GATA Talk: Recent Episodes
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GATA Talk is a podcast dedicated to all things Georgia Southern Eagles football. Hosted by Georgia Southern University alums Matt Mauney and Cody Anderson, GATA Talk will give you weekly insight into GS football, including game recaps and previews, hot takes and armchair quarterback analysis. This podcast is for Georgia Southern football fans, created by two dudes who bleed blue and white.
In this bonus episode, Matt and Cody discuss some big news out of the transfer portal. Quarterback Max Johnson will play his final year of college football at Georgia Southern. The Eagles land the former UNC, Texas A&M and LSU QB after JC French entered the transfer portal and signed with Cincinnati.
Show Notes:
- Is it a given that Max is the new starter?
- Outlook for the Georgia Southern QB room
- If healthy, Max is a big-time recruit for the Eagles
- What does Max Johnson bring to the Eagles?
- Win now pressure for Clay Helton
- Winning should be top priority for incoming transfers
In our Season 8 finale, we recap Georgia Southern's win in the Birmingham Bowl against App State, react to a slew of Eagles entering the transfer portal, debate the QB situation going into 2026 and recap coaching changes. It's a loaded episode, one of our longest yet, and last one (most likely) until the Spring Game.
Show Notes:
- Eagles Beat App State for Second Time in 2025
- Defense Was Bend and Don't Break
- Offense Left a Lot of Points off the Board
- Does This Win Change the Perception of the Season?
- Transfer Portal: Entire O-line and JC French Gone
- QB Situation: Turner Helton, Weston Bryan or Transfer?
- Defensive Departures and Needs
- Coaching Changes and Mutz's Staff
- JMU Held Their Own Against Oregon
- Future of Bowl Games
Georgia Southern has hired Mike Mutz as the new defensive coordinator. The news broke after we recorded, but Matt gives his instant reaction at the top of the show. The rest of this super-sized episode previews the Birmingham Bowl matchup against App State and features an in-depth discussion about the current state of college football and the Group of 5/6's place in the FBS and the College Football Playoff.
Show Notes:
- Instant Reaction: Mutz Hired as DC
- Birmingham Bowl Most Prestigious Yet for Georgia Southern
- App State Preview Part 2
- Breaking Down the Bowl Selection Process
- App State Pairing Could be Worst Case Scenario for Helton
- State of College Football Deep Dive
- Is JMU Making the CFP Good or Bad Long Term?
- Thoughts on a Potential G5/6 Playoff
- Ideal Scenarios for Reformed Post-Season Play
The regular season has come to a close and Georgia Southern somehow made a bowl game, finishing 6-6 overall and 4-4 in Sun Belt play after the Eagles' first win at Marshall in 35 years. The following day, news broke that Defensive Coordinator Brandon Bailey was relieved of his duties, in what appears to be a complete overhaul of the Georgia Southern defense headed into 2026. In this episode, Matt and Cody discuss the firing, preferences for our next defensive coordinator and discuss the upcoming bowl game.
Show Notes:
- Eagles Beat Marshall for First Time in 35 Years
- Bailey and LB Coach Fired: More Changes to Come?
- What Helton Needs to Prioritize in a DC
- Camden Brown Caps Off Record Regular Season
- Brown Should be the Case Study for P4 Wideouts
- Weston Bryan's Future with the Eagles Offense
- Bowl Game: Does It Matter and Is a Win Possible?
- Eagles Must Elevate Above Mediocrity
Old Dominion handed Georgia Southern its worst home loss in program history on Senior Night, a 45-10 drubbing where the Eagles didn't score a touchdown until garbage time and had negative rushing yards at the half. The Eagles now cling to the hope of bowl eligibility by trying to win at Marshall for the first time since 1990.
Show Notes:
- Comparing ODU Loss to the Georgia State Loss Under Fritz
- If Changes Don't Happen After Marshall, It's Time to Revolt
- Offensive Overhaul May be Needed as Well
- Fans Are in Two Boats: Apathetic or Furious
- What DC Worth Their Salt Would Sign Up for this Circus?
- Bowl Eligibility Is On the Line at Marshall
- Thundering Herd in Similar Position After Loss Against App
OJ Arnold has one of the best performances from a Georgia Southern player in recent memory with nearly 400 yards of total offense and touchdowns running, passing and receiving to lead the Eagles to a 45-40 shootout win against Coastal Carolina. Now 5-5 on the year and 3-3 in the Sun Belt, Georgia Southern hosts Old Dominion for Senior Night. Can the Eagles find a way to slow down ODU's rushing attack and score points against one of the best defense in the conference?
Show Notes:
- Have Yourself a Day, OJ Arnold!
- Camden Brown Snags Three More Touchdowns
- Clock Management at the End of the First Half
- Defense Had Its Moments, but Still Allowed 480 Yards
- Freedom II Reveal and Thoughts
- Crowd Review: Thin and Cleared Out in Third Quarter
- ODU Preview: Monarchs Are Rolling as of Late
- Eagles Will Need to Play Near Perfect and Hope for ODU Mistakes
- Can the Eagles Make a Bowl, and Does It Ultimately Matter?
Georgia Southern got a big win on the road against App State. While it always feels great to beat your rival, the question remains: was this a good win or is App State that bad? Matt and Cody reflect on the game and preview the home matchup against Coastal Carolina.
Show Notes:
- Always a Great Day to Beat App
- Eagles Still Haven't Played a Complete Game
- Redzone Offense Becoming an Issue
- Defense Still Allowed Over 400 Yards After Hot Start
- Coastal Carolina Has Been an Up and Down Team
- Coastal Is a One-Man Show on Offense
- Key to Victory Will be Efficiency and Consistency on Offense
Georgia Southern heads up to Boone, North Carolina to take on rival App State on a Thursday night, nationally televised game. The Eagles are searching for answers after a letdown on the road against Arkansas State, where Georgia Southern's defense gave up nearly 500 yards and the offense could only muster three points in the second half. Now, following the dreaded bye week, the Eagles must face a 4-4 App State team in one of the toughest venues in the Sun Belt Conference.
Show Notes:
- Sad State of the Program: How Did We Get Here?
- Is Strength and Conditioning to Blame for Any of This?
- Will a Coordinator Change at Season's End Be Enough?
- What Will It Take to Move on from Helton After This Season?
- Budget Insights: Can We Afford the Buyout After All?
- Monken Rumor: Army's Coach Interested in a Return to the Boro
- Arkansas State Letdown: Poor Play-Calling and Clock Management
- App State Preview: Mountaineers Trying to Find a QB1
- Eagles Will Need Consistent Offense for Four Quarters to Win
Georgia Southern gets its first Sun Belt Conference win of the season thanks to a dominate second half against in-state rival Georgia State. Now, the Eagles must find a way to win a conference game on the road as they head to Jonesboro to face Arkansas State.
Show Notes:
- Tale of Two Halves Against Georgia State
- Will the Eagles Every Play a Complete Game?
- Defense Gives Up 444 Yards in a Blowout Win
- JC French Had His Best Game of the Year
- Arkansas State: Mirror Image of the West
- Eagles Struggle on the Road While Red Wolves Thrive
- Arkansas State's Offensive Woes Could Benefit Eagles Defense
Georgia Southern falls to 2-4 overall and 0-2 in Sun Belt Conference play as the Eagles failed to overcome a horrendous first half against Southern Miss at home on a Thursday night, nationally televised game. Now, the Eagles are desperate for a win as they host in-state Rival Georgia State, who will be looking for it's first win of the season against an FBS opponent.
Show Notes:
- Horrible First Half Dooms Eagles Against Southern Miss
- Have We Played Even a Complete Half of Football?
- French Admits to Lacking Confidence; Mindset Can't Continue
- Helton Needs to Look in Mirror and Accept Accountability
- Everything Looks Hard for the Eagles Offense
- Georgia State Heads to Statesboro Struggling
- This Is a Must-Win for the Eagles for Many Reasons
It's our first emergency podcast of the season! On the morning of Oct. 1, an anonymous X (Twitter) account called hailsouthern365 sent us and a few other a Google Drive link that contains what appears to be present and past Georgia southern football contracts. It's a treasure trove, Eagle Nation. From the expired contracts of Jeff Monken and Willie Fritz to the current deals of Head Coach Clay Helton and his coordinators and assistants, this leak sheds light on a lot of things.
Please note: The X account has revealed himself, and noted that the files were obtained through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request.
Show Notes:
- Helton's Five-Year Extension Has Occurred EVERY Year
- Buyout Over $3M and Doesn't Drop Under a Million Until After 2028
- Aplin and Bailey Guaranteed Through 2026
- Several Assistants Guaranteed Through Next Season
- Poor Performance Doesn't Count for 'For Cause' Termination
- Database Includes Contracts of Monken, Fritz and Others
- Where Do We Go From Here?
- Listener Question: Evaluation of the Program After a Decade in FBS
Georgia Southern dropped its Sun Belt Conference opener to James Madison 35-10 in a game that was never close and was never competitive. Now, the Eagles head into their dreaded bye week, where they are just 1-6 in the Clay Helton era, before hosting a surging Southern Miss team in a Thursday night affair on Oct. 9.
Show Notes:
- JMU Result Not Surprising: Sign of More to Come?
- Offensive and Defensive Lines Were Dominated
- Defense Remains Dreadful, But Offense Not Much Better
- The Dreaded Bye Week, Where Eagles Are 1-6 Under Helton
- Southern Miss Preview: Huff and Braxton Seeking Revenge
- East Title Seems Out of Question, Is a Bowl Even Likely?
After a rough start, Georgia Southern got things rolling to defeat FCS opponent Maine 45-17 to finish out-of-conference play at 2-2. Now, the season truly begins, as the Eagles head up to Virginia to face James Madison, the preseason favorite to win the Sun Belt East.
Show Notes:
- Rough First Quarter Against Maine
- New Secondary Sponsor in Section 103!
- Eagles Need to Pull Out a Complete Game Against JMU
- Weston Bryan Continues to Shine, Will Play Rest of Season
- JC French Doing Enough to Win, Turnovers Unfortunate
- Dalen Cobb Was a Few Plays Away from Record Day
- JMU Preview: Dukes Only Allowing 17 PPG
- Eagles Must Slow Down JMU Rushing Attack
- GS Needs Clean Sheet and Forced Turnovers
- Sun Belt Preview 2.0: Who's the Favorites After Four Weeks?
Georgia Southern gets its first win of the season in its first home game of the year, beating Jax State 41-34. The defense struggled, but showed some grit and fight in the second half. The offense was balanced and efficient, and the Eagles' special teams looks to be the most improved unit so far on the young season. Matt and Cody discuss all of this, and preview the Maine Black Bears.
Show Notes:
- Paulson Crowd and Atmosphere Was ELECTRIC!
- Defense Struggled Early but Showed Fight Late
- Eagles Defense Still Historically Bad, Statistically Speaking
- Special Teams Shines, from Kicking to Cobb's Return
- Offense Was Balanced and Efficient
- Weston Bryan Needs More Touches
- Previewing Maine: Struggling Black Bears Head to Paulson
- Need to Get Up Early, Fine Tune Defense, and Play Younger Players
- First Home Game Reviews: Freedom Statue, Concessions, Vibes
Georgia Southern ends its forgettable, season-opening road trip in California 0-2 after a record-setting loss to USC. The Eagles gave up 755 yards to the Trojans, the most in program history. After giving up over 100 points and 1,300 yards through two games, the Eagles are desperate for answers — and a win — to overcome its woes. Enter Jax State, the reigning Conference USA champions, who are coming off a big win against Liberty where then rushed for 338 yards on 50 carries. Will Georgia Southern channel the Power of Paulson to get its first win, or will the defense crumble yet again as the Eagles fall to 0-3?
Show Notes:
- USC Has Record Day on Offense
- Boneheaded Play Calling Continues
- Defense Is What It Is: We Must Outscore to Win
- Bright Spots: Camden Brown and Weston Bryan
- Why Are We Not Trusting Our Kicker?
- Jax State Presents Recipe for Disaster for the Eagles
- Resetting Expectations: What's Realistic After an 0-2 Start?
Georgia Southern started the 2025 college football season with a disappointing 42-14 loss at Fresno State. Instead of previewing Game 2 against USC, which now looks to be an inevitable loss, Matt and Cody unpack what exactly happened in the Valley last Saturday against the Bulldogs, including what might be fixable and what remains as major concerns for the rest of the season for the Eagles. Show Notes:
- We Looked Awful in All Three Phases
- Defense Had No Adjustments for Fresno's Running Game
- Special Teams Is a Major Issue Moving Forward
- Lack of Accountability by Clay Helton
- We Won't Win Another Game Playing Like That
- USC Loss Is Almost a Formality
- Season Now Starts at Home Against Jax State
- Is It Possible the Eagles Were Looking Ahead to USC?
It's officially game week, Eagle Nation! Georgia Southern's first opponent of the 2025 college football season already has one game under its belt, as the Fresno State Bulldogs fell to the Kansas Jayhawks 31-7 in Week 0. Matt and Cody break down that game and predict how the Eagles may fair against Fresno State when they take them on in the San Joaquin Valley.
Show Notes:
- Fresno State Was No Match for Kansas
- EJ Warner Looks Average at Best After Scripted Plays
- Bulldogs Don't Seem to Have Many Proven Play-Makers
- Defense is Fairly Fast and Likes to Send Pressure
- Fresno States Special Teams Unit Looks Rough
- Can We, Should We and Will We Beat Fresno State?
- This Game and Every Game Is Ultimately About Us
Part 2 of our 2025 Georgia Southern football preview is here, and it's the episode many of you have been waiting for, as we discuss expectations for the season ahead. Matt and Cody break down the schedule, discuss key matchups, and outline what success looks like in 2025.
Show Notes:
- Breaking Down the 2025 Schedule
- We'll Get an Early Look at Fresno State
- We Can Play USC with Reckless Abandon
- Jax State a Possible Trap Game in Out-of-Conference Play
- Is the Season Already Over If We Lose to James Madison?
- No More Excuses: Byes, Mid-Weeks, Playing Down to Opponents
- Is It Conference Title of Bust? East or Bust?
- Our Biggest Challenge in 2025 Is Ourselves
We're back for episode 2 of Season 8 of GATA Talk. In this one, we go in-depth with the Georgia Southern football roster, breaking down offense, defense and special teams. Who are the returning stars? What about possible breakouts? And can't forget the key transfers. Matt and Cody discuss all of this and more in this episode.
Show Notes:
- Yes, There Was an Autotune Issue in Episode 1
- New Sponsor Is Our Old Sponsor - KnKut Tools!
- Defense Preview: D-Line and Backfield a Strength
- Special Teams Preview: Big Question Mark at Kicker
- Offense Preview: Deepest WR Core in the Sun Belt and Returning QB
- Predicting Outcomes: PPG, Points Allowed, 1,000+ Yard Guys
GATA Talk is back for its eighth season! Matt and Cody recap a relatively quiet offseason for the Georgia Southern football program. The guys pay tribute to Freedom and two other tragedies within Eagle Nation, and talk conference realignment with the soon departure of Texas State and the addition of Louisiana Tech.
Show Notes:
- GATA Talk Is Now on YouTube!
- In Memoriam: Tay McKibbins, Quin Williams and Freedom
- Texas State: Big Loss or No?
- Is La Tech Joining Really That Bad?
- Future Conference Addition Considerations
- New Special Teams Coordinator and Position Coaches
- Looking Ahead to Future Preview Episodes
The Eagles are headed to Louisiana for the R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl on Dec. 19 against Sam Houston. Matt and Cody preview the matchup, warn fans to not underestimate the Bearcats, recap the Sun Belt Conference coaching carousel and bring back a fan favorite — Fun Facts!!!
Show Notes:
- Thoughts on New Orleans Bowl Selection
- Getting to Know the Sam Houston Bearkats
- Bearkats Have Solid Defense and Tricky Offense
- Coaching Change Sends More Than a Dozen to the Portal
- App State Has Very Underwhelming Head Coach Hire
- Marshall Loses Huff, Brings in West Virginia Native
- Georgia Southern Recruiting Class Recap
- Fun Facts About Sam Houston and New Orleans
It was a bitter-sweet final Saturday of the 2024 regular season for Georgia Southern as the Eagles beat arch rival App State but came up a play short of winning the Sun Belt East as Marshall beat James Madison in double overtime. Matt and Cody recap the App State win and breakdown the 8-4 regular season. Were expectations met? Where do we go from here? Are changes of any kind warranted?
Show Notes:
- App State Game Was as Strange as Ever
- Crowd Was Electric and Single Season Attendance Record Set
- Honoring the 2024 Senior Class
- How Does the 8-4 (6-2) Record Stack Up to Other FBS Years?
- Defense Recap: Was It as Bad as Some Fans Think?
- Offense Recap: Eagles Regressed in 2024
- Special Teams Recap: Placekicking and Punting Were Solid
- Does the Result of the Bowl Game Matter?
- Should We Be Concerned With Margin of Victory?
It's officially Hate Week, and there's so much more on the line than simply bragging rights. Georgia Southern is still very much in the Sun Belt East race going into the final game of the regular season against App State, needing a win and a Marshall loss to book a spot in the conference championship game. Matt and Cody discuss the lopsided win at Coastal Carolina, what needs to improve to beat App and win a title, and cover all of the postseason scenarios for the Eagles.
Show Notes:
- It All Comes Down to the Final Week
- Defense Shines Against Coastal
- Concerns Over Red Zone Offense and Run Game
- We Must Not Beat Ourselves Against App State
- Breaking Down Championship Game Scenarios
- Get to Paulson, Set Attendance Record, and Will the Team to Victory
Following a disappointing loss to Troy in Paulson, Georgia Southern finds itself desperate for a win to stay in the Sun Belt East race. To make matters worse, the program finds itself in the middle of drama, with underwhelming reactions from head coach Clay Helton, ensuing backlash from fans and another departure of a prominent player in Issac Walker.
Show Notes:
- The Troy Game Was NOT 'NFL-like'
- Response from Helton More Upsetting Than the Loss
- Play-calling Against Troy Was Atrocious
- Coordinators Need to Answer for Their Decisions
- Breaking Down the Isaac Walker Situation
- Does This Program Have a Shared Goal of Championships?
- Previewing Coastal: Hungry Team Looking for Bowl-bid
- East Title Still in Reach, But Optimism Isn't High
- Silver Lining: We're 3-0 After Losses This Season
Georgia Southern comes out of the bye week in the driver's seat of the Sun Belt East, but they will host Troy this Saturday without their backup quarterback. Matt and Cody discuss the abrupt departure of Dexter Williams II and what it may mean for the remainder of the season. The guys also preview a Troy team that is finding their identity thanks to a strong running game and a familiar face in the backfield.
Show Notes:
- Dexter Williams Is Gone: Instant Reaction
- Who Is to Blame for This?
- Eagles Down to French and Two True Freshmen
- Claiming Dex Was Deserving of QB1 Is Short-sided
- Previewing Troy: Rough Start But Finding Their Stride
- Running Game Features Former Eagle Gerald Green
- Key to Victory Is Stopping the Run and Establishing It Offensively
- Outlook on Rest of Season and Sun Belt East Race
Georgia Southern becomes bowl eligible and moves solely into first place in the Sun Belt East after a come-from-behind victory on the road, in November, against South Alabama. Matt and Cody discuss the much needed win and the outlook for the rest of the season as well as the recent athletic director change from Jared Benko to Chris Davis.
Show Notes:
- Cardiac Eagles Strike Again
- Total Team Effort in Fourth Quarter
- Unlike Marshall, Both QBs Were Key in Win
- JC French Played Safe, But Made the Plays When Needed
- Defense Looked Shaky at Times, but Pitched Shutout in Fourth
- Running Game Concerns: OJ Needs More Touches
- Benko Out, Chris Davis In
- Jared Benko Is the Best Georgia Southern AD Since Bucky
After an embarrassing loss on the road against Old Dominion, Georgia Southern heads to Mobile, Alabama, to try and get back on track and do what they have been unable to do in the Clay Helton era — win a meaningful conference road game in November. In what Matt and Cody consider a must-win game against South Alabama, will the Eagles show up ready to compete in Mobile, or will it be another disappointing outcome in a stadium outside of the state of Georgia?
Show Notes:
- Eagles Showed Up 'Black Out Drunk' in Norfolk
- Why Can't This Team Compete in Conference Road Games?
- Defense That Came to Play Against JMU Did Not Show Up
- JC French's QB Play Continues to Regress
- Expectations for the Final Four Games of the Regular Season
- South Alabama Presents a Lot of Problems for the Eagles
- GS Must Stop the Run and Find a Way to Run the Football
- Eagles Must Find a Way to DRIVE When in the Driver's Seat
Georgia Southern moves into the driver's seat of the Sun Belt East race after a huge home win against James Madison. Now, the Eagles turn their attention to Old Dominion on a short week up in Norfolk, Virginia.
Show Notes:
- Winning Despite Four Turnovers Is Telling
- Defense Delivers Excellent Performance Against JMU
- Offense Did Enough, And French Played Well
- Power of Paulson Frazzled the Dukes
- Eagles Have Target on Their Back and Will Get the Best of Everyone
- ODU Is Similar to Nevada Both on Offense and Defense
- This Game and Rest of the Season Is About GS, Not Opponents
It was one for the ages as Georgia Southern mounted a historic comeback victory against Marshall 24-23 at Paulson Stadium last Saturday. Now the Eagles have to quickly turn their attention to a James Madison team headed to Statesboro for what looks to be the East Division Championship game in the Sun Belt Conference. Matt and Cody put the comeback win into perspective, discuss the play of Dexter Williams II, blast the officiating and preview what seems to be the toughest conference test on the schedule as the Dukes roll into Paulson.
Show Notes:
- Are We Dreaming, Or Did That Actually Happen?
- Virtually No Coverage Despite Epic Comeback and Highlight-Reel Plays
- Defense Delivers Strong Performance on Slow Night for the Offense
- Worst Officiated Game in Recent Memory
- QB Play: Is There a Controversy?
- Previewing JMU: Dukes Are First in Offense and Defense in the Belt
- Mistake-Free Football Has to Happen, Along with Quick Start
- Power of Paulson and Expected Stadium Environment
After taking a week off for the Georgia Southern bye week and the aftermath of hurricane Helene, GATA Talk is back to get you ready for a huge White Out game at Paulson Stadium against Marshall! Matt and Cody discuss all the great things they witnessed in the Eagles win against Georgia State and break down what will need to happen to improve to 2-0 in conference play as the Thundering Herd head to Statesboro.
Show Notes:
- Hurricane Helene: Donate What You Can; Many Are Still Hurting
- Defense Look Fantastic in Atlanta Outside of Two Plays
- Offense Put on a Masterclass of Play Calling and Execution
- Special Teams Continues to Shine Outside of Muffed Punt
- Marshall Has New Face Behind Center
- Air Raid Not So Airy for the Thundering Herd
- Insider Trading: Eagles Have Former Marshall OC on Staff
- Thundering Herd Defense is Fast and Disruptive
- Eagles Should Win as Long as Offense is Humming
- Embrace the White Out and Be LOUD!
Eagle Nation, it's been a long time coming! After a week of online controversy leading into rivalry week versus Georgia State, the Panthers biggest advocate and personality accepted an open invite to come on GATA Talk. Ben Moore of 247 Sports and PantherTalk.com discusses the major differences between Georgia Southern and Georgia State, the state of the rivalry, the new official name, thoughts on Saturday's game and the stereotypes that need to be broken among both schools. He also discusses recent tailgating changes in Atlanta and what Georgia Southern fans need to know if they plan on attending the game.
Show Notes:
- No Room for Bigotry on Either Side of Rivalry
- Stay Off of Recruits' Social Media Posts Other Than Commitments to Your School!
- Breaking Down GS-GS Altercation in 2022
- New Name of Rivalry: Does It Matter?
- Names of Stadiums: Acceptable to Call it Turner Field?
- Ben’s Thoughts on the Upcoming Game
- What Happened with GT, Chattanooga and Vandy?
- What to Expect from Dell McGee
- Game Day Tips and Tricks for Georgia State Home Games
As expected, Georgia Southern suffered its second loss of the season last week, this time at the hands of a top five Ole Miss Rebels team. Now, with the out-of-conference schedule in the books and the Eagles at 2-2 on the season, the Sun Belt Conference race begins this Saturday in Atlanta as Georgia Southern takes on rival Georgia State. Now known as the Georgia Grown Bowl, will the Eagles rise to the occasion and bring a win and a new rivalry trophy back to Statesboro?
Show Notes:
- Ole Miss Went As Expected
- Eagles Dominated Up Front on Both Sides
- French, Gilmore and Chance Gamble All Bright Spots for GS
- Sun Belt 2.0 Preview Now that (Most) OOC Games Are Done
- Georgia State Gets Extra Week to Prepare and Hasn't Left Atlanta
- 'Modern Day Hate' Is No More, Apparently
- State Brings Balanced Attack, Will Look to Establish the Run
- Our Offense Should Be Able to Score, But How Will the Defense Fare?
- Georgia State Tends to Suck the Fun Out of Everything
Georgia Southern improved to 2-1 on the young season with a 42-14 win over the South Carolina State Bulldogs last Saturday in Paulson. Now, the Eagles gear up for their final out-of-conference game of the season, and what will likely be their tallest task as they take on an Ole Miss team that has outscored opponents 168-9 in the first three games of the season.
Show Notes:
- The Defense Is What It Is: We Must Outscore Teams
- Offense Was Solid, But Were All or Nothing at Times
- Something Is Off with Jalen White
- Shouldn’t Risk Hurting French Up Big Against an FCS Team
- Should We Start OJ Arnold Against Ole Miss?
- Ole Miss Preview: Tall Task for Eagles
- 4 Keys That Must Happen for It to Be Close Against Rebels
- Need to Come Out of Oxford Injury Free
The Eagles pulled out a close one in Reno with a 20-17 win over Nevada to improve to 1-1 on the young season. Now, Georgia Southern returns home for a tune up game against the FCS South Carolina State Bulldogs. Matt and Cody break down the good and bad on offense and defense, the bright spot of special teams, and what we'd like to see in a must-win game against South Carolina State in Paulson.
Show Notes:
- Special Teams the Bright Spot in Reno
- Defense Struggles Early, Then Bends but Doesn’t Break
- Offense Goes Cold in Second Half
- Concerns with Run Game and Play Calling?
- Too Many Costly Penalties
- South Carolina State Preview: Bulldogs Should be Overmatched
- Eagles Need to Smooth Out Run Blocking and Execution This Saturday
The Boise State Broncos stampeded into Paulson Stadium, putting up over 650 yards of total offense in a 56-45 win over Georgia Southern in the season opener. Matt and Cody discuss what went wrong with the Eagles defense and why they looked so inept, especially rush defense. The guys also preview a Nevada team that will provide a big test on the road and critique the Georgia Southern fan base, specifically those still living in the 80s and 90s eras of Eagles football.
Show Notes:
- Broncos Run on Eagles at Will
- Defensive Front Seven Needs a Lot of Work
- Bad Start to ‘Top 25 Defense’ Claim by Helton
- Don’t Panic: The Hype Around Boise and Jeanty Is Real
- Secondary Played Decent Other Than One Drive
- JC French’s Grade In Debut at QB1
- Offense Was Forced to Be One Dimensional
- Lot of Options at Wide Receiver
- Aplin Did an Excellent Job with Offensive Play Calling
- Key Criticism of Offense? Ball Security
- Kicking Was Limited But Solid
- Nevada Preview: Much Tougher Test Than Originally Thought
- Wolfpack Isn’t Boise, But They’ll Test Our Rush Defense
- Eagles Have to Find a Way to Win on the Road
- Cody Calls Out the ‘Old Guard’ and Unrealistic Expectations
- Doing More with Less Doesn’t Exist in FBS Football
- Game Day Experience: SXC, Ribbon Board and HEAT
It's finally game week, and it's time for our first opponent preview of 2024! Matt and Cody discuss the QB1 decisions for both Georgia Southern and Boise State, and preview the Broncos' elite running back, experienced defense, their game manager at quarterback and their young and inexperienced head coach. What will it take for the Eagles to pull off the upset as home underdogs? Find out on this jam-packed episode!
Show Notes:
- GATA Talk Meet-and-Greet Coming This Saturday!
- QB1 Decision: We (and many others) Were Wrong
- Boise Goes with 5-10 Game Manager Over Former 5-Star
- Boise State’s RB Is the Real Deal
- WR: Many New Faces at Wideout for the Broncos
- Defense: Front Seven Strong, Secondary Questionable
- Special Teams Could be the Difference in Boise’s Favor
- Coaches: Can a Young Head Coach Keep the Magic Alive?
- Outcome Likely to Be Razor Thin
- Atmosphere: Sellouts and Student Crowds on Holiday Weekend?
- Send Us Your Tailgate Info!
It's the episode Eagle Nation has been waiting for — season expectations! How many games will Georgia Southern win in 2024? What's the ceiling? What's the floor? Matt and Cody break down the recent scrimmages, the schedule game-by-game, and the Sun Belt East and West in this jam-packed episode!
Show Notes:
- Two Scrimmages in the Books: Thoughts?
- QB1 Battle: Now a Two-Person Race?
- What Will Being ‘More Balanced’ Look Like?
- Sun Belt East Preview: Wide Open with Parity
- Sun Belt West Preview: Texas State’s to Lose?
- 24th Hardest Schedule: Absolutely Brutal Start to Finish
- Expectations: Matt and Cody’s Floor and Ceiling
- Do Bowl Games Matter in the Group of Five?
- Our Reality: Future Schedules Won’t Be Any Easier
- How Will Results Play Into 2025 Expectations?
Part 2 of our Georgia Southern football preview is here, and we're talking about the offense! Matt and Cody discuss what the offense may look like under new Offensive Coordinator Ryan Aplin, what the run-pass ration may be with a young quarterback and who that QB1 might be. Can the offense surpass 2023 numbers? Who will replace Khaleb Hood as the top wide receiver? Will tight ends and running back be utilized more? And will a revamped offensive line with a new coach give up less sacks than a year ago? We'll answer all this, and more!
Show Notes:
- Offense by the Numbers: Better or Worse Than 2022?
- How Many Turnovers Is Too Many?
- Scaling Down Passing Expectations for Young QB
- O-Line Has Experience and Depth, & New Coach
- Tight Ends Need to Be Utilized More
- Receiving Core Is Filled with Weapons
- Running Back Room May be Most Talented Ever
- Who Is Going to be the Quarterback?
- Weighing the Options at QB
- Wrinkles in the Eagles Offense Under Aplin
- Great to Have Choice, Depth and Longevity at QB
- Tyler Budge: The Future at Quarterback?
- QB1 Needs to be a Strong Leader, Not Just Talented
- Final Thoughts on Georgia Southern's Offense
We're just weeks away from the start of the 2024 Georgia Southern football season. We kick off our four part Season Preview by breaking down the Eagles' defense and special teams. Head Coach Clay Helton had some high praise for this year's defense. Can they truly be a top 30 or even top 25 defense? What about special teams? A new kicker and new punt returner could have an immediate impact - positive or negative - on how this season goes for the Eagles.
Show Notes:
- Bold Claims About Defense at Media Days
- What Would It Take to Be a Top 30 Defense?
- D-Line: Best Position Group on Defense?
- Who Will Carry Linebackers Other Than Watson-Trent
- Secondary Needs Big Leap Forward for D to Dominate
- Biggest Threats from Opposing Offenses
- Special Teams: Question Mark at Kicker
- Smith Returns as Punter
- Even Without Hood, Returners Should Be Solid
- Long-Snapper: Yes, We Discuss the Long-Snapper
- Final Thoughts About Defense
After our usual hiatus and ghosting after another embarrassing bowl loss to a MAC team, GATA Talk is back baby! Matt and Cody go through all the major storylines of a very eventful offseason for Georgia Southern football, complete with coaching changes, record donations, a fresh crop of transfers, and more.
Show Notes:
- Apologies, Not Excuses, for Hiatus
- Field Naming Rights Controversy
- ‘Adapt of Die’ Mentality
- New OC: Blessing in Disguise?
- O-Line Coach: Biggest Move of the Offseason?
- QB Development Is a BIG Need
- Under-the-Radar Coaching Hires
- Position Group We’re Most Excited About
- Coaching Carousel: Dell McGee Back in the Sun Belt
- 4 p.m. Kickoff for Boise: Advantage?
- Little Bit of Baseball Banter
- Tease for Season Expectations
Fun Facts are BACK for our Myrtle Beach Bowl preview. That's right, our short-lived, yet wildly popular segment returns! We also talk football as Georgia Southern prepares for their final game of the 2023 season as they face the Ohio Bobcats in Myrtle Beach...errr Conway...to kick off the bowl season.
Show Notes:
- Myrtle Beach Bowl a Good Selection, All Things Considered
- Changes: New CB Coach and Beau Allen Enters the Portal
- Fun Facts: Famous Ohio Alumni, Drunken Jack and Cults
- Ohio Preview: Great Defense, with Top Offensive Player in Portal
- Who Will Our QB1 Be? Who Should It Be?
November ends with zero wins, and Georgia Southern finds itself with its second straight 6-6 end to the regular season. Matt and Cody discuss what went wrong to close out the season, break down some stats from Clay Helton's two seasons in Statesboro, and predict where the program goes from here.
Show Notes:
- Winless Novembers Is Not the Standard Benko Promised
- App State Recap: Rival Pours Salt in our Wounds
- Success and Turnaround of Peers Makes Our Regression Look Worse
- Breaking Down Some (Unfavorable) Stats from the Helton Era
- Where Do We Go From Here? QB, Coordinators, Transfers?
- Way Too Early 2024 Season Projections
After its third straight loss, Georgia Southern is looking for answers, and fans are looking for changes — change in attitude, game planning, play calling and overall offensive play. Matt and Cody discuss what needs to happen to salvage the season and give this program some momentum headed into 2024.
Show Notes:
- Worst Offensive Showing of the Season
- Team Does Not Look Ready or Motivated to Play
- Who Is to Blame and What Needs to Change?
- Addressing Helton's Flippant Press Conference Comments
- Leadership Lacking, Especially on Offense
- Will Helton Make the Tough Decisions to Move Us Forward?
- Hate Week: App State Coming Off Biggest Win of the Year
- App's QB May Be One of the Most Efficient They've Had in a While
- Low Expectations for Saturday: Can We Avoid an 0-4 November?
This was a difficult episode to record, and we had to do it twice due to technical difficulties. Georgia Southern is still searching for its first Sun Belt Conference road win, and it only has one more opportunity when the Eagles close out the regular season at App State. But first, the Eagles will try and go 6-0 at home as Old Dominion heads to Paulson.
Show Notes:
- Road Struggles Continue
- Offensive Play Calling Has Been Terrible
- Tackling Continues to Be an Issue for the Defense
- Changes That Need to Be Made in Short-Term, Long-Term
- Future of QB1 Still Up in the Air
- Old Dominion Preview: Scrappy Team with Solid Run Game
Another road game, another road loss. Georgia Southern looks like a completely different team on the road this year. And things don't get any easier with two of the final three regular season games on the road, starting this Saturday at Marshall.
Show Notes:
- This Team Is Not Prepared to Win on the Road
- Over-indexing the "Power of Paulson"
- Turnovers, Play-Calling and Bad QB Play
- Defense Has Worst Showing of the Season
- Time to Switch Things Up at QB?
- Marshall Preview: Struggling Team with Still Plenty to Play For
After an emotional and much-needed win over in-state rival Georgia State at Paulson, the Eagles will face Texas State in their first of three road games to close out the regular season in November. Can Georgia Southern do what it hasn't been able to do the majority of its recent history and close out the final month strong? Can the Eagles prove to be true contenders in the East and win 3-of-4 on the road? Matt and Cody discuss.
Show Notes:
- State Win Was Needed, But Now It's About Finishing Strong
- Brin Still a Liability, Offensive Play-calling Concerns, Clock Management
- Students Rushing the Field: Was It Warranted?
- Texas State: Might Be Toughest Remaining Game
- History of Weird Games in San Marcos
- Still Searching for Signature SBC Road Win
- Too Early to Talk About Bowl Destinations?
Short week, long episode. After an ugly win against ULM, we have plenty to talk about. Is Davis Brin the answer at QB1 for the rest of the season? Will Georgia State downplay the importance of this game for the first time in the rivalry? Also, the power of Paulson was more wasn't felt against ULM — will it return against GagSt?
Show Notes:
- Offense inept in Second Half Against ULM
- Is Davis Brin the Answer for the Rest of the Season?
- At What Point Do You Move on and Look Toward the Future?
- KVT vs. Brin - Both Far From Perfect, but KVT Thrived in Big Moments
- Power of Paulson Was Flat and Unimpressive Against ULM
- Georgia State Preview: Panthers Having Best Season Ever
- This Game Will Define the Rest of the Season
Last Saturday wasn't a good day. Georgia Southern was dominated in every facet of the game against James Madison to fall to 4-2 on the season and 1-1 in the Sun Belt. In this episode, we don't relive the loss as much as analyze what we saw and how we can move forward. Do we put this loss behind us with still all of our preseason goals in tact or do we crumble under pressure with another mediocre finish in the final six games of the regular season?
Show Notes:
- Uninspired Performance Against JMU
- Bad Road Appearances in Big Games Continue Under Helton
- East Title and Bowl Still in Sight
- Fan Response: Do Our Part and Pack Paulson
- Team Has to Find the Fight and Bring it Every Game
- ULM Preview: A Team with Nothing to Lose Heads into Paulson
We're getting you ready for a huge Sun Belt East matchup this weekend between Georgia Southern and James Madison with a special edition of GATA Talk! Matt welcomes members of the JMU Sound Off podcast to get the perspective from the Dukes' fanbase. Later, play-by-play broadcaster Noah Frary from the Frary & Smith Podcast join the show to talk all things Sun Belt football.
Show Notes:
- JMU Sound Off: How Did It Start?
- How Is the JMU Fanbase Feeling Headed Into Saturday?
- How Does This Year's Game Compare to Last Year in Paulson?
- Getting to Know JMU QB Jordan McCloud
- Is the Front Seven of the Dukes Even Better Than Last Year?
- 2022 Field Storming at Paulson: Was It Warranted?
- Mindset of JMU Fanbase in Year Two of No Postseason
- Fan Guide for Visiting Harrisonburg, Virginia
- Noah Frary: Why the Sun Belt?
- Who Are the Surprise Teams So Far in the Sun Belt?
- How Does Georgia Southern Match Up with the JMU Secondary?
- How Will Weather Affect This Game?
Georgia Southern kicked off Sun Belt Conference play with a win in front of a record crowd at Paulson Stadium. Over 26,000 fans saw the Eagles get the best of Grayson McCall and Coastal Carolina in a 38-28 win. Now, Georgia Southern is gearing up for possibly its toughest conference opponent of the season as they face Jame Madison. Both teams are coming off a bye week in what should be the game of the week of the SBC.
Show Notes:
- Record-Setting Crowd at Paulson: Atmosphere Review
- Challenge for Fans: Let's Make Sellouts the Norm
- Coastal Recap: Offense Sputtered Out of the Gate But Got It Done
- Aussie Punter Steals the Show with Play of the Game
- Defense Makes McCall Look Pedestrian
- O-Line Continues to Struggle at Times
- JMU Offense: Good QB and Strong Run Game
- JMU Defense: Solid D-Line But Questionable Secondary
- Eagles Won't Be Intimidated by Big Opponent and Atmosphere
Georgia Southern bounces back in a big way with a 40-3 drubbing of Ball State in Muncie, Indiana to finish out-of-conference play at 3-1. Now, the road to a Sun Belt championship begins back in Paulson against the beach chickens of Coastal Carolina.
Show Notes:
- Best Road Performance in Recent Memory
- Defense Continues to Wow — Especially Rush Defense
- Brin Bounces Back in Big Way Against Cardinals
- Coastal Preview: Beach Chickens Look Off to Start the Year
- Getting McCall off the Field on Third Down Key
- Power of Paulson: Let's Break the Attendance Record!
- Sun Belt 2.0 Preview: Contenders, Pretenders and Surprises
Six turnovers plague the Eagles in Madison as they lose to the Wisconsin Badgers 35-14. Matt and Cody discuss the self-inflicted wounds that led to us beating ourselves to move to 2-1 on the season. The guys also preview Ball State and what it will take to return home with a 3-1 out-of-conference record.
Show Notes:
- Six Turnovers a Killer in Loss, But We Were the Better Team
- Not All on Brin: O-Line Was Exploited
- Defense Played Lights Out: Bailey Doing Wonders for Our Defense
- Kicking Game: Can't Put Lantz in Impossible Situations
- Previewing Ball State: They've Yet to Play a Peer
- Road Test Will be a Battle Against Ourselves
- Turnover Problem an Isolated Incident: Brin Will be Fine
Georgia Southern improves to 2-0 on the young season with a 49-35 win against UAB at home. Now, the Eagles hit the road for the first time this season as they head way up north to face the Wisconsin Badgers. Can the Eagles knock off a Big Ten team for the second straight season? Matt and Cody discuss.
Show Notes:
- UAB Win: Methodical, Well-Rounded Victory
- Defense Still Has Work to Do, But Has Improved
- Brin Looked Comfortable Running the Offense
- Weapons Galore for the Eagles
- Wisconsin Preview: Badgers Reeling After Washington State Loss
- Fast Start and Winning Turnover Battle Key to a Win
- Will We Be the Faster Team Saturday?
- Sun Belt Roundup: Winners, Losers and Biggest Surprises
Georgia Southern becomes just one of five FBS teams to pitch a shutout in Week 1 after a 34-0 win over The Citadel. Matt and Cody break down the game, concerns with penalties and QB play, and preview the first true test of the season with UAB coming into Paulson Saturday.
Show Notes:
- Thoughts on The Citadel: What Went Well and Concerns
- UAB Preview: Revenge on Our Minds
- Establish the Run and Stop the Run is Key Saturday
- Sun Belt in Week 1: Both of Our West Opponents Get Big Wins
- Game Day Atmosphere Review
It's time, Eagle Nation! Georgia Southern football is BACK! Matt and Cody preview the season opener against The Citadel along with other trending college football topics such as conference realignment and rules changes.
Show Notes:
- Excitement at an All-Time High Around the Program
- Previewing the Citadel: Bad FCS Team Going Through Transition
- What We Need to See Out of the Offense and Defense in Game 1
- Rules Changes: Will a Running Clock on First Downs Impact Us?
- Conference Realignment: Will the Sun Belt Expand - When and Who?
- How Do We Stack up for a 12-Team Playoff?
Get ready for our longest episode EVER! Nearly two hours of discussion for Part 2 of our 2023 Georgia Southern football preview. This one is all about predictions. How will the defense fair? Can the offense surpass last year's numbers? And yes...we will give our record predictions for the 2023 season.
Show Notes:
- Defense Predictions: PPG, Yards, Third-Down Efficiency, and More
- Offense Predictions: Can We Score More? Can Brin Throw for More?
- Schedule Breakdown: Must Wins, Trap Games, Toughest Stretches
- Sun Belt East and West Predictions
- Matt and Cody Give Their 2023 Record Predictions for GS
We are BACK! Your favorite Georgia Southern football podcast is back for Season 6, and we have our first title sponsor. GATA Talk is now brought to you by KnKut, owned by Georgia Southern alumni and Eagles super fan Andy Thompson. If you're in the market for premium drill bits and cutting tools, look no further than KnKut.com.
In Part 1 of our Georgia Southern Football Preview Extravaganza, Matt and Cody focus on all of the changes that took place during the offseason, and what effects those changes could have on the outlook of the 2023 season.
Show Notes:
- We're Back and Have an Official Sponsor!
- Coaching Changes: DC, O-Line and Position Coaches
- New Gunslinger in Town with Davis Brin
- QB Depth: Plenty of Talent for Years to Come
- Transfer Portal: Biggest Departures and New Faces
The Eagles are going bowling in Montgomery! Matt and Cody will get you ready to run through a brick wall as they preview the Camellia Bowl matchup against the Buffalo Bulls. The guys also discuss coaching changes, transfer portal, recruiting, and more in this post-season episode.
Show Notes:
- Previewing Buffalo: A Jekyll and Hyde MAC Team
- Game Is Winnable But Could Be a Shootout
- Kyle Vantrease Could Cement His Decision to Transfer to GS
- Coaching Changes Around the Belt
- Derrick Canteen Leaves: We Wish Him the Best
- Recruiting: Take a Deep Breath, the Sky Isn't Falling
- Montgomery, Colorado Weather and the Future of GATA Talk
We're going bowling and App State is home for the holidays! Matt and Cody react to the thrilling win over the Mountaineers in the regular season finale and discuss possible bowl destinations.
Show Notes:
- Wild Shootout Win Against Our Hated Rival
- Defense Did Just Enough When It Mattered Most
- Walk-Ons and Young Guns Showed Up and Showed Out
- Bowl Projections: Possible Bowl Destinations and Opponents
- What a Bowl Win and a 7-6 Season Would Mean for 2023
One game to decide it all. Happy Thanksgiving week, Eagle Nation! Georgia Southern heads into the final game of the regular season with their postseason dreams on the line. And it all comes down to Hate Week — a rivalry game with App State with a bowl eligibility at stake for both teams.
Show Notes:
- Marshall Loss: Defense Played Better, but Injuries Taking a Toll
- Student Section and Attendance: Not Apples to Apples
- Hate Week: What a Win and a Bowl Game Would Mean for 2023
- Pack Paulson: Be the Change You Want to Be
Buckle your seat belts, Eagle Nation, we're fired up! After a frustrating loss in the final road game of the regular season, Georgia Southern returns home still searching for its sixth win and bowl eligibility. Matt and Cody discuss the disappointing Thursday night loss on national TV, our pathetic excuse for a defense and what needs to change scheme, attitude and culture wise to get that elusive sixth win of the season against a solid Marshall team.
Show Notes:
- Our Defense Is Worthless: Something Has to Change to Win Another Game
- Defense Needs to Play Angry, Prove Everyone Wrong
- Offensive Struggles: Injuries, Play Calling or Defensive Pressure?
- Previewing Marshall: Another Top Defense Heads to Paulson
- Stopping the Herd's Running Game Is Key, But a Huge Ask for our D
- Losing Against Marshall Likely Means 0-4 to Close the Season
After a frustrating loss to South Alabama in Paulson Stadium, Georgia Southern heads to Lafayette, Louisiana, for its final road game of the regular season. Can the Eagles bounce back and become bowl eligible with a Thursday-night win against the Ragin' Cajuns on national TV?
Show Notes:
- South Alabama May Be the Most Frustrating Loss Yet
- Defense Will Not Win Us Games or Maintain Leads
- Offensive Production Slowed Without Slew of Weapons
- 3-and-1 Vanilla Play Calling Is a Big Concern
- Previewing Louisiana: Ragin' Cajuns Blew Their Own Lead
- Different Louisiana Team Than Past Years
- Eagles Still Have Plenty to Play for, and It Starts Thursday
After a much needed bye week, GATA Talk is back to get you ready for a huge matchup with South Alabama as the Jaguars head to Paulson Stadium. Georgia Southern improved to 5-3 on the year with a big road win against ODU in Virginia two weeks ago and now looks to become bowl eligible with a win against South Alabama in Statesboro.
Show Notes:
- ODU Recap: Most Well-Rounded Win Thus Far
- Defense Improving Little by Little
- Thank You Amare Jones!
- South Alabama Preview: Jaguars Have Many Similarities to JMU
- Keys to a Win Against S. Alabama
- Fun Facts Officially Retired for the Season
Georgia Southern sends another freshly ranked team home without a number next to its name. The Eagles put up nearly 600 yards of offense including 578 yards through the air for quarterback Kyle Vantrease. Now back over .500, the Eagles head up to Virginia to take on a confident Old Dominion team coming off a dominate performance against Coastal Carolina.
Show Notes:
- Wild Game and Record-Setting Day for Vantrease
- Defense Forced Turnovers and Showed Progress
- Our Offense Is FUN: If you Disagree, You Have Blinders On
- Was Storming the Field Warranted?
- Previewing ODU: Confident Team with Offensive Identity Shift
- Pivotal Game in Virginia with East Title Still in Play
After another heart-wrenching loss to rival Georgia State, the Georgia Southern Eagles return home to the friendly confines of Paulson Stadium to take on the nationally ranked James Madison Dukes. Matt and Cody discuss what went wrong against State, how the season outlook has (or hasn't) changed and what will be needed to get an upset win against the Sun Belt's Cinderella in JMU.
Show Notes:
- Turnovers, Line Play and Physicality the Difference Against State
- What Is Going on with the Defense?
- KVT Is the Guy: But at What Point Is He Not?
- JMU Preview: Veteran QB, Good Run Game and Excellent Defense
Georgia Southern loses a heartbreaker in Conway. Now the Eagles have to bounce back with another "road" game against rival Georgia State. Matt and Cody talk clock management and defense in the Coastal game, preview Georgia State and bring back the #FunFacts segment.
Show Notes:
- Clock, Refs and 4th Quarter Defensive Breakdown Against CCU
- Is Coastal the Most Hated Program in the Sun Belt?
- MUST Win Game at Turner Field
-
FunFacts About Georgia State
- Blue Pants?
Georgia Southern enters Sun Belt Conference play this week at 3-1 after a home win against Ball State. The Eagles now head to Conway, S.C., to face Coastal Carolina and — possibly for the first time — Grayson McCall.
Show Notes:
- Ball State Recap: No Quit in This Eagles Team
- OJ Arnold Is Going to a Problem for Opposing Teams
- Coastal Preview: McCall Could Miss Another One Against Us
- Keys to a Win Against Coastal
- Fun "Facts" About Conway, South Carolina
Georgia Southern enters Sun Belt Conference play this week at 3-1 after a home win against Ball State. The Eagles now head to Conway, S.C., to face Coastal Carolina and — possibly for the first time — Grayson McCall.
Show Notes:
- Ball State Recap: No Quit in This Eagles Team
- OJ Arnold Is Going to a Problem for Opposing Teams
- Coastal Preview: McCall Could Miss Another One Against Us
- Keys to a Win Against Coastal
- Fun "Facts" About Conway, South Carolina
Georgia Southern comes away with its first loss of the season after an UGLY game in Birmingham against UAB. Matt and Cody break down the frustrating loss, but explain why they remain optimistic for the rest of the season. It starts this Saturday as the team returns home to Paulson Stadium to close out the non-conference slate against Ball State of the MAC.
Show Notes:
- Two Weddings...And a Funeral in Birmingham
- Kyle Vantrease Had an Off Day, But It's Not the Norm
- Finding an Answer for Defenses Dropping Eight
- Defense Has to Tackle Better and Take Better Angles
- The Hangover Was STRONG for the Sun Belt
- Previewing Ball State: From Mason Jars to RBs with Pet Alligators
Georgia Southern comes away with its first loss of the season after an UGLY game in Birmingham against UAB. Matt and Cody break down the frustrating loss, but explain why they remain optimistic for the rest of the season. It starts this Saturday as the team returns home to Paulson Stadium to close out the non-conference slate against Ball State of the MAC.
Show Notes:
- Two Weddings...And a Funeral in Birmingham
- Kyle Vantrease Had an Off Day, But It's Not the Norm
- Finding an Answer for Defenses Dropping Eight
- Defense Has to Tackle Better and Take Better Angles
- The Hangover Was STRONG for the Sun Belt
- Previewing Ball State: From Mason Jars to RBs with Pet Alligators
IT'S CORN!!! Georgia Southern heads into Lincoln, Nebraska, and comes away with its first Power Five win as an FBS program, beating the Cornhuskers 45-42 in front of a sellout crowd at Memorial Stadium. Matt and Cody give their thoughts on the historic win, the faster-than-expected evolution of the Eagles' offense and what needs to happen to keep this momentum going. The guys also preview another tough road test as GS heads to Birmingham to take on UAB. Do the Eagles keep rolling, or will there be a hangover from the party in Lincoln?
Show Notes:
- Why This Nebraska Win Is Special
- Why This Eagles Team Is Different
- Kyle Vantrease Played Like a Man Possessed
- We Can Still Run the Football
- UAB Preview: Well-Coached Team Not to be Taken Lightly
- Keys to a Win Against UAB
IT'S CORN!!! Georgia Southern heads into Lincoln, Nebraska, and comes away with its first Power Five win as an FBS program, beating the Cornhuskers 45-42 in front of a sellout crowd at Memorial Stadium. Matt and Cody give their thoughts on the historic win, the faster-than-expected evolution of the Eagles' offense and what needs to happen to keep this momentum going. The guys also preview another tough road test as GS heads to Birmingham to take on UAB. Do the Eagles keep rolling, or will there be a hangover from the party in Lincoln?
Show Notes:
- Why This Nebraska Win Is Special
- Why This Eagles Team Is Different
- Kyle Vantrease Played Like a Man Possessed
- We Can Still Run the Football
- UAB Preview: Well-Coached Team Not to be Taken Lightly
- Keys to a Win Against UAB
The Clay Helton era of Georgia Southern football officially began with an expected win over FCS opponent Morgan State, but it was how our Eagles won that is the story. Matt and Cody break down the lopsided season opener and what (if at all) it tells us about this team. The guys also preview the first real test of the young season as the Eagles make the long trip to Lincoln, Nebraska, to face the Cornhuskers out of the Big Ten.
Show Notes:
- New GS Offense Starts Slow, But Finishes Dominant
- Defense Pitches Shutout: Thoughts on New-Look Defense
- Refreshing Blowout Against an FCS Foe
- How Is This Different Than the 2016 Savannah State Win?
- Previewing Nebraska: Winnable Game Against Struggling Cornhuskers
- Keys to Winning in Helton's Road Debut with GS
The Clay Helton era of Georgia Southern football officially began with an expected win over FCS opponent Morgan State, but it was how our Eagles won that is the story. Matt and Cody break down the lopsided season opener and what (if at all) it tells us about this team. The guys also preview the first real test of the young season as the Eagles make the long trip to Lincoln, Nebraska, to face the Cornhuskers out of the Big Ten.
Show Notes:
- New GS Offense Starts Slow, But Finishes Dominant
- Defense Pitches Shutout: Thoughts on New-Look Defense
- Refreshing Blowout Against an FCS Foe
- How Is This Different Than the 2016 Savannah State Win?
- Previewing Nebraska: Winnable Game Against Struggling Cornhuskers
- Keys to Winning in Helton's Road Debut with GS
September 3 is right around the corner and GATA Talk is here to get you ready for the start of the 2022 Georgia Southern football season opener again Morgan State. Matt and Cody dispute what pundits are saying about the transition to a more balanced or pass-heavy offensive attack and answer some tough questions about keys to a successful 2022 campaign.
Show Notes:
- How Long Will the Offensive Transition Take?
- Scrimmage Analysis
- Defense Looking Sharp Under Will Harris
- If/Then: Addressing Scenarios for a Successful 2022 Season
- Previewing Morgan State - HBCU out of the MEAC
New intro, who dis? GATA Talk is back as we usher in the conclusion of Sun Belt Media Days, the start of fall practice and count down the days until Georgia Southern football is back and the Clay Helton era begins! Matt and Cody give their predictions for the Sun Belt East and West divisions, discuss the keys to having a winning season and proving the doubters wrong, and break down the Eagles' offense, defense and special teams units.
Show Notes:
- Sun Belt Media Days Recap and Projections
- East Preview: Question Marks Around Every Team
- Why Kyle Vantrease Is the Perfect Bridge QB for the New Offense
- We Have One of the Best O-Line Coaches in the Country
- Skill Positions: Who Is Primed for Big Years?
- Defense: Plenty of Talent, But a Lot of Unknowns
- Special Teams: Significant Improvement Needs to Happen
- West Preview: Louisiana Takes a Step Back While South and Troy on the Rise
- GS Might Have the Toughest Draw with Cross-Division Games
The 2022 Georgia Southern Blue vs. White game is in the books, and with it concludes the first spring of the Clay Helton era. Matt and Cody discuss the spring game, how the new offense and defense is shaping up, and give their thoughts on realistic expectations in Helton's first year leading the Eagles.
Show Notes:
- Thoughts on Spring Game
- Progression of New Offense and Defense
- New Sun Belt Members: East Division Just Got a LOT Harder
- 2022 Schedule Overview and Thoughts
- What's a Realistic Record for Georgia Southern in Clay Helton's First Year?
- Benko and Helton Investing in the Program with IPF and S&C Program
- Shoutouts to other Georgia Southern Teams and Their Accomplishments
Happy new year and welcome to GATA Talk Season 5! Since we last recorded, Georgia Southern head football coach Clay Helton finalized his staff, including a rising star as defensive coordinator and an experienced O-line coach. Helton also brought in a veteran QB from Buffalo that will compete for the starting job. On top of all that, Matt and Cody also discuss the key players returning for Helton's first year at the helm of the Eagles.
Show Notes:
- Clay Helton's Georgia Southern Staff Part 2
- Will Harris an Exciting Defensive Hire
- Richard Owens Is the Guy We Need Coaching the O-Line
- Kyle Vantrease: Possible QB1 Transfers in from Buffalo
- Host of Players Return: JD King, TBG, Amare Jones, and More!
Clay Helton's first early signing period recruiting class at Georgia Southern is in the books and his staff is only partially assembled. Matt and Cody discuss Helton's first batch of recruits and the coordinators and assistants he's brought on board so far.
Show Notes:
- Helton's First Recruiting Class
- Best QB and Wide Receiver Class in History
- Defensive Standouts Helping with Recruiting
- Recruiting Grades for Helton's Class
- Staff Breakdown: Mostly Offense and Off-Field Roles
- Ellis as OC: Concerns Are Completely Justified
It's Thanksgiving week, and we're thankful for all of our listeners and the support they've given us this season. It's also App State Hate Week. Matt and Cody break down the BYU loss, the emergence of a new QB1 and what it will take to end the season with a win at The Rock.
Show Notes:
- BYU, Connor Cigelske and Flying Burritos
- A Debate About the New "Indoor" Practice Facility
- Mullen Out at Florida: Potential that Helton Returns Home?
- Coaching Carousel: Chip Lindsey Out at Troy
- 12-Team Playoff Expansion and What It Means for Georgia Southern
- App State Preview: What It'll Take to End the Season with a Rivalry Win
Georgia Southern picked up its third win of the 2021 season with an ugly and down-right weird victory on the road against Texas State. Now, the Eagles face one of their biggest tests of the season as they host No. 14 BYU. Can the Eagles pull off the massive upset on senior night?
Show Notes:
- A Strange Night in San Marcos
- A Tale of Two Quarterbacks
- BYU Preview: Perfect Night Needed for Eagles Upset
- USC Fans Are a Special Kind of Crazy
Georgia Southern is still searching for its third win of the 2021 season after a 28-8 loss in a cold and rainy Paulson Stadium at the hands of Coastal Carolina. But Matt and Cody look at the silver lining with more analysis on the Clay Helton hire and the possibility to seeing more Cam Ransom the rest of the season.
Show Notes:
- Not Many Positives Against Coastal
- Clay Helton Knocks Introductory Press Conference Out of the Park
- Confirmation That a New Offensive Identity Is Coming
- GS Needed Clay Helton More Than Helton Needed GS
- USC Didn't Have a Clay Helton Problem, They have a USC Problem
- More Cam Ransom and Potential Under New Regime
What a whirlwind the last 24 hours has been. The Braves are world champions and Georgia Southern football has a new coach in former USC head coach Clay Helton, a name many didn't consider until it quickly surfaced and became official. Matt and Cody discuss the hire and its impact on recruiting, the future of the triple option and the potential for Georgia Southern football under Coach Helton.
Show Notes:
- Clay Helton Is the Choice: Initial Reaction
- Recruiting, Timing and Impact
- Offensive Philosophy and Potential Staff
- Other Names Who Were Considered: Paul Johnson?
- Contract and Expectations
After a break from the bye week, GATA Talk is back! There is a TON to talk about, including conference realignment and a new and improved Sun Belt, the Georgia Southern coaching search and whether or not Georgia State is a rival.
Show Notes:
- Conference Realignment Recap
- Sun Belt Adds Four: Now Best G5 Conference
- Matt's Top Three Coaches He Doesn't Want
- Georgia State: A Rival Whether We Like It or Not
Another week brings more off-the-field drama to discuss. Matt and Cody talk about the removal of Gavin Adcock from the team, the heartbreaking loss against Troy and what Georgia Southern needs to do to turn things around on a short week as the Eagles head back to the Yellowhammer State to face the South Alabama Jaguars.
Show Notes:
- Gavin Adcock Dismissed: Comes Down to Respect for the Blue and White
- Troy Recap: What Went Right and What Went Wrong
- Is It Time to Play Cam Ransom More?
- South Alabama Preview: Keys to a Win on a Short Week
Georgia Southern is 1-0 in the Kevin Whitley era after a blowout win over Arkansas State to improve to 1-1 in Sun Belt play and 2-3 on the season. Matt and Cody discuss the game, what felt different with the team and the test the lies ahead on the road against a tough Troy defense.
Show Notes:
- Arkansas State Win: Team Responds Well and Shows Out for Four Quarters
- Breaking Negative Streaks: Turnovers and Third-Quarter Scoring
- Logan Wright's Big Day
- Soul of the Team: NaJee Thompson, Logan Wright & CJ Wright
- Troy Preview: Eagles Go Up Against Top 20 Rush Defense
- Why the StAte Win Isn't Like the 2017 South Alabama Win
- Subtle Changes Seem to Be Working Under Whitley
Georgia Southern becomes just the third FBS team this season to fire its head coach. A viral video of player misconduct seemed to force the issue of head coach Chad Lunsford's dismissal following a 1-3 start to the season. Matt and Cody discuss the decision, the bus surfing video, interim coach Kevin Whitley, where the team goes from here and the future of Georgia Southern's offensive scheme in this jam-packed episode.
Show Notes:
- The Chad Lunsford Era Is Over
- Bus Controversy a Discipline and a Safety Issue
- Kevin Whitley Name Interim and the Message That Sends from Benko
- Louisiana Recap and Arkansas State Preview
- Eagles Still Scoreless in 3rd Quarter and Still Zero Turnovers
- Expect a National Search for New Coach, Not Just the Same Retreads
- Offensive Direction: It's NOT Triple Option or Bust
Georgia Southern is limping into Sun Belt Conference play at 1-2 on the season following a 45-10 loss to a ranked Arkansas team. As the Eagles return home to Paulson Stadium, Matt and Cody discuss what it will take to turn things around, break down the few positives from the blowout in Fayetteville and preview the conference opener against Louisiana.
Show Notes:
- Back-to-Back 30+ Point Losses: A First for GS
- Arkansas May Not Be Our Biggest Test of the Season
- It's Completely Acceptable to Compare Ourselves to Our Peers
- Tough Questions and Great Answers in Team Press Conference
- Louisiana Preview: Stopping Levi Lewis and Getting Running Game Going
In perhaps the most emotional episode of GATA Talk to date, Matt and Cody discuss Georgia Southern's blowout loss to FAU, a divided fan base and what it all means moving forward.
Show Notes:
- FAU: What Went Wrong?
- College Football Is a Business and Fans Are Allowed to Be Critical
- Lose the Slogans, Props and Gimmicks and Return to GS Football
- Arkansas: Shocking Upset or 70-point Blowout - Could Go Either Way
It wasn't pretty, but Georgia Southern got its first win of 2021 against FCS Gardner-Webb. Matt and Cody discuss why the five-point win is concerning moving forward and why this game shouldn't be written off with the "a win is a win" attitude. The guys also preview FAU in what will be a long game for the Eagles if things don't improve significantly.
Show Notes:
- Why a Five-Point Win Against a Pedestrian Big South School Won't Cut It
- This Game Is Not the Same as the Campbell Nail-biter Last Year
- Both Young QBs Look Promising in Debut
- Who Gets the Start at QB Against FAU?
- Defensive Concerns, Especially the Secondary
- FAU: More Potent Offense and Equally Strong Defense as 2020 Owls
It's GAME WEEK!!! In our third and final 2021 season preview episode, Matt and Cody go game by game, breaking down the upcoming Georgia Southern football season. Topics include the QB battle, COVID vaccinations and a preview of our season opener against Gardner-Webb.
Show Notes:
- Scrimmage No. 2 Thoughts, Todd Bradley-Glenn Injury and COVID Vaccinations
- Our New Favorite Quote: 'Stats Are For Losers' - Chad Lunsford
- Game-by-Game Breakdown: Wins, Losses, Toss Ups and Storylines
- Predictions: Win-Loss Record and Do We Make a Bowl?
- Gardner-Webb Preview: Family Affair, and One Georgia Southern Fans Know Well
As we inch closer to the 2021 Georgia Southern football season, the guys break down the Eagles' offense, defense and special teams units. Eight starters return on both sides of the ball. Who will be breakout players, who will be the X factor and how will the units come together as we gear up for a challenging 2021 schedule?
Show Notes:
- Special Teams Preview: Beck, Kicking Duties, Returns & LS Questions
- Defense Preview: Baker Jr., Canteen, Wade, Birdsong, Wright and Ellis
- Offense Preview: Up Tempo, More Motion, More Big Plays
- Breaking Down TEs, O-line, WRs and QBs
Take two! After recording the night before the Justin Tomlin news, we called and audible and decided to record our 2021 season preview a second time. Matt and Cody take your Twitter questions about the quarterback situation, the outlook of the Georgia Southern offense and if it is championship or bust for the Eagles and head coach Chad Lunsford this season.
Show Notes:
- We're Good at a lot of Things, Timing Isn't One of Them
- Breaking Down the GS QB Situation
- Who Starts Game One: Cam Ransom or Sam Kenerson?
- What's the Deal with James Graham?
- QB1 at Season's End: Tomlin or Someone Else?
- What Will the Offense Look Like Under Ruse?
- Is It Sun Belt Title or Bust for Coach Lunsford?
- Realignment Tease and the Ever-Evolving Rumor Mill
Breaking news leads to an impromptu episode of GATA Talk! All signs point to the College Football Playoff expanding from four teams to 12, including guaranteeing at least one spot for a Group of Five champion. Matt and Cody discuss what this means for the Sun Belt, Georgia Southern and football as a whole.
Show Notes:
- What Would a 12-Team Format Look Like?
- 2020 Would Have Featured Two G5 Schools
- Expansion's Impact on Recruiting, Transfer Portal and NIL
- Could Georgia Southern Make a 12-Team Playoff?
- How Long Before a G5 Cinderella?
- Why the Expansion Is Great for College Football
Your favorite Georgia Southern football podcast is back for Season 4! And buckle up, Eagle Nation, because it's a long one. Matt and Cody discuss everything from basketball (as promised) to FCS spring football to a clearer QB competition coming out of spring camp.
Show Notes:
- Life News: Baby No. 3 for Cody and Matt Moving Out West
- Men's and Women's Basketball Season Recaps
- FCS Spring Football: The Lack of Attention Is Warranted
- Georgia Southern Spring Camp and Spring Game Recap
- No James Graham for Much of Camp: Is It Tomlin's Time?
- Is There a Waffle House in Colorado?
- Preseason Predictions: What to Respect and What to Dismiss
- Schedule Is Brutal and the Sun Belt Is Only Getting Better
- Question Marks Outside of QB Going Into 2021
- GS Is Finding Success Outside of Football
After a break for the holidays, GATA Talk is back for our Season 3 finale! And boy do we have plenty to talk about, including the New Orleans Bowl, offensive coaching changes, the transfer portal, Shai Werts' legacy and how the Sun Belt Conference grew stronger in the offseason.
Show Notes:
- We're Now on PayPal: Consider Tipping Your Favorite Podcasters (Link)
- New Orleans Bowl Recap
- Shai Werts' Legacy at Georgia Southern
- Coaching Changes: Offensive Overhaul and What It Means
- Transfer Portal: Players Leaving, Players Staying and New Commits
- Looking Ahead to 2021: Shaping Up to Be a Fun Year
- Sun Belt Got Better with Coaching Carousel
So much to talk about has led to our longest episode EVER! Matt and Cody touch on recruiting, the App State loss, the regular season as a whole and preview the New Orleans Bowl matchup with Louisiana Tech.
Show Notes:
- Achieving the Improbable: 12 Regular Season Games in 2020
- National Signing Day: Highly-Rated Recruits and Transfers
- App State Recap: Mosely, Plungers and What Went Wrong
- Regular Season Recap: 7-5 and Potential for 2021
- New Orleans Bowl: Battle of the Backup QBs
- Rest of the Sun Belt Pulling for GS?
- Where Does the Sun Belt Rank in the Group of 5?
- G5s Will Never Make Current CFP & Possibilities of Expansion
It's App State Hate Week...again. For the first time in eight years, Georgia Southern will play their arch rival on a Saturday. Matt and Cody recap the FAU game, positives and negatives they saw with the "new" offense and what it will take to pick up a third straight win against the goat-loving Mountaineers from Boone.
Show Notes:
- This One's for You, Brant from Metter!
- FAU Recap: Defense Shows Up and Shows Out
- Thoughts on Justin Tomlin and the Up-Tempo Ruse Offense
- A Way Too In-Depth Debate About Our Kicking Game
- App State Preview: Bragging Rights and Second Place in the East on the Line
- Will an Explosive Offensive Showing Shore Up the OC Job for Ruse?
- Will Werts Play, and What's the Outlook If He Does?
Let's try this again, shall we? Shane Marinelli, FAU insider and host of Inside the Burrow, joins the pod once again to discuss the Owls ahead of Saturday's rescheduled game. We asked Shane about the COVID-19 situation at FAU, breaking in a true freshman QB and his thoughts on why the defense has been so strong this year.
Show Notes:
- COVID-19 in Boca: FAU Has Had SEVEN Games Cancelled or Postponed
- Shane's Thoughts on QB Javion Posey and What He Brings to the Offense
- FAU Defense a Surprise in 2020
- Thoughts on Willie Taggart in His First Season with the Owls
- Unsung Hero on FAU: Who Should GS Fans Watch For?
For the second straight week there is plenty to discuss in the world of Georgia Southern football. Following a lose to (rival?) Georgia State, head coach Chad Lunsford made a change at the offensive coordinator position, relieving Bob DeBesse of his duties and moving former OC Doug Ruse into the interim role. Matt and Cody discuss what Ruse may bring to the offense, what our depleted defense may look like moving forward and what it will take to beat a very good FAU team.
Show Notes:
- DeBesse Out: Right Decision, But Timing Seems Odd
- Was the Georgia State Loss the Nail in the Coffin?
- What Will the Offense Look Like Under Ruse?
- Lunsford Should be Open to National OC Search
- Special Teams and Kicking Game
- Logan Wright Has Himself a Game
- Reynard Ellis Opts Out
- FAU Preview: Terrific Defense and Athletic QB
- Willie Taggart Is Good: Can't Get Out-coached Saturday
So much to talk about this week, so buckle up! Matt and Cody discuss the letdown against Army, the final drive, potentially losing several key players to legal issues, and whether Georgia State is a true rival.
Show Notes:
- Luck Finally Works Against Eagles in Army Loss
- Special Teams a Growing Concern
- Offense: The Case to Make a Change Now and Why We Won't
- The Final Drive and the Decision Not to Kick
- Werts vs. Tomlin and the Future of the QB Position
- Wesley Kennedy, C.J. Wright and others Arrested
- Time for Jalen White to Shine?
- Why Losing Wright May Have Bigger Impact Than Losing Kennedy
- Debate: Is Georgia State a True Rival?
- Previewing Georgia State: Another Potent Offense Capable to Putting up Points
After another close win to improve to 6-2 on the season, Georgia Southern hits the road to face an unfamiliar opponent with a very familiar head coach. Matt and Cody break down the 40-38 win against Texas State and preview Saturday's big matchup with Army and Jeff Monken.
Show Notes:
- Another Squeaker: Positives and Negatives on All Three Phases
- Georgia Southern 2020 Is a Gem for Networks and Third-Party Viewers
- Room for Improvement: Red Zone Efficiency and Explosive Plays
- Is Special Teams a Concern?
- Previewing Army: New Opponent with Familiar Coach
- Can't Get Overconfident In Our Ability to Stop the Run
- Keys to a Victory: Should We Pass More Against Army?
- Reminiscing on the Jeff Monken Era and What He Meant to the Program
It came down to the wire once again, but Georgia Southern came away with it's fifth win of the 2020 season last week, beating troy for the first time in four tries. Now the Eagles set their sights on the Texas State Bobcats, a team with more talent and offensive firepower than their record would lead you to believe.
Show Notes:
- Defense Shows Up and Shows Out Once Again
- Shout Outs for Stellar Performances
- Offense Racking Up Yards and Controlling Clock, But Not Scoring TDs
- Previewing Texas State: Dangerous Game for the Eagles
- We've Seen Two of the Best Catches in GS History in 2020
- Kicking Game Is Fine: No Need to Panic
Georgia Southern squeaked out another victory Oct. 29 against South Alabama to improve to 4-2 on the season and 2-2 in Sun Belt Conference play. The Eagles now welcome Troy for Homecoming in a game that will test the defensive secondary and the stagnant GS offense.
Show Notes:
- A Public Apology to Scott Sloan and the Defense
- Offense Still Lacks Identity, Consistency and "Kill" Mentality
- Good Start, But Feed. Kennedy. More!
- Troy Will Test Our Defense with Up-Tempo Passing Game
- We'll Need At Least 30 Points to Beat Troy
- Analytics: Not About Lack of Plays, But Lack of Explosive Plays & Scoring Opportunities
- Team Is Lacking GATA Mindset
- Rant About TD Guitar, LED Lights, Mo Bamba and...Glitter Bombs?
On a short week with South Alabama coming to Statesboro for a Thursday night, nationally televised battle, Matt and Cody recap the abysmal offensive showing in the loss against Coastal Carolina and what it will take to not lose our third conference game of the year against the Jaguars.
Show Notes:
- It Was Offense, Not Defense That Led to the Coastal Loss
- Kept Going to a Dry Well on the Passing Game
- Should Tomlin Play More?
- Game Likely More Lopsided If McCall Plays
- We're Regressing When Majority of Sun Belt Is Improving
- 6 Yards Per Play Bare Minimum on Offense - And We Aren't There
- We Discuss Coastal Carolina's Locker Room Wrestling Match
- Is Coastal Becoming a Rival of Georgia Southern?
- Previewing South Alabama: Confident Team with Solid Defense
- Keys to a Win: Get Kennedy the Ball More and Limit the Big Play
Georgia Southern got the convincing, dominate win it has been looking for all season. Yes, it came against UMass, but it was the type of game the Eagles needed to gain some confidence and work out some kinks as GS prepares for one of its biggest tests of the season in No. 25 Coastal Carolina.
Show Notes:
- Georgia Southern Finally Plays Four Quarters and Finishes
- Result Doesn't Change Outlook Much for Coastal Carolina
- Uptempo or Ball Control?
- ULM and UMass Were 8-8 on 4th Down Conversions: That Can't Happen
- Previewing Coastal: They're Vulnerable Against the Run
Only in 2020 would we be talking about a game that was scheduled less than 10 days from kickoff. Georgia Southern is now back to 12 games on its schedule after booking its seventh home game. Now, instead of an improbable three-week bye, the Eagles will host UMass Oct. 17.
Show Notes:
- Jared Benko Is a Miracle Worker
- You Don't Book UMass Unless You're Confident We'll Win
- Getting to Know the Minutemen
- We Need a Blowout Victory — But What Would That Ultimately Mean?
- Will Playing UMass Help of Hurt Our Chances Against Coastal
- Secondary and Defensive Play Calling Needs Work
- Cody Goes Full Bad Cop While Matt Remains Hopeful
They say football is a game of inches. That was the case Oct. 3 as Georgia Southern narrowly escaped Monroe, Louisiana, with a win. Matt and Cody break down what went wrong in the final 20 minutes of the game and where we go from here, including some unknowns with our next opponent.
Show Notes:
- Cardiac Eagles Theme Continues
- Offense Played Well Other Than Final Two Drives
- Why Were King and Kennedy Not Out for the Final Drive?
- Defense: Why Can't We Close out Halves and Games?
- Problems with Defense Isn't a Talent Issue
- Mix of Pass and Run: What's the Right Ratio?
- Hate Week/Week and a Half/Two Months
- Benefits of Playing App in December
- Coastal Carolina May Be Best Team in the Sun Belt
It wasn't the final result we wanted, but there are a lot of positives to take away from last week's 20-18 loss to a ranked Louisiana team. Will Georgia Southern be able to maintain the same intensity this week against a bad ULM team as the Eagles head back to the Bayou State for the second straight week?
Show Notes:
- Finding Positives in a Gut-wrenching Loss
- Key Moving Forward Is Consistency and Finishing Drives
- Offensive Play Calling and Getting Kennedy Touches
- Defensive Play Improved
- The Catch and the Two-Point Conversion
- Georgia Southern on Wrong End of Lucky Kick
- ULM Preview: Keys to a Blowout Victory
Things just got very interesting! With the news breaking that the No. 19 Louisiana Ragin Cajuns will be without some key starters for Saturday's game, we welcome in Josh from the Ragin Review Podcast, the fan podcast of Louisiana football.
Show Notes:
- Beyond Elijah Mitchell: Key Starters Out for Cajuns
- How Will a Young and Inexperienced Louisiana Secondary Factor in?
- Depth Behind Mitchell: How Much of a Drop off Is There?
- Shai Werts Could Have a Big Game
- Perception of Georgia Southern Amongst Louisiana Fans
- Confidence Level of Cajun Fans Heading Into Saturday
After an unanticipated "bye week," Georgia Southern hits the road for the first time in 2020 to open Sun Belt Conference play against No. 19 Louisiana. Was the postponed FAU game a blessing in disguise? How healthy of a team will we see back against the Ragin' Cajuns, and can the Eagles pull off the upset and get the third win over a ranked opponent in the FBS era? Matt and Cody discuss these topics and more!
Show Notes:
- Was FAU Postponement a Positive or Negative?
- Campbell Looked Like an Inferior FCS Team Against Coastal
- Louisiana Struggled with GagSt: Do We Have a Chance?
- Keys to a Victory Against the Ragin' Cajuns
- We Must Maintain Intensity for 60 Minutes
The Georgia Southern game against Florida Atlantic has been postponed after a slew of positive COVID-19 tests from players and coaches within the FAU program. Shane Marinelli, FAU insider and host of Inside the Burrow, joins Matt to shed some light on the situation and discuss why the game was postponed less than 30 hours before kickoff. The Eagles now look ahead to opening Sun Belt play on the road against reigning West Division champs Louisiana Sept. 26.
Show Notes:
- Welcome FAU Insider Shane Marinelli to the Show
- Why Did FAU Continue on After a Dozen Positive Tests?
- Was Going Back the Practice Wednesday the Right Move?
- It's Becoming Increasingly Difficult to Play Games
- Game Tentatively Scheduled for Dec. 5: Will It Happen?
- Looking Ahead to Louisiana
So the Campbell game didn't go as planned for several reasons, but we escaped with a win. Now Georgia Southern prepares for a much tougher opponent in 2019 C-USA champion Florida Atlantic. How many of the 33 inactive players from the Campbell game will be back? How will we bounce back and respond after a lackluster showing against an FCS team? Matt and Cody try to make sense of a disappointing Week 1 and look ahead to our matchup with FAU.
Show Notes:
- Disappointing Showing Against Campbell
- Unanswered Questions About COVID Contact Tracing
- Did the Players Know So Many Wouldn't Play?
- Defensive Backfield Looked Lost All Game
- Grading the Offense in Week 1 After More Passing
- Previewing FAU with a New Coach and QB
It’s FINALLY game week! After what has been a turbulent and uncertain offseason, Georgia Southern is set to play its first actual football game in a matter of a few days! Matt and Cody preview the newly revamped 2020 season and Georgia Southern’s opener against the Campbell University Fighting Camels.
Show Notes:
- Scheduling Changes: BIG TIME Exposure Ahead
- Season Outlook: How Will the Season Play out?
- Measure of Success for 2020 Schedule
- It’s a Trap! GS Has Several Trap Games
- Previewing the Campbell Camels
It's time to preview the Georgia Southern offense! The Eagles successfully navigated their first COVID outbreak and is set to face Campbell Sept. 12. In our second season preview episode, Matt and Cody break down the offense, including a loaded backfield and a healthy and experienced offensive line.
Show Notes:
- First COVID Outbreak Among Football Program
- Protest to Raise Awareness of Racial Injustice
- How Will We Balance Wright, King and Kennedy in the Backfield?
- Is This the Year We Evolve Our Passing Game?
- Tight End Play Should Improve Under Ruse
- Offense Line Unit Healthy, Experienced and Talented
- Overall Outlook About Georgia Southern's Offense
We're inching closer to the 2020 season, folks, and that means one thing: It's time to kick off our preview episodes! After discussing the latest happenings of the state of college football in a global pandemic, Matt and Cody break down the Georgia Southern defense and special teams unit.
Show Notes:
- Georgia Southern Announces 25% Capacity at Paulson
- Other Notable Policies: Yes Tailgating, No Freedom's Flight or Eagle Walk
- Triple Option Season Ticket Plans
- Benko Press Conference and Details of Army Game
- Special Teams Preview: Life Without Tyler Bass
- Defensive Preview: Front Seven Are SOLID
- A Moment of Perspective
So much has changed in just a week and a half. Georgia Southern has gone from a 10-game schedule to an 11-game schedule with the addition of Army on Nov. 21. FBS football now consists of six conferences — three from the Power 5 and three from the Group of 5. Matt and Cody discuss the season as it stands, the debate on whether a season should take place and why it could be a special season for Georgia Southern if games are played.
Show Notes:
- Georgia Southern Adds Army for Nov. 21 Game
- 11-Game Season and Opener Against Campbell Likely
- Conflicting Info: Experts Disagree on Safety of College Football
- NCAA Proposed Eligibility Changes and Potential Impact
- Should Be a Fun Year for Georgia Southern If Season Happens
- Expanded Passing Game: Could We See It Against Campbell?
After a longer than usual summer hiatus, we're back! Did we miss anything??? We'll recap the recent schedule changes for Georgia Southern's 2020 football season, including the season opener at Boise State being canceled. We'll also look at possible replacements for those games and discuss what the 2020 season may have in store as the country continues to battle the COVID-19 pandemic.
Show Notes:
- We're Finally Back: What Took Us So Long?
- Bye Bye Boise State
- Impact of Losing the Ole Miss Game
- Georgia Southern Well-Conditioned for Adversity
- Positive Tests Will Happen; How Will Outbreaks Be Managed?
- Outlook of 2020 Season in Shadow of a Pandemic
- Campbell Game: Should It Happen?
Before all of the coronavirus craziness shut everything down, we recorded an episode about the new athletic director at Georgia Southern. Find out what we think Jared Benko will bring to the position and hear our wish list for the new AD of our Eagles. While we won't have a spring game to talk about, tune in next time for Part 2 of our Season 3 premiere, where we break down the 2020 schedule.
Show Notes:
- A Master with Budgets: Just What We Need
- Top Priority Is to Grow Budget
- Experience with Football and Signature Hires
- A Who's Who of GS Greats at Presser
- Wish List for Jared Benko: New Facilities, P5 in Paulson and More Money
GATA Talk is back for Season 3. As usual, we jumped the gun on recording, so Part 1 of of our two-part season preview doesn't mention the fact that Georgia Southern has a new athletic director in Jared Benko. We'll cover that exciting news in a bonus episode soon, but in our season premiere we discuss the hiring of Doug Ruse as our tight ends coach, recap the 2019 season and break down the recruiting period, including snagging the nation's leading rusher in high school.
Show Notes:
- Doug Ruse Returns: More In Store Than Just TE Coach?
- Tying a Bow on 2019: Cure Bowl and the Season of Adversity
- Recruiting: O-line, QBs and the Nation's Leading Rusher
- Part 2 Coming Soon, Along with Jared Benko Bonus Episode
After recording our two-part season finale, Georgia Southern AD Tom Kleinlein decided to resign from his position to take an admin role at Ole Miss. Matt and Cody talk about what this means for the GS athletics department moving forward and who they would like to see take over as the new AD.
Show Notes:
- Opening Thoughts on TK Resignation
- How Will TK Be Remembered?
- AD Isn't Just About Football
- Qualities We Want in the Next AD
- Wish List for Next AD
For Part 2 of our Cure Bowl preview, we break down our matchup with the Liberty Flames. We discuss what it will take to win and how a victory sets a precedent for what's to come next season. Jon Manson, owner and operator of A Sea of Red joins us to talk about about Liberty and what to expect from the FBS independent Flames.
Show Notes:
- Cure Bowl Bid Not Surprising, Opponent Was
- Flames Haven't Been Tested Much This Season
- Liberty Has a QB Named Buckshot and an NFL-Quality WR
- How Will Liberty Defend the Option?
- A Win Could Set GS up for a Special 2020 Season
- Predictions: Georgia Southern vs. Liberty
- Interview with Jon Manson from A Sea of Red
Let's go bowling in Orlando! For the first part of our two-episode Cure Bowl preview, Matt gives his insight on what to see, where to eat and how to get around Orlando as Eagle Nation soars into Central Florida. This is a must-listen for anyone making the trip down to the Sunshine State. Part 2 of our preview will cover Georgia Southern's Cure Bowl matchup with the Liberty Flames.
Show Notes:
- Orlando Is Spread Out: Universal vs. Downtown
- Beware of I-4 Construction, Heavy Traffic and Universal Parking Fees
- Where to Stay and How to Get Around
- Food Guide: Where to Eat Downtown and in Area Neighborhoods
- Things to Do Outside of the Theme Parks
- Gameday Central: Transit and Parking Options
- Best Bars: Top Picks Downtown and Elsewhere
Georgia Southern finished the regular season 7-5 after beating that suitcase college from Atlanta for the first time in the friendly confines of Paulson Stadium. Now, it's on to one more game just one more time in 2019 — we just don't know where yet (at least at the time of this recording). Reflect on the season that was with Matt and Cody, hear their thoughts on how seven wins stacks up with everything this program has faced, and listen to their wish list and predictions of bowl destinations in this regular season finale of GATA Talk.
Show Notes:
- Evening the Series with Atlanta Commuter College Tech - About Time
- Dan Ellington Is a Warrior Playing on a Torn ACL
- JD King Had Himself a Day
- Defense Showed up and Showed out
- The Attendance Was Accurate, and the Crowd Was Fantastic
- Reflections on the Regular Season: 7-5 Remarkable with All the Adversity
- Bowl Matchup: Wish List and Projections
Georgia Southern looks to get its seventh win on the 2019 season and go 2-0 in rivalry games this year by beating that suitcase college from Atlanta this Saturday. The Eagles will honor 17 seniors this weekend for their final home game in Paulson Stadium. Matt and Cody discuss why things look promising to get a victory against the Georgia Perimeter Kitty Cats and enter the bowl season on winning note.
Show Notes:
- Plenty to Still Play for This Saturday
- Werts Showcased His Toughness Against StAte.
- Ark State Outcome May Have Been Different with J.D. King
- Playing with the "Scout Team" O-Line
- What Coach Elliott Is Doing to Ellington Is Borderline Criminal
- Key to Victory: Get a Pass Rush and Keep Them Guessing
- Predictions: Georgia Southern vs. GagSt
Georgia Southern rebounded from its letdown against Troy to beat ULM 51-29 last week in dominate fashion at a rainy and cold Paulson Stadium. The Eagles now head to Jonesboro, Arkansas, where they hope to better their bowl game positioning and hold on to the hope of a Sun Belt East division title. To do so, they'll have to have an answer for the Red Wolves' explosive passing attack, led by Omar Bayless, one of the nation's best receivers.
Show Notes:
- Winning in All Three Phases
- Beck Is Unsung Hero of Special Teams
- JD King Becoming Workhorse of the Offense
- Werts Managed the Game Well
- Keys to a Win Over Arkansas State
- Vildor or Brinson vs. Omar Bayless?
- Defense Must Play Aggressive Against Hatcher
- Predictions: Georgia Southern at Arkansas State
How will Georgia Southern respond after losing big against Troy and hurting their chances at a East Division crown and a spot in the Sun Belt Championship? Matt and Cody discuss what happened with a deja vu moment that was reminiscent of the ULM loss last year after knocking off a ranked App State team. Now, the Eagles are back home in the comfort of Paulson Stadium to face the Warhawks from Monroe, Louisiana. Can they get revenge, become bowl eligible and right the ship with a glimmer of hope at a division title?
Show Notes:
- Troy Loss Falls on Coaching
- Defense Not Ready for the Hurry Up
- Offense Abandoned the Run Too Early
- Both Lines Have to Play Better to Beat ULM
- Stopping ULM Lies in Stopping Caleb Evans
- How Will the O-Line Hold up Without Dowdell?
- Bring on the Rain!
- Predictions: Georgia Southern vs. ULM
It is well with our souls! Georgia Southern is in the driver seat now for the East Division and a shot at the Sun Belt championship after a 24-21 win over App State last week. Matt and Cody recap the first victory in Boone since they were students back in 2007 and describe what they think is the blueprint for winning out and taking the Sun Belt crown. They also preview the most important game of the season — the next one — as the Eagles head to Troy, Alabama, to face the struggling Trojans.
Show Notes:
- Blueprint for Winning: The Antithesis of the Sun Belt
- Wesley Kennedy III Continues to Shine
- Start the Petition: We Should Only Play in Bad Weather Moving Forward :)
- Eagles Don't Beat Eagles: Will Get Tougher as Target Is on Our Backs
- Troy Kicks off Four-Game Stretch Against Prolific Offenses
- Predictions: Georgia Southern vs. Troy
It's App State Hate Week! Enough said. Georgia Southern heads to Boone to take on the No. 20 Mountaineers on Halloween night. Our Eagles are on a three-game winning streak after dominating New Mexico State in a rainy Paulson Stadium. Oh, and it looks like we may have our third-straight game in inclement weather. Hear why Matt and Cody thinks we may have a recipe for a huge upset over another ranked App State team.
Show Notes:
- New Mexico State Recap
- Wesley Kennedy III Will Be the Best Player on the Field in Boone
- Recipe for an Upset: Signs Point in Our Favor
- Predictions: Georgia Southern at App State
We bring this episode of GATA Talk to you with a heavy heart. After recording, we found out that freshman offensive lineman Jordan Wiggins died Monday, Oct. 21. This episode is dedicated to you, Jordan. Reeling from the loss of one of their brothers, the Eagles prepare to face the winless Aggies of New Mexico State for homecoming. Matt and Cody recap another close victory that puts us in the hunt for a Sun Belt championship and discuss what it will take to get more Ws against tougher conference opponents in the second half of the season.
Show Notes:
- Tribute to Jordan Wiggins
- Another OT Victory: What Will It Take to Start Pulling Away?
- Is the GS Offense Too Predictable?
- Mo Bamba Penalty and Other Terrible Calls
- Is Coastal Carolina Becoming a Rivalry Game?
- Looking for a Statement Win Over the Winless Aggies
- Predictions: Georgia Southern vs. New Mexico State
We are back with a BIG announcement. GATA Talk has entered a partnership with Eagle Sports Insider, the Georgia Southern affiliate for 247Sports! You'll now be able to find our latest episodes on ESI as well at GATATalk.com and anywhere you listen to podcasts. We'll also be providing some unique content to ESI and facilitating some conversations on their forums. Justin Judy, the head man at ESI, will join the podcast periodically to discuss recruiting news and trends. Oh yeah, we're also previewing a huge home game against Coastal Carolina. Buckle up!
Show Notes:
- Announcing a Partnership with 247 Sports and Eagle Sports Insider
- A Look at Georgia Southern's Top Commits for 2020
- Logan Wright Injury: What It Means for the Backfield
- Trouble Up Front: Offensive Line Woes Continue
- Can Shai and Kennedy Get the Offense Moving?
- The Need for Scoring More than 30 Points Per Game
- Can the Defense Have Another Strong Showing?
- Predictions: Georgia Southern vs The Angry Chickens
The season hasn't gone the way anyone wanted, but there's still a lot to play for. Matt and Cody address the 1-3 start and why it's too early to hit the panic button or throw in the towel. They also preview the matchup with South Alabama on a short week and what needs to happen to right the ship against a Jaguars team on a nationally televised Thursday night game.
Show Notes:
- No Need for Panic: A Message to Eagle Nation
- Three Winnable Games Ahead
- Defense Has to Play Better
- Option Is Working, Just Need to Finish
- South Alabama Preview and Predictions
Bring on conference play! Following their bye week, Georgia Southern hosts Louisiana to open Sun Belt Conference play this Saturday in the Prettiest Little Stadium in America. Matt and Cody break down keys to a big win, analyze our offensive struggles to this point and preview the Sun Belt as we enter Week 5 of the college football season.
Show Notes:
- Baby Watch 2019 (Update: Baby Girl Is Here and Healthy)
- Wesley Kennedy III's Appeal Not Approved, Will Sit Out Saturday
- Will Shai Werts Be Back and in Full Form?
- Tale of Two Offenses
- How Does Our Defense Stack up to the Ragin' Cajuns' Potent Offense?
- Power of Paulson Will Be a Factor
- Sun Belt Recap and Preview
- Prediction Time!
Matt and Cody recap the heartbreaking loss to Minnesota in the Twin Cities. As the Eagles reset during their bye week, what did the guys see from the loss to the Golden Gophers that have them encouraged moving into conference play? And what areas still need to be addressed if the Eagles are to accomplish their goal of winning the Sun Belt?
Show Notes:
- Getting Out to a Fast Start
- Do We Feel Better About Our Ability to Compete on the Road?
- What Needs to Be Corrected Before Louisiana?
- How Much of a Drop Off Is There Between Tomlin and Werts?
- Defense Played Out of Their Minds, Despite Final Drive
- Reynard Ellis Is a Baller
- Was This Minnesota Game "Circled" at the Beginning of the Year?
Georgia Southern improved to 1-1 on the season with a 26-18 win over FCS foe Maine. While it might not have been the prettiest game, the guys break down the positives and negatives from the Eagles' first victory of the 2019 season. They also preview our second Power 5 opponent of the year as Georgia Southern heads up to Minneapolis and Saint Paul to take on the Golden Gophers of Minnesota.
Show Notes:
- Positives and Negatives from the Maine Win
- Justin Tomlin Showed Out: Will He Be the Starter at Minnesota?
- How Much of a Drop Off Is There Between Werts and Tomlin?
- Keys to Victory Against Minnesota
- Can the Eagles Play Better on the Road Against a Good Opponent?
- Predictions for Georgia Southern vs. Minnesota
Matt & Cody break down a tough loss to No. 6 LSU and what that may mean for the rest of the season. While the the record may be what most expected entering Week 2, the result certainly wasn't. What will it take for our Eagles to get back on track: A domination of FCS Maine.
Show Notes:
- LSU: What Went Wrong?
- GS is 1-14 on the Road Against Teams with Plus-.500 record
- Maine Preview
In our first game preview of the season, the guys break down the huge Week 1 matchup between Georgia Southern and No. 6 LSU. Topics include the role JD King will play now that he is eligible, how the Eagles' stacked secondary will stack up against LSU quarterback Joe Burrow and how the GS offensive line will hold up after losing Brian Miller for the season.
Show Notes:
- JD King Is Eligible: What Role Does He Play Against LSU?
- How Does the O-Line Hold up with Losing Brian Miller?
- Will the GS Offense Open up the Playbook Against the Tigers?
- How Will the GS Secondary Play Against Joe Burrow?
- LSU Has a Star Freshman RB: Can We Stop Him?
- Parallels to the Clemson Game
- Keys to a Gigantic Upset for Georgia Southern
Part 2 of GATA Talk's Georgia Southern football preview is here! In this episode, the guys break down what could be one of the best defenses in program history, along with a talented special teams unit. They also discuss the difficult 2019 schedule and what it will take to truly go from good to great in the second full season under Head Coach Chad Lunsford.
Show Notes:
- Outlook for Defense in Year 2 Under Scot Sloan
- Defensive Line: Can They Get to the QBs?
- Linebackers Are a More Experienced Group in 2019
- Are Brinson and Vildor the Best Cornerback Duo in the Nation?
- How Will Our Safeties Look After Losing Moon and Freeman?
- Tyler Bass Could Be the Best Kicker in College Football
- WKIII Returns to Lead the Return Game
- Can Punting Improve?
- What Defines Going from Good to Great in 2019?
The boys are back and finally talking exclusively about our Georgia Southern Eagles after what has been an extremely eventful fall camp. Matt and Cody break down the Shai Werts arrest and dropped charges, the Quan Griffin arrest, the JD King transfer appeal and break down the Georgia Southern offense in Part 1 of their 2019 GS football preview.
Show Notes:
-
PoopGate - Character of Werts on Display
- Quan Griffin's Time at GS Likely Done
- Why Is the JD King Decision Taking So Long?
- Will the Passing Game Evolve in Year Two Under Bob DeBesse
- Could This Be the Year of Shai Werts?
- Running Back Talent Is Rampant
- How Will WR Transfers Affect Depth?
- How Will Losses on O-Line Affect Production?
On our second episode, the guys break down the East division of the Sun Belt conference, including the coaching changes at App State and Troy and the importance of culture within a college football program.
Show Notes:
- Does Drinkwitz Have What It Takes for App to Repeat?
- What Will App State's Defense Be Like Under Ted Roof?
- Will Troy Keep Rolling Under Chip Lindsey?
- Can Coastal Carolina Turn the Corner and Make a Bowl?
- Tough Question: Who Will Win the East Division?
Let's kick the tires and light the fires. GATA Talk is back for Season 2! To kick off this season, Matt and Cody talk about the West division of the Sun Belt Conference.
Show Notes:
- Previews of ULL, Ark St., ULM, South Alabama & Texas State
- Who Will Win the West?
- Who Will Be the Surprise Team?
- Which Team Will Take a Step Back in 2019?
- Can the West Champion Take the Sun Belt Championship?
We're back, Eagle Nation! We took some time off to let the coaching carousel of the Sun Belt Conference play itself out. Now that the chips have fallen, Matt and Cody recap the memorable 2018 Georgia Southern football season, where it ranks in their time as fans and how the coaching changes in the conference may affect the Eagles.
Show Notes:
4:18 - Looking Back at 2018
21:48 - Favorite Moments from the 2018 Season
35:30 - Where Does This Season Rank in Recent GS History?
43:15 - Sun Belt Coaching Carousel and How It Affects Us
Eagle Nation is still celebrating a dramatic Camellia Bowl win as Georgia Southern completed its first 10-win season since becoming a member of the FBS with a 23-21 victory of Eastern Michigan. Savannah Morning News beat writer Travis Jaudon joins Matt and Cody to talk about the Camellia Bowl win, the legacy left by this senior class and what a 10-win season could mean for the 2019 recruiting class.
Show Notes:
2:23 - Shoutout to Eagle Nation Who Made Montgomery a Blast
4:30 - Talking Camellia Bowl with Travis Jaudon
19:58 - What the 10 Wins Mean for This Team and the Legacy of the Seniors
35:34 - Early Signing Period and What This Season Could Mean for the 2019 Class
Nick Burgess, the Georgia Southern beat writer for Forgotten5.com and EagleCreekChampagne.com joins the guys to talk about the Camellia Bowl matchup with Eastern Michigan. Matt and Cody also discuss the Swag Wagon (Lunsford bus) and the Cole Train (Cole Swindell bus) as well as what a 10th win would mean for the Eagles.
Show Notes:
4:00 - Forgotten5.com Writer Nick Burgess Talks Eastern Michigan with the Guys
39:40 - Matt and Cody make their predictions for the Camellia Bowl
Georgia Southern now knows its opponent for the 2018 Camellia Bowl, and it is...Eastern Michigan. Matt and Cody discuss the matchup and how the Sun Belt Conference coaches and media members snubbed Shai Werts, Monquavion Brinson, Wesley Kennedy and Head Coach Chad Lunsford in their selections for post-season awards. The guys also talk about the coaching carousel, including App State coach Scott Satterfield headed for Louisville and what that could mean for Georgia Southern recruiting and coaches.
Show Notes:
2:45 - Georgia Southern Got Shafted in the Sun Belt Awards
30:50 - Meet Our Bowl Opponent: Eastern Michigan
40:20 - Coaching Carousel: Could Scott Satterfield Go After Scot Sloan?
The regular season is over, but the Eagles are going bowling! It seems that Georgia Southern is headed for the Camellia Bowl in Montgomery, Alabama, on Dec 15, where they will likely face the loser of the MAC championship game. Matt and Cody discuss the Georgia State win, the season as a whole, the early recruiting period and, of course, the bowl game.
Show Notes:
5:30 - Georgia State Win: That Program Is Just Sad
33:25 - Bowl Game Picture Now Clear: Eagles to Montgomery, But Against Who?
55:58 - Recruiting and the Early Signing Period
The Eagles got back on the right track after a blowout win against Coastal Carolina. Now Georgia Southern will go for it's ninth win of the 2018 season as they head to that old baseball stadium in Atlanta to face rival Georgia State.
Show Notes:
3:38 - Coastal Carolina Recap: Sticking It to Jamey Chadwell
20:05 - Bring on the Kitty Cats of Georgia State
28:00 - Predictions and Reflecting on the Season
Georgia Southern has dropped consecutive games for the first time in the 2018 season. How do the Eagles respond. Despite an East Division title being and a Sun Belt championship being in reach, the Eagles still have a shot at a 9-3 regular season and possibly the program's first 10-win season since being members of FBS. Can they right the ship and get back on the winning track against Coastal Carolina?
Show Notes:
10:30 - Overcoming Adversity: Is the Team Lacking "Juice" on the Road?
25:25 - Bob DeBesse Is the Answer: Give It Time
38:30 - What Has Happened to the Defense the Past Two Games?
42:00 - Get the Ball to Our Playmakers!
57:53 - Coastal Carolina: A Team Not to Be Taken Lightly
1:15:40 - Matt and Cody's (Reluctant) Predictions
Well that one didn't go the way we planned. We break down that mind-boggling loss to ULM and whether we think Georgia Southern can refocus and bounce back at home in a huge matchup against East Division leader Troy.
Show Notes:
2:22 - Ugly Loss to ULM: How Does the Team Refocus?
7:44 - Could This ULM Game Be a Blessing in Disguise?
14:56 - Blaming Rankings and College Gameday Hype for Loss? That's Ridiculous
26:30 - Troy Preview: Will the Eagles Bounce Back?
33:04 - The "Real" Reason We Lost to ULM and Troy Predictions
Georgia Southern took down #25 Appalachian State 34-14 last week in what was the Eagles' biggest win of the season to this point. Now the team heads back on the road to face Louisiana Monroe, which sits tied with Louisiana Lafayette on top of the Sun Belt's West division. Can the Eagles remain focused and hungry and improve to 8-1 on the season? Matt and Cody discuss that and more in the latest edition of GATA Talk.
Show Notes:
1:27 - Down Goes App State: Turnovers, Penalties and a Needed Rivalry Win
24:58 - Rankings: Important for the Fans and Recruiting
31:33 - ULM Preview: Keys to Victory
38:34 - Predictions and Outlook for Rest of the Season
As Georgia Southern prepares to host #25 Appalachian State Thursday in the biggest Sun Belt matchup of the year so far, we're offering a look behind enemy lines. Matt welcomes in AJ and Big C, hosts of The Black & Gold Podcast, a fan podcast dedicated to all things App State sports.
Topics Covered:
-
Taylor Lamb graduated and App State might have improved at QB
-
Does being ranked help or hurt the Mountaineers as they head to Statesboro?
-
Will the Mountaineers be ready for the Power of Paulson?
-
Scott Sloan vs. App's offense: Who has the advantage?
-
What do you meme? Which fan base trolls better?
-
Favorite rivalry memories
-
AJ and Big C. weigh in on what it will take for an Eagles win
The Eagles are going bowling! But first, rival Appalachian State comes to town in what very well may be the battle for the Sun Belt's East Division, with the winner likely hosting the first ever Sun Belt Conference Championship. We recap the New Mexico State game, discuss what it will take to knock off #25 App State and talk about some of our favorite memories from the rivalry with the Mountaineers.
Show Notes:
2:00 - Offense Shows Up in Las Cruces
8:41 - Defense's Slow Start Against New Mexico State
16:15 - App State Preview: Keys to an Eagles Win
29:19 - Favorite Memories from App State Rivalry
35:00 - Going Bowling: Desirable Bowl Destinations
44:12 - Predictions for App State Game
It wasn't pretty, but a win is a win. Matt and Cody discuss the ugly win against Texas State and what it may mean for the rest of the season. Is this a Jekyll and Hyde team at home and on the road or is the game in San Marcos an outlier? The guys also give their grades for a midseason report card for offense, defense and special teams as well as preview another long road trip to New Mexico State.
Show Notes:
1:59 - Texas State Scare - Cause for Concern?
24:11 - Midseason Report Card - Special Teams, Defense and Offense
37:04 - New Mexico State Preview
42:54 - Predictions and App State Teaser
Georgia Southern improved to 4-1 on the season and 2-0 in Sun Belt Conference play with a 48-13 win over South Alabama. The Eagles now take to the road for just the second time this season as they head to San Marcos, Texas, for a quick-turnaround Thursday night game against Texas State. Matt and Cody talk about how season expectations have now changed and discuss what it will take to come out of this two-game road stretch bowl eligible at 6-1.
Show Notes:
2:40 - South Alabama Recap - Eagles Keep Rolling
20:43 - Texas State Preview - How Will the Road Trip Affect the Eagles?
26:38 - How Have Expectations Changed?
31:06 - Predictions for Texas State
Georgia Southern is coming off its biggest win of the 2018 season with a 28-21 victory over preseason Sun Belt Conference favorite Arkansas State. Matt and Cody discuss the tenacity of the team, the great reverse call from Bob DeBesse and what this win means for Georgia Southern moving forward. They also discuss the upcoming South Alabama game and what it will take to come away with the Eagles' fourth win of the season Saturday at Paulson Stadium. The guys also talk about the great gameday festivities for Military Appreciation Day and the questionable officiating in the Arkansas State game.
Show Notes:
2:15 - Arkansas State Analysis - Offense and Defense
20:42 - Penalties and Officiating
25:14 - Attendance Was Just 17,320?
27:39 - Military Appreciation Day, Southern Pride and the C-130
34:10 - South Alabama Preview - GS Defense vs. South Alabama Offense
40:53 - How Will Georgia Southern's Offense Fare Against the Jaguars?
44:00 - Close and Predictions
Following their bye week, Georgia Southern opens conference play against Arkansas State Saturday. We preview that game, look at the positives from the Clemson loss and preview the Sun Belt, including where the Eagles may fit into the conference picture.
Show Notes:
2:19 - Clemson Recap and Analysis
10:54 - Sun Belt Conference Preview
20:19 - Where Does Georgia Southern Fit in the Sun Belt Outlook?
27:39 - Arkansas State Preview
41:50 - #TicketGate and Gnats Landing Controversy
Just two games into the 2018 season, the Georgia Southern football team has matched its win total from 2017. Cody and Matt recap that impressive 34-13 win against UMass and preview the toughest test of the season as the Eagles head to South Carolina to face No. 2 Clemson.
Show Notes:
0:19 - Starting Off 2-0 and...DOO-Kane???
11:52 - Possible Question Marks and Concerns Moving Forward
2:17 - UMASS Recap & Analysis
20:29 - Clemson Preiview: What It Will Take to Win
35:12 - Sun Belt Preview Teaser
The 2018 Georgia Southern football season is off to a winning start as the Eagles beat South Carolina State 37-6 in the home opener. Matt and Cody discuss the promising moments from that game as well as some question marks moving forward as they preview a huge Week 2 matchup against UMASS.
Show Notes:
1:52 - South Carolina State Recap and Positives
11:52 - Possible Question Marks and Concerns Moving Forward
27:28 - UMASS Preview
38:53 - Prediction Time!
44:45 - Clemson Preview Is on Deck
It's officially game week Eagle Nation! Find out our thoughts on the 2018 season, how the Sun Belt conference may shake out with the new divisions and championship game, and what it will take for Georgia Southern to have a successful season. Oh, and we'll make a prediction or two. Get ready for kickoff with our final episode from the preseason. Hail Southern!
Show Notes:
1:10 - Are High Expectations Warranted?
3:52 - Analyzing the 2018 Georgia Southern Schedule
6:04 - Sun Belt Conference Outlook
10:05 - Georgia Southern Season Outlook
25:05 - Triple Option - Wins Against Rivals, Finish in Division and Total Wins
32:09 - South Carolina State Preview
42:06 - Eagle Elbows and Lunsford Energy
All eyes will be on the Georgia Southern offense this fall to see how the Eagles will look under new offensive coordinator Bob DeBesse. Find out what Matt and Cody expect out of redshirt-sophomore quarterback Shai Werts, how the offensive line is coming together and what playmakers to look out for under the Eagles' revitalized option attack.
Show Notes:
0:35 - Condolences to Werts Family
1:58 - Look Back at 2017 Offense and Hire of Bob DeBesse
6:50 - Quarterbacks
10:05 - Offensive Line
13:04 - Running Backs
20:01 - Wideout and Slot Receivers
25:44 - Tight Ends
29:29 - Over or Under?
32:28 - Close and Season Preview Tease
How will the Georiga Southern defense adapt to the new 3-4 scheme under new defensive coordinator Scot Sloan? Who will replace Matt Flynn as the Eagles' punter? Who will be returning kicks and punts this year for the Eagles? All this and more in our Special Teams and Defensive Preview.
Show Notes:
0:20 - Intro and Thank You
2:40 - Special Teams Preview
11:51 - Defensive Preview
20:23 - Thanks (Again) and Offensive Preview Tease
For our first episode, we'll take a look back at the 2017 season, the eventful offseason and what Eagle Nation might have in store in the inaugural year of the Chad Lundsford era.
Show Notes:
0:57 - Intro
4:19 - Coaching hires
13:18 - 2018 Recruiting Class
17:36 - 2018 Spring Game
21:34 - Looking Ahead to Defense and Special Teams Preview