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

Louisiana’s college football landscape faces a seismic question: Should Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns, Louisiana Tech Bulldogs, and ULM Warhawks drop to FCS amid staggering athletic department deficits?

Dave Schultz examines Louisiana Board of Regents member Wilbur Pryor’s controversial proposal, comparing financial realities at schools like Vanderbilt and Nicholls, and challenging whether moving down a tier would truly benefit these storied programs.

Can FCS status revive budgets or will it gut rivalries and attendance? Schultz spotlights the broader impact on Sun Belt Conference competition, the recruiting advantage in a talent-rich region, and how outside economic forces...

James Madison Dukes ride Camden Coleman's poise into Sun Belt spotlight. Can this rising quarterback lead JMU to a championship push?

Dave Schultz sits down with Coleman to unpack his transition from Richmond to Harrisonburg, his "speed to the next" mentality after adversity, and the mental game behind quarterbacking at the collegiate level.

The discussion spotlights JMU's 46-20 win over ODU, the challenges of cross-country travel after facing San Diego State, and how new offensive schemes are mastered through team connection. Insights include building trust with playmakers like Cole Keller, navigating the transfer portal, and...

Sun Belt Conference backs the Protect College Sports Act as Congress intensifies its focus on the future of NCAA athletics. Will new transfer rules, agent commission caps, and scholarship protections genuinely level the playing field—or just reinforce old power structures?

Dave Schultz breaks down the sweeping reforms impacting NIL rights, transfer limitations, and antitrust protections, highlighting how G6 programs like James Madison and Tulane stand to gain or lose from the legislation.

Insightful analysis raises questions about athlete involvement in these decisions, the balance of power between coaches and players, and the political intrigue sh...

James Madison Dukes show promise but fall short of elite status after a commanding 46-20 win over Old Dominion. Despite the victory, issues linger—short field goals over touchdowns and ongoing transitions at quarterback with Camden Coleman stepping in.

The conversation focused on JMU’s need to polish their red-zone effectiveness and adapt to new team dynamics amidst Sun Belt chaos.

Several points were raised, including Troy Trojans’ offensive inconsistency under Goose Crowder and Arkansas State’s narrow escape against Kennesaw State.

The discussion explored ULM Warhawks’ continued struggles following a heavy defeat by FAU, an...

Appalachian State nearly pulled off a dramatic comeback, rallying from two separate 21-point deficits before falling to NC State 41-31.

Can the Mountaineers transform this "good loss" into Sun Belt dominance?

The conversation focused on Malachi Singleton’s gutsy performance, Duke Scott’s 148-yard rushing showcase, and the high-stakes momentum swings as App State clawed back with an onside kick recovery and clutch scores.

A key theme that emerged was how App State’s resilience against the Wolfpack could shape their Sun Belt campaign, especially with upcoming showdowns against Old Dominion and Coastal Caroli...

Southern Miss stuns fans by losing twice in one day—first to Tulane on the field, then with Head Coach Blake Anderson’s controversial postgame comments.

Missed field goals and questionable third-down decisions haunt the Golden Eagles’ narrow 24-21 defeat, sparking frustration across Hattiesburg.

Can Southern Miss rebound from both the loss and the backlash?

Host Dave Schultz recaps a dramatic Sun Belt weekend: Georgia State Panthers surge to 3-1 behind Cameran Brown, Marshall snatches a miraculous win with a late field goal, and Ragin’ Cajuns’ defense dominates in a 34-7 rout of Charlotte...

James Madison Dukes overpower Old Dominion Monarchs as Camden Coleman throws four touchdowns and JMU’s defense stifles ODU’s ground game.  Can JMU keep rolling in the Sun Belt?

Dave Schultz breaks down the 46-20 rout, spotlighting Pettaway’s breakout 110-yard performance, Cole Keller’s red zone dominance, and the Dukes’ relentless offensive balance. Despite explosive stats, red zone stalls and short field goals spark debate about JMU’s ability to finish drives.

Key moments include Marshall’s nail-biting comeback win over Gardner-Webb, Southern Miss’ heartbreaking blocked chip-shot field goal in the Will Hall Bowl against Tula...

JMU eyes a leap to the American Athletic Conference—but is chasing bigger TV revenue worth the risk?

Dave Schultz explores James Madison University's bold overtures to the AAC, the swirling conference realignment rumors, and what it means for programs across the Sun Belt and beyond.

From Miami (OH) dangling $30-40 million for a move, to the financial gap between the AAC and leagues like the MAC and Conference USA, the stakes have never been higher for schools hoping to secure their athletic futures.

Schultz compares JMU’s ambitions to the pitfalls faced by R...

NC State faces a critical bounce-back test after a gut-wrenching late-game meltdown against Vanderbilt. Can Grayson Boone’s Wolfpack regroup mentally and physically in time to handle a hungry Appalachian State squad led by quarterback Malachi Singleton?

The pressure’s on in Raleigh—fan frustration is mounting, and a second consecutive loss could put Dave Doeren’s future in jeopardy.

Hosts Dave Schultz, Grayson Boone and Kenton Gibbs spotlight key matchups, including NC State’s explosive offense vs. App State’s resilient defense, Singleton’s efficient play, and the risk of letting the Mountaineers hang around.

...

Sun Belt Conference shakeup looms as James Madison eyes a pivotal win over Old Dominion. With JMU favored on the road and Old Dominion desperate to avoid a disappointing start, can Camden Coleman’s rising form push JMU further, or will Quinn Henicle and ODU find their footing?

The action heats up with Houston’s return to Statesboro in the “Willie Fritz Bowl,” while questions swirl around Clay Helton and Georgia Southern’s ability to bounce back after a crushing defeat.

Dave Schultz spotlights Troy’s must-win clash at winless Utah State, Arkansas State’s emotional matc...

Liberty surges past Coastal Carolina with a dominant second-half, raising big questions about the Chanticleers’ direction under Ryan Beard.

Can Deuce Bailey’s promising quarterback play save the season, or will offensive woes and play-calling concerns continue to haunt Coastal?

Dave Schultz breaks down Liberty’s crushing 34-17 win, spotlighting key moments like Bailey’s up-and-down performance, Nick Petrino’s controversial decisions, and Liberty’s relentless ground attack.

Key topics include the struggles of Coastal Carolina’s run game, Liberty’s clinical second-half adjustments, and the Sun Belt’s rapidly shifting power dynamics.

Schultz detai...

Kentucky Wildcats ride sky-high after shocking Texas A&M, but will Will Stein’s squad avoid a letdown against the surging South Alabama Jaguars?

With running back CJ Baxter powering the offense and Kenny Minshew settling in at quarterback, Kentucky’s explosive attack faces a gritty South Alabama team eager to capitalize on an early kickoff and defensive lapses.

Chris Gordy joins the crossover to spotlight key matchups—can Major Applewhite’s Jaguars ignite their run game and exploit Kentucky’s suspect defense?

Offensive weapons like Willie Rodriguez and Kenny Darby have emerged for the Wi...

Coastal Carolina eye redemption against former coach Jamey Chadwell as they host Liberty in a nationally televised showdown.

Can Ryan Beard’s Chanticleers seize the spotlight and even the score, or will Liberty capitalize on Coastal’s early missteps?

Dave Schultz analyzes Coastal’s odds, quarterback dynamics, and the stakes of a sold-out matchup that puts the Sun Belt center stage.

The countdown to pivotal conference clashes heats up as Louisiana travels to face struggling Charlotte and Georgia State aims to bounce back versus Northern Illinois.

Schultz spotlights the “Will Hall Bowl”—Tu...

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...

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...