the “big boys” have shut the door, favoring three-loss Power 5 teams and long-established programs over rising challengers.

Dave Schultz spotlights committee biases, a potential SEC–Big Ten breakaway championship, and the futility of a G5-only playoff.

Sun Belt bowl hopes heat up, with Lou...

Should the Sun Belt Conference eliminate divisions or keep its traditional East and West split? Dave Schultz tackles the heated debate as Old Dominion, arguably the second-best team, is set to miss the Sun Belt Championship due to current divisional rules. Rivalries like South Alabama vs. Troy and Louisiana vs. Southern Miss hang in the balance, raising questions about the future of Sun Belt football and fan engagement.

Key discussion points include how divisional formats impact bowl eligibility, potential coaching carousel shake-ups, and standout performances across the league.

Dave Schultz examines key matchups such as...

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...

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.

Early on, the game’s complexion was transformed by a series of unexpected fumbles and opportunistic plays. Arkansas State jumped to a 10-point lead after capitalizing on a scoop and score, but the Cajuns quickly answered back after seizing an Arkansas State punt fumble, narrowing the gap to 10-7. On the very next kick...

College Football Playoff committee stirs controversy with shifting criteria—will fan outrage force a change? Dave Schultz spotlights head-scratching ranking inconsistencies affecting JMU, Tulane, Miami, Notre Dame, and Alabama, questioning whether strength of schedule and losses are being applied fairly across the board. With the Sun Belt having James Madison in the mix, is it time for greater transparency in college football’s playoff process? 

Dave Schultz previews the nationally televised clash between the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns and Arkansas State Red Wolves, exploring Butch Jones’ coaching impact and the Cajuns’ roster struggles following suspensions. 

Key highlights i...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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.

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...

SOUTHERN MISS GOLDEN EAGLES head coach CHARLES HUFF reveals his blueprint for building a 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...

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.

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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...

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.<...

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...

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...

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...

SOUTHERN MISS and TROY clinch bowl eligibility with clutch victories. Can they sustain their momentum in the Sun Belt Conference?

Host Dave Schultz breaks down the Golden Eagles' and Trojans' impressive wins, highlighting Braylon Braxton's stellar performance and Troy's comeback abilities.

The discussion covers Arkansas State's three-game winning streak, Butch Jones' coaching impact, and Jaylen Raynor's contributions.
Schultz analyzes Louisiana and Georgia Southern's disappointing seasons, exploring offensive line issues, injuries, and coaching concerns.

Don't miss this in-depth look at the Sun Belt's rising stars and struggling programs. Tune in for expert insights...

Sun Belt Conference football heats up as Southern Miss aims for bowl eligibility against ULM. Will the Golden Eagles soar to victory?

Dave Schultz breaks down key matchups, including App State vs ODU and Arkansas State vs Georgia Southern.

The analysis covers Charles Huff's offensive strategy, JJ. Kohl's improved ball security, and the quarterback situation for the Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns.

Schultz examines Troy's performances and predicts outcomes for the weekend's games, highlighting potential upsets and standout players.

Don't miss this in-depth look at the Sun Belt's most intriguing storylines and game-changing...

Can South Alabama's road woes continue against struggling Georgia State? The battle of 1-6 teams takes center stage as the Jaguars face the Panthers in a crucial Sun Belt showdown.

Dave Schultz breaks down the surprising 6.5-point spread favoring South Alabama on the road. He analyzes both teams' recent performances, coaching situations, and the impact of the transfer portal.

The discussion shifts to financial challenges in the Sun Belt Conference, sparked by a recent John Hartwell interview.

Schultz examines JMU's dominant defensive display against ODU and questions their absence from playoff conversations.

COLLEGE SPORTS INSIDER: Former AD reveals financial challenges and coaching search secrets

John Hartwell, ex-ULM Athletic Director turned consultant, offers a rare glimpse into the world of college sports administration.

He breaks down the staggering financial realities faced by Group of Five schools, using James Madison University as a prime example.

Hartwell shares insider knowledge on the intricate process of coaching searches, explaining the crucial role of search firms in maintaining confidentiality.

The conversation shifts to Hartwell's challenging tenure as AD at the ULM, where he navigated budget constraints and tough...

College athletics faces seismic shifts. How are NIL, coaching contracts, and conference realignment reshaping the landscape?

Former ULM Athletic Director John Hartwell provides insider insights on the evolving world of college sports. He discusses the impact of NIL on recruitment strategies, the complexities of coaching buyouts, and the financial challenges threatening sustainability.

Hartwell analyzes Louisiana Tech's move to the Sun Belt Conference and praises Commissioner Keith Gill's leadership.

The conversation covers the changing dynamics of player development, the shortened "window of opportunity" for coaches, and potential solutions to the financial strain on institutions.<...