The Sun Belt was once considered to be perhaps the premium Group of 6 conference, regularly seeing its teams play up against strong competition and often putting scares into SEC, Big Ten and ACC foes.
Securing a College Football Playoff bid last season was due in part to the league's effort to acquire and retain strong football programs, but the conference hasn't been immune to its talent being poached.
In addition to a plethora of players who have left for the Power 4, coaches and coordinator changes have generated a shake-up in the Sun Belt, creating parity at the top and underlying value in the betting markets in the mid-tier.
Keeping divisions makes this conference unique and keeps more teams in the conference race later in the season than any other conference.
Every game in league play truly matters in the divisional format, and one slip-up can cost teams a chance at competing for a conference title and possibly more.
There's no room for error in this highly competitive league; that's why it's called the Fun Belt!
With that said, let's dive into our 2026 Sun Belt picks and college football preview for the upcoming NCAAF season.
2026 Sun Belt Odds
| Team | Odds |
|---|---|
| James Madison | +270 |
| Old Dominion | +460 |
| Louisiana | +700 |
| Troy | +800 |
| Marshall | +900 |
| Louisiana Tech | +1000 |
| Arkansas State | +1150 |
| South Alabama | +1500 |
| Appalachian State | +1800 |
| Georgia Southern | +2600 |
| Coastal Carolina | +4500 |
| Southern Miss | +6000 |
| ULM | +10000 |
| Georgia State | +15000 |
All odds via DraftKings as of Monday, Aug 3.
Pick to Win Sun Belt: Louisiana
I firmly believe that unlocking who's going to win the West Division creates value in the betting market for Sun Belt futures.
While there's a bit of congestion at the top of the West standings, there are a few things that set Louisiana apart as my favorite contender in that division.
The Ragin' Cajuns play my weakest Sun Belt schedule in 2026, drawing Coastal Carolina and Georgia State in their divisional crossover matchups. Plus, the conference road slate is a complete gift.
Louisiana could end up being favored in every conference road game, something no other team outside of James Madison will be able to say.
Catching Arkansas State, Troy and South Alabama at home are critical in the divisional race.
You could argue that a slight tweak in the Ragin' Cajuns' in-game management and play-calling would have led to as many as four additional wins last season. With a veteran offense coming back, I look for some of those issues to be resolved.
Injuries derailed this offensive line last season, so as long as they can avoid that once again, quarterback Lunch Winfield should dazzle the Sun Belt West weekly.
The defense should also come around in the second year of the system, so I expect some improvement on that side of the ball as well.
I have Louisiana favored in nine games with a coin-flip in one other.
With JMU and Old Dominion expected to take steps back this year, I think the West Division winner can absolutely win the Sun Belt title. Louisiana is my pick to win the league this season.
Surprise Contender in Sun Belt: Marshall
One of the more underrated coaching jobs in the entire country last season was that of Tony Gibson with this Thundering Herd team.
The cupboards were bare, and expectations were low. While they finished just 5-7, the Herd were much more competitive than expected and could have very easily defeated Louisiana, Appalachian State and Georgia Southern.
After finally settling on Carlos Del Rio-Wilson at quarterback, the offense took off, scoring more points and maintaining more successful drives.
Marshall will be a bowl team this season, and I don't think the gap between the Herd and James Madison and Old Dominion is that wide.
The defense should force more pressure in the front seven this season, and the coverage unit will benefit tremendously from that.
Marshall will cut down on the number of explosive plays it allows this year and will field a better defensive unit. I think the Herd can win the East.
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The success of the James Madison program has been spearheaded by excellent coaching hires, and Billy Napier looks to rebound his career by being the next in succession following up on the job done by Curt Cignetti and, most recently, Bob Chesney.
Napier cut his teeth in the Sun Belt at Louisiana and should be able to find success with a proud JMU program despite how things went down at Florida.
The key this offseason was reloading after James Madison was gutted in the portal following its College Football Playoff appearance.
James Madison Offense
Both quarterbacks are gone, along with six of the top wide receivers and three producing running backs from last season.
The offensive line will undergo nearly a full rebuild. Only starting center Zach Greenberg returns, and transfers from Colorado, Army, D-III UW-River Falls and a pair of last year’s second squad return.
JC Evans, Arrington Maiden and Camden Coleman are locked in a quarterback battle that likely won't be settled until deep into fall camp.
The Dukes figure to lean heavily on running back George Pettaway, who ran for 980 yards in 2024 before battling injury last season.
The receiver group sees Corey Scott transfer in from West Florida after leading the Argonauts with 1,018 receiving yards last season, along with Jeremiah Harrison, who's an explosive receiver with big-play potential from East Tennessee State.
Cole Keller has excellent size at the tight end position and goes 6-foot-5 and 255 pounds. He'll be a matchup problem in this league. Brian Hnat is also another big body who can contribute when it comes to run blocking.
I wouldn't be surprised if JMU runs some double-tight 12 personnel sets out of the gun like Napier used to run at Louisiana.
James Madison Defense
The defensive line will be anchored by 6-foot-3, 317-pound Kells Bush along with Rasheed Lovelace, who comes in from Nicholls. Edge Amar Thomas recorded 43 tackles last season and was on the cusp of being an all-conference selection.
The linebackers have some decent speed but are transfer-reliant, with three in the two-deep coming in from other schools.
The secondary will also have to gel together quickly. While the turnover rate was high and the completion percentage allowed was low, the unit was aided by a strong pass rush that registered 36 sacks.
JMU gave up 15 pass plays of 40 yards or more last season and could be susceptible to surrendering the big play again this year.
The Dukes have a reliable kicker and punter returning but will need a return specialist to emerge if this group wants to have a standout special teams group this season. Still, an upper-tier Sun Belt unit is expected.
James Madison Schedule Analysis
JMU has four winnable games in nonconference play, but they're not sure-fire wins.
Hosting Liberty in a major G6 clash in Week 1 will set the tone before a weak FCS team comes in. A tough road trip to San Diego State is a likely fade spot before the massive road showdown with Old Dominion.
The Dukes' SBC East fate could very well be decided after a home bout with Marshall. A sweep in those two games will give JMU a firm hold on the division, but going 0-2 would all but eliminate the Dukes.
James Madison will be a near double-digit favorite the rest of the way, including a late-season nonconference road trip to UConn before finishing up against Coastal Carolina at home.
The bye week is ill-timed in Week 12, but the schedule draw is decent. A nine-win season isn't out of the question.
JMU is a deserved favorite in the Sun Belt this year despite having more questions than normal.
Spots to Play James Madison
- vs. Georgia State
- vs. Troy
- vs. Coastal Carolina
Spots to Fade James Madison
- @ San Diego State
- @ Georgia Southern
- @ Appalachian State
James Madison Players to Watch
- RB George Pettaway
- WR Corey Scott
- WR Jeremiah Harrison
- DL Kells Bush
- LB Gannon Weathersby
Pick: Pass
Ricky Rahne has done an excellent job stabilizing the Old Dominion program after a 1-11 season in 2019 followed by a lost COVID year in which the Monarchs didn't play football.
The transition to the Sun Belt has gone well, all things considered. After a breakout 2025 season that saw ODU win 10 games, retooling the roster and navigating a rebuilt offensive line will be critical to its success in 2026.
Old Dominion Offense
Zero career starts return along an offensive line that has a pair of linemen from last year’s second platoon elevating to the starting lineup.
Joining them will be former Elon starting center Brayden Walker and a pair of offensive tackles coming in from the JUCO ranks.
The top six pass-catchers are gone from last season, but 6-foot-5 Sidney Mbanasor and Mercer transfer Kendall Harris could be due for breakout seasons.
Shifty running back Devin Roche is back after running for 630 yards while splitting carries last season. He figures to get the bulk of the load at running back this season. Maurki James adds depth, and if one of the transfers pops, this room could feel really crowded.
The Monarchs should live in 12 personnel this season, using big-bodied tight ends Leon Haughton Jr. and Lonnie Johnson to support the run game and provide safety valves for quarterback Quinn Henicle.
The sophomore QB played some last season due to injury and mop-up duty. He has a similar skill set to his predecessor, Colton Joseph, who bolted for Wisconsin this offseason.
Henicle needs to develop rhythm and consistency as a passer, but he's all systems go as a running threat.
This offense should play a similar scheme as it did last year.
Old Dominion Defense
The defense has to make the hay this season, much like it did in the last six games of 2025. ODU was excellent down the stretch in the red zone, allowing just four red-zone touchdowns in 12 trips.
Retaining defensive coordinator Blake Seiler is the first big win for this defense.
Six starters also return, anchored by a stout front that brings back five defensive linemen who notched double-digit stops last season.
Linebacker Mario Thompson is back after garnering all-conference honors last season. With Thompson and Koa Naotala both returning, the linebacker group could mature into the best in the conference by season's end.
Old Dominion was elite in preventing explosive plays last season, but the secondary will likely take a step back with the departure of three starters from last year's back end.
Zion Frink will likely anchor the unit, and his physicality should help contain the opponent's No. 1 receiver. Safeties Daevon Iles and Ryan Ramey are a bit unproven but could round out nicely this season.
Old Dominion hasn't had great special teams, and it's unlikely that Roche returns punts this season as the team's starting running back.
Return specialists need to emerge, and with the Monarchs returning both kicker and punter, there could be incremental improvement here.
Old Dominion Schedule Analysis
The schedule affords ODU opportunities to make some noise regionally and nationally, but very little will come easy.
After the opener against Norfolk State (formerly a massive, long-standing FCS rivalry), a trip to Blacksburg gives the Monarchs another installment of what has become quite the rivalry between ODU and Virginia Tech.
Regional foe East Carolina comes to town next before a massive showdown with James Madison.
Following the bout with JMU, three of the next four come on the road. Trips to App State and Louisiana Tech could be tighter than expected.
After that stretch, Marshall comes to town in another highly anticipated game. Albeit on the road, ODU has winnable games against Coastal Carolina and UConn before concluding the season at home against Southern Miss.
Success hinges on the Week 4 matchup against JMU, as a loss could be fairly deflating.
I'll be watching closely to see how the offensive line develops and if Henicle blossoms into a polished passing quarterback. If both of those things happen, ODU is a legitimate contender in the Sun Belt East.
Spots to Play Old Dominion
- vs. Georgia Southern
- @ Louisiana Tech
- vs. Southern Miss
Spots to Fade Old Dominion
- @ Georgia State
- @ Coastal Carolina
Old Dominion Key Players to Watch
- QB Quinn Henicle
- RB Devin Roche
- LB Koa Naotala
- CB Zion Frink
Pick: Pass
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Louisiana was so much better than its 2025 record would suggest. Injuries, defensive suspensions and unsettled decisions at the quarterback position caused this group to be in flux all season.
Michael Desormeaux enters Year 5 looking to break concerning trends of mediocrity and poor handling of in-game situational coaching.
The 10-4 season in 2024 is looking more and more like an outlier after being sandwiched between three 6-7 campaigns, something Desormeaux is seeking to change the narrative on this year.
Louisiana had several chances to notch wins last year, including games against James Madison, Eastern Michigan, Rice and Troy. During critical junctures, coaching and play-calling decisions failed the Ragin’ Cajuns in 2025.
While the team and roster need to develop further, this coaching staff needs to level up or we could see more of the same for Louisiana in 2026.
Louisiana Offense
Lunch Winfield dazzled every week last year and has provided some clarity at the quarterback position. I expect another great year from him this fall.
The running back departures are noteworthy, but the Ragin' Cajuns brought Anthony Reagan Jr. in from Howard to compete with a pair of young guys for carries.
This should be a running back by committee situation, but with the added running element that Winfield provides, the ground attack could once again be potent.
Shelton Sampson Jr. was once regarded as one of the best receivers in the country coming out of high school, and he returns for Louisiana. KeDarius Wade, Landon Baptiste and Trenton Chaney have a chance to emerge and bolster the passing attack even further.
Ja'Corian Norris was an electric kick return specialist who's also switching from safety to wide receiver this year. I expect above-average SBC numbers.
The offensive line battled many injuries last season and had three starters suffer season-ending injuries after just three games.
Every lineman who played missed at least one game, leaving Louisiana to use 11 different starting combinations on the O-line last season, the most in the FBS.
A pair of starters are back at center and left guard, and both tackles have excellent size. This unit will, in all likelihood, stay healthier and should have more consistent play.
Louisiana Defense
The defense as a whole wasn't very good last season, but this unit also battled injuries and suspensions.
I like the size of the defensive tackles, Chase Edwards (6-foot-7, 300 pounds) and Fitzgerald West Jr. (6-foot-2, 300 pounds).
Louisiana also boasts a pair of edge rushers in Ashley Williams and Lance Williams who could have decent seasons. ULL really likes edge rusher Tito Chikere heading into fall camp as well.
The linebacker group is down after the departure of its top two from last season. This unit needs a leader to emerge in fall camp.
The secondary loses three starters from last season, but Avery Demery, Kody Jackson and Collin Jacob gained valuable experience last season playing with the second team last season. That could help the secondary could improve this season.
Overall, the unit is in decent shape.
The special teams units have been consistently solid here at Louisiana, and kicker Tony Sterner returns after hitting 20-of-28 field goals last year with a long of 55 yards. A new punter needs to emerge.
The return game was average, and it will most likely continue down that road.
Louisiana Schedule Analysis
Louisiana will have opportunities to get on a roll early with three winnable nonconference games against Lamar, UAB and Charlotte.
I also think the conference slate lines up well for the Ragin' Cajuns to make a run.
Louisiana plays my easiest Sun Belt schedule this season with a really favorable draw out of the East Division, plucking Coastal Carolina and Georgia State, the two projected bottom finishers in that division.
The road games are very manageable in league play with trips to Louisiana Tech, Southern Miss, ULM and Georgia State, while drawing Troy and Arkansas State at home.
Winning those home games will clear the runway, as Louisiana will be favored by nearly a touchdown in each of its last five games of the season.
This team is due to have a breakout season, and the schedule is conducive to racking up the wins regularly. A record of 9-3 isn't unrealistic if the coaching staff can better manage in-game situations and make better decisions in the heat of the moment.
With how the conference futures are priced, Louisiana is absolutely worth a futures play. It's Lunch time!
Spots to Play Louisiana
- vs. Lamar
- @ Louisiana Tech
- vs. South Alabama
- vs. Coastal Carolina
Spots to Fade Louisiana
- @ USC
- @ ULM
Louisiana Players to Watch
- QB Lunch Winfield
- WR Ja’Corian Norris
- WR Shelton Sampson Jr.
- CB Brent Gordon Jr.
- S Collin Jacob
Pick: Louisiana to Win Sun Belt (+700)
Troy was one of the luckiest teams in the Sun Belt last season while doubling as the most inconsistent performers of 2025 in this league.
The Trojans showed flashes of brilliance while putting a huge scare into Clemson on the road in Week 2, only to follow that up with a 112-yard performance at home against Memphis where the Trojans could barely achieve a first down.
Down 17-0 in the fourth quarter on the road against Buffalo, Troy scored three touchdowns in the second half of the fourth quarter, completely changing the season trajectory for both the Trojans and Bulls.
The road win over Buffalo was the first of three improbable wins, as the Trojans followed that up with an overtime win over South Alabama while also defeating Texas State in OT after they trailed, 28-7, following the first quarter.
The ability to win four games as an underdog allowed Troy to slip into the conference championship, where it competed brilliantly against dominant James Madison before falling just short but covering the monster 24.5-point spread.
The challenge this year for Troy will be keeping quarterback Goose Crowder upright and retooling the defense that was such a force in Sun Belt play over the last season.
Troy Offense
Goose is back, but his tenure in a Troy uniform has been plagued with injury.
The offensive line was such a liability last season after being hit hard by injuries. This line was one of the worst units in the country after paving the way for a rushing average of just 2.8 yards per carry while allowing 100 tackles for loss and a whopping 59 sacks.
Troy loses about half the platoon from last season, but injuries caused the Trojans to play 11 guys on the line. NO matter how it went, some decent pieces return.
The run game was weak last year, partially due to the sack numbers allowed, but a proven threat needs to emerge out of the backfield after Troy chose to go the JUCO route in acquiring running back talent.
The top six wide receivers also depart, and all of the combined returning and portal-added receivers have a total of 93 FBS yards from last year.
There's some potential with Noreel White and Howard Kinchen, and the slot guys always seem to produce here. However, none of these players are proven FBS talents. The skill positions are really boom-or-bust.
Troy brought in Adam Austin, who served as the offensive coordinator at Tarleton State last season. The Texans ran a variety of offensive sets the last several seasons with electric quarterback Victor Gabalis, but one of the staples was using very tight offensive line splits and operating a slow mesh RPO.
The quarterback had the freedom to give or pull the ball and throw out to the sidelines or down the seams, but the plays were very slow developing.
I just don’t know if Troy can hold up in the offensive trench enough for that type of scheme to work effectively. Something different will likely need to evolve from Austin’s offensive ideology.
Troy Defense
The defense was such a force for Troy last season. The front registered 37 sacks and 87 tackles for loss, while the stop unit forced 18 turnovers.
Seven producing defensive linemen from last season are gone, but Donnie Smith is a name to watch. Getting him back for another season was huge, as the first-team all-Sun Belt performer registered 11 sacks last year.
A pair of 300-pound defensive tackles are a bit unproven, but they have potential. Kavion Henderson could shine in the Sun Belt after playing sparingly at Arkansas.
The linebacker group will rely on transfers from Boston College and D-II Barton College, but Troy likely won't be as strong in the second level as it was last year.
The secondary loses three starters, and while Justin Powe (134 tackles in the last two years) returns, there are several pieces added from the JUCO ranks.
The cornerbacks have decent size, and the defensive scheme works, but I'm not sold that Troy will be as tough defensively as it was last season.
Troy Schedule Analysis
Troy should have opportunities in the nonconference portion of the schedule, as three very winnable games sandwich a road trip to Missouri. A home game against Southern Miss is also a great chance for Troy to start 4-1.
The conference home slate is a dream scenario, as Southern Miss, ULM, Louisiana Tech and Georgia Southern all come to Troy, where the Trojans will be touchdown favorites.
Tough road games at Louisiana, James Madison and Arkansas State will determine if Troy goes back to the Sun Belt Championship.
I think this team regresses slightly, but 6-6 appears to be the floor given the schedule.
Spots to Play Troy
- @ Utah State
- vs. Georgia Southern
- Over in Week 2 vs. FCS Alabama State
Spots to Fade Troy
- @ Missouri
- @ James Madison
- @ Louisiana
Troy Players to Watch
- QB Goose Crowder
- DE Donnie Smith
- LB Bryce Steele
- S Justin Powe
- WR Howard Kinchen
Pick: Pass
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The job Tony Gibson did at Marshall last year was nothing short of remarkable.
After getting blasted in the opener against Georgia (expected), the Thundering Herd stunningly lost at home to Missouri State after blowing a 20-7 lead, and it appeared the wheels were falling off the wagon quickly.
The Herd got back to 2-2 with wins over Eastern Kentucky and Middle Tennessee, but we still didn’t really know what this group was all about.
They blew another lead against Louisiana after leading by 17 points in the second half, but they rallied to defeat both Old Dominion and Texas State.
Marshall finished 5-7, just missing a bowl game, with four losses by five points or fewer. This should have been a bowl team last year.
Looking forward to 2026, there are pieces to work with. Gibson retained offensive coordinator Rod Smith, and Brad Lambert comes in to be the defensive coordinator, his third stint with Marshall over his 40-year coaching career.
Marshall Offense
The emergence of quarterback Carlos Del Rio-Wilson was critical to the success of the Marshall offense. He ended up leading the team in rushing yards and rushing touchdowns in addition to throwing for over 2,000 yards and 17 touchdowns.
Chris Culliver and Adrian Norton could have breakout seasons at receiver, and the running back room is also well equipped.
Jo’Shon Barbie is back, and a pair of Power 4 transfers could also receive carries for Marshall.
The skill-position rooms are likely underrated and not receiving the hype, but if you dive into the talent makeup of these groups, Marshall will have solid offensive production.
The offensive line has great size, and the Herd also brought in a pair of rotational players from West Virginia. Andrew Dudley needs to emerge and get comfortable commanding the offensive line at the line of scrimmage, as he will be a first-time starter at center.
Marshall Defense
To put it lightly, the defense stunk last year.
The Herd allowed 30.3 points and 411 yards per game, but they improved as the season progressed. The red-zone defense took a step forward over the last three weeks, and Marshall registered 29 sacks on the season while showing a formidable pass rush.
The defense allowed far too many explosive plays, ranking 122nd in my explosiveness surrendered metric.
Braydin Ward racked up five sacks last season, and Javae Gilmore was a consistent pest behind the line of scrimmage. Both return in 2026.
Cam Chmura and Mikailin Warren are back on the interior of the defensive line after running with the second team last season.
Josh Pierre-Louis is a guy who could have a breakout season in the secondary alongside Daytione Smith and Caleb Clark-Glover.
There are pieces to work with here, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see this defense improve some as the season progresses.
A new kicker and punter who have never played college football both enter on special teams for Marshall.
Xayvion Turner-Bradshaw is back in the return game after ranking 10th nationally with 510 kickoff return yards on 22.2 yards per return.
This is a below-average special teams unit with plenty of inexperience, but it could morph into a decent unit.
Marshall Schedule Analysis
I actually don’t hate the idea that Marshall can compete with Penn State in the season opener, but the Thundering Herd should win the next three games against Middle Tennessee, Missouri State and Gardner-Webb.
The conference season gets started with a bang, as the Herd visit James Madison a week after the Dukes play Old Dominion in a game with major conference implications.
Getting Coastal Carolina at home should put Marshall as a favorite of a touchdown or more. So, a 4-2 start is likely.
After the bye week, South Alabama comes in on a Tuesday, and then the Herd travel to Old Dominion on Halloween night with two extra days to prep.
Marshall catches Georgia Southern in an exquisite spot after GATA plays App State in the Deeper Than Hate rivalry.
The Thundering Herd should be decent-sized favorites in the final three games.
Marshall does draw ODU and JMU on the road and must split those two games in order to contend for the conference championship.
I think Marshall will continue its program momentum from last season, and I don’t think nine wins is off the table.
Spots to Play Marshall
- vs. Middle Tennessee
- vs. Gardner Webb
- @ Georgia Southern
Spots to Fade Marshall
- @ ULM
- vs. Coastal Carolina
Marshall Players to Watch
- WR Chris Culliver
- QB Carlos Del Rio-Wilson
- LB Javae Gilmore
- CB Josh Pierre-Louis
- DL Braydin Ward
Pick: Marshall Over 7.5 Wins (Lean · +105) · Marshall to Win Sun Belt (+900)
Louisiana Tech experienced some tension this offseason, as its conference affiliation was in limbo until deep into the summer. The Bulldogs ultimately moved from Conference USA to their new home in the Sun Belt.
The move provides more geographic travel opportunities and natural rivalries with the other Louisiana schools while mitigating travel to the wild places they were asked to go in CUSA (and the WAC before that).
Overall, this is a good move for the program — even if things don't go well this season.
Tech has been stuck in CUSA mediocrity for some time now, and despite last year’s 7-5 campaign, the Bulldogs feasted on some of the worst teams at the FBS level.
Wins over UTEP, New Mexico State, Sam Houston and Missouri State were nice, but it doesn’t add up to wins against the Sun Belt opponents they're slated to face this year.
Louisiana Tech Offense
Sonny Cumbie has never been able to get this passing offense to develop the way he did when he was an offensive coordinator, and I believe it's holding this team back.
His new OC hire, Nathan Young, has an offensive line background, which leads me to believe Tech will pound the rock this season.
Blake Baker and Trey Kukuk split time at quarterback last year, along with Evan Bullock, who departed after last year. There's a chance the two remaining signal callers split reps again.
The top three running backs depart, and three young, unproven backs are ready to call for carries alongside Jaden Miller, who comes over from NAIA Keiser. Needless to say, none of these guys are likely to be the next Kenneth Dixon donning Techster Blue.
Five of the top six wide receivers from last season depart, giving Jalen Mickens and Dedrick Latulas opportunities to blossom out of the slot.
Eli Finley is a great-sized tight end at 6-foot-6 and 246 pounds, and he should catch some passes for the Bulldogs this year.
The right side of the offensive line needs work, as last year's starting center, right guard and right tackle are all gone. Austin Ellis started one game at RG last year, and RT Troy Smith III hasn’t played hardly at all over the last three years.
Roy Brackins III will be elevated to the starting platoon after spending last season as the second-string center. Hayden Christman is a rock-solid blindside tackle who has great size and should contend for all-conference honors this year.
Louisiana Tech Defense
The LA Tech defense was so exquisite last season, but there are a great deal of missing pieces that need to be replaced. Eight of the top 10 tacklers depart. Yet, some pieces that remain.
Emmanuel Oguns could elevate his play after being named third-team All-CUSA last season. Alonzo Jackson Jr. could also generate more Havoc after another year of development.
The linebacker group will rely on Kolbe Fields and Zheric Hill, who were decent players last year, while hoping Ahkhari Johnson can emerge from the nickel position.
The secondary is a massive concern, though. Louisiana Tech loses all four starters from an elite unit that racked up 22 interceptions to rank second in all of FBS last season.
The returning talent will not match that of the four all-conference caliber players who lurked in the secondary in 2025. I fully expect the pass defense numbers to dip by a decent amount.
Special teams will also be an adventure after a pair of kickers combined to hit just 12-of-20 field goals with a couple of missed extra points.
Louisiana Tech also replaces its all-conference punter and a pair of return specialists. Latulas has some zip in the return game and could shine, as the Bulldogs usually field a great return game.
Louisiana Tech Schedule Analysis
There are no longer FBS bottom-feeders littering the schedule, which is downright nasty to start this season.
After what appears to be an easy FCS win over lowly Northwestern State, back-to-back road games at LSU and Baylor will find LA Tech as a three-score underdog.
Following that up with a home game against Army complicates things even further, and then conference play starts with SBC West Division co-favorite Louisiana.
Road games against ULM, South Alabama and Georgia Southern are winnable, but it's hard to expect too much success on the road from a team that's just 4-27 straight up away from home over the last five years.
A home date with Southern Miss should be a play-on spot for LA Tech, but conference games against Old Dominion, Troy and Arkansas State will test this team.
I don't trust this group to win on the road, where most of the winnable conference games take place.
Hosting Louisiana, Arkansas State and ODU gives the Bulldogs a chance to potentially pull an upset, but I project a 1-4 start to the season, meaning the goal will quickly shift from making noise in the SBC to just surviving and trying to make a bowl game.
I'm playing the win total under 6.5, which is available at DraftKings.
Spots to Play Louisiana Tech
- vs. Southern Miss
- vs. Arkansas State
Spots to Fade Louisiana Tech
- @ LSU
- @ Baylor
- vs. Army
- @ Troy
Louisiana Tech Players to Watch
- QB Blake Baker
- TE Eli Finley
- WR Jalen Mickens
- LB Kolbe Fields
- DL Emmanuel Oguns
Pick: Louisiana Tech Alt. Under 6.5 Wins (-166 · DraftKings)
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The results on the field for Arkansas State have at times defied logic. The Red Wolves have found themselves on the right side of 11 close wins over the last two seasons despite being significantly outgained and not benefiting from extreme turnover margin.
Head coach Butch Jones' teams have found a way to win, and the defense took significant strides last season by creating more Havoc and doubling its sack total from the previous season.
Breaking in a new offensive coordinator, settling the impending quarterback debate and reloading the defensive front will be critical in determining whether or not Arkansas State can get back to a familiar place at the top of the Sun Belt West standings.
Arkansas State Offense
Jones hired Garrett Altman to come in and run the offense. Altman served as the quarterbacks coach at Vanderbilt over the last two seasons, finding success with Diego Pavia, who took the college football world by storm during his time in Nashville.
Repeat success here will mean that either one of the two Vandy transfers, Drew Dickey or Jeremy St-Hilaire, or Texas transfer Trey Owens, flourishes in the new system.
There are big shoes left behind by Jaylen Raynor, but Owens has a lot of the physical tools and will benefit greatly from an experienced offensive line that returns four starters.
The newcomer is Manasse Itete, who transfers in after two seasons at Florida State.
Devin Spencer and Kenyon Clay are back in the running back room for Arkansas State. Both were productive last season, each running for over 500 yards.
Hunter Summers, Chauncy Cobb and Jaylen Bonelli give the Red Wolves nice receiving options, but it will be hard to replace the production from the program's all-time leading receiver, Corey Rucker.
It will also be interesting to see what the operating tempo looks like this year, as Altman’s Vandy teams operated at one of the slowest tempos in the entire country last season — a staunch contrast from what we're used to seeing in Jonesboro.
Arkansas State Defense
The Havoc created by Arkansas State last season was such a bright spot. The Red Wolves registered a whopping 39 sacks and 81 tackles for loss last season, far better numbers than they've put up in recent years.
Arkansas State does have to replace all four starters from last year’s starting defensive line, along with two backups.
Ryan Reese played a decent amount last year, and Elias Sherman was productive at Maine last season, registering 5.5 sacks. Sultan Badmus and Donquarius Parker transfer in after productive stops at Temple and North Carolina Central, respectively.
This unit is a work in progress.
The linebacker group brings in Robert Stevens III from Lafayette to compete for starting snaps with Nigel Nelson, who made 54 tackles last season. Joe Drew also played some last year and could elevate to a starting spot.
Five Hamilton was a really nice player at Kennesaw State and should start at the nickel position.
The secondary will be breaking in a pair of new cornerbacks in Noah Flores and Kyle Williams, but the safeties do return. AG McGhee and Brandon Barnes made a combined 151 tackles and were in on numerous pass breakups last season, and the Red Wolves also added Makai Shahid from Youngstown State.
Surprisingly to some, Arkansas State has exquisite special teams, something Jones has focused on during his tenure in Jonesboro.
Danny Vuckovic transferred in from Northern Illinois to take over the punting duties, and kicker Clune Van Andel returns after hitting 21-of-27 field goals with a long of 54.
Arkansas State Schedule Analysis
Arkansas State has a real “prove-it” game early in the season against regional rival Memphis in Week 1, followed by a home game against FCS West Georgia.
A trip to TCU is a tough spot in which Arkansas State likely falls short, but a home date with Kennesaw State is winnable. A 2-2 nonconference start is likely.
The Red Wolves play my second-easiest Sun Belt schedule this season, although conference play does get opened up with a critical road game at Louisiana, likely Ark State's toughest conference game all season.
Drawing Georgia State and Coastal Carolina out of the East is favorable, and the other road games (at Southern Miss, at Coastal, at Louisiana Tech) are all winnable.
The Red Wolves have gone just 9-27 straight up on the road over the last six years, but this team could be favored in as many as eight games overall. If they pull a road upset over Louisiana, they'll contend for the Sun Belt West title.
Spots to Play Arkansas State
- vs. Kennesaw State
- vs. ULM
- @ Louisiana Tech
Spots to Fade Arkansas State
- @ Louisiana
- @ Southern Miss
Arkansas State Players to Watch
- QB Trey Owens
- WR Chauncy Cobb
- RB Devin Spencer
- DE Sultan Badmus
- S Five Hamilton
Pick: Pass
Head coach Major Applewhite is really at a crossroads heading into Year 3 in Mobile. South Alabama has shown little to no improvement during his tenure, as the Jaguars' regular-season record has gotten worse with each season.
The offense had its worst output in yards and points per game since before Kane Wommack’s first season with South Alabama, and the defense allowed more than 30 points per game for the first time since 2019 while recording just 12 sacks.
I really worry about the roster that has been assembled, and the inability to close out games remains a concerning trend.
South Alabama Offense
The offense is going to be led by quarterback Bishop Davenport, who threw for 2,072 yards with 12 touchdowns last season while adding in 507 rushing yards before accounting for sacks.
Davenport has dual-threat capabilities and can evade pressure while also making smart decisions with the football.
There are some key losses in the skill-position rooms. Once again this season, South Alabama will have to hit home runs via the transfer portal, or this offensive slide could continue.
Keenan Phillips returns at running back after splitting carries with Kentrel Bullock last season. Bullock departs, and Trae’von Dunbar joined from West Virginia.
The top two wide receivers depart, along with two productive tight ends. Receivers Micah Woods and Brendan Jenkins could emerge alongside Anthony Eager, who's coming off an injury but should be fully healthy in time for fall camp.
There's not a ton to be overly excited about in the receiver room, but playmakers have exploded onto the scene in the past. I wouldn’t be stunned if South Alabama fielded another pair of productive receivers.
The offensive line saw four consistent starters from last season depart, but Kenton Jerido and Ethan Hubbard are back. The Jags also add in Shalik Hubbard, who started for two seasons at Monmouth.
Getting redshirt freshman center Devin White comfortable will be key for this offensive line. This unit, in all likelihood, will end up being a mediocre Sun Belt offensive line.
South Alabama Defense
The defense has taken a slide over the last couple of seasons and has now called upon Todd Orlando to try to correct it.
Orlando hasn't been considered a high-achieving defensive coordinator, and with South Alabama losing nine of its top 11 tacklers from last season, there's work to do.
The defensive line struggled last year. South Alabama was regularly shredded on the ground, recording just 46 tackles for loss and nine sacks against FBS competition.
Three starters return, headlined by Emmanuel Waller and Tirrell Johnson, who both played significant snaps last season. However, the defensive line interior is inexperienced, and I expect the rushing defense to suffer.
The linebacker unit is replacing both starters from last season and will call upon Parker Shattuck and Caleb Dozier to elevate to the starting group.
Seidrion Langston comes over from ULM, and Damyrion Darby played a decent amount at the nickel position last year and could take a step forward in 2026.
The secondary sees three starters depart, but Jayvon Henderson is back after starting all 12 games last season. He'll play alongside Tre Webb, who comes in via JUCO.
DJ Moore transfers in at safety after playing sporadically at Georgia Tech last year. The pass defense will not be a strength this year.
Special teams was a strength during the Wommack era but has fallen off significantly over the last couple of seasons.
The kicking operation will be breaking in a new kicker, as Davis Little figures to win the job.
Meanwhile, punter Aleksi Pulkkinen hopes to rebound from a rough year last year, which saw his net aggregate punting average drop by five yards compared to 2024.
Devin Voisin was a solid return specialist but is out of eligibility, so a new weapon will need to emerge in fall camp.
South Alabama Schedule Analysis
The schedule in the nonconference is fairly straightforward. South Alabama will need to defeat Ohio at home to ensure a 2-2 start, as road games at Tulane and Kentucky likely mean the Jaguars will be multi-score underdogs.
After a winnable conference opener at home against ULM, two back-to-back road games against Arkansas State and Marshall provide tough challenges in which South Alabama will likely be an underdog of a touchdown or more.
Newcomer Louisiana Tech comes in before another tough road game at Louisiana. There's a real chance the Jaguars go 0-4 in that stretch.
The last three games are winnable, hosting Troy and App State, which sandwich a road game at Southern Miss. South Alabama will likely need to sweep all three of those matchups to go to a bowl game this year.
Spots to Play South Alabama
- vs. Ohio
- vs. ULM
Spots to Fade South Alabama
- @ Kentucky
- @ Marshall
- @ Louisiana
South Alabama Players to Watch
- QB Bishop Davenport
- WR Anthony Eager
- RB Keenan Phillips
- DL Emmanuel Waller
- S Jayvon Henderson
- LB Caleb Dozier
Pick: Pass
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App State was up and down last season in Year 1 of the Dowell Loggains era, as the offense posted its worst rushing output of the decade and consistent quarterback play never developed.
Losing once to rival Georgia Southern in the Deeper Than Hate rivalry is bad enough, but after App State received a late bowl invite at 5-7, another loss to the Eagles ended the disappointing season at 5-8.
I have serious question marks about the direction and identity of this program.
Appalachian State Offense
Appalachian State built its FBS rise around strong running games, elite wide receiver play and smart, reliable quarterbacks. The Mountaineers didn't receive any of that in 2025.
App State couldn’t break 200 rushing yards against any FBS opponents, while four quarterbacks rotated through the starting lineup and played mostly inconsistently.
Fall camp begins with a quarterback battle, as Malachi Singleton transfers in from Purdue, Henry Hasselbeck arrives from UCLA and Tommy Ulatowski comes in from Kennesaw State.
The running backs have to be better, and Ja’Quez Cross has an opportunity to tear up the Sun Belt like he did for two years at Arkansas State, where he ran for 1,437 yards.
Jaquari Lewis was effective in Boone last year and should split carries. A potential running threat from the QB position might also add a boost to the rushing production.
Wide receiver Chris Lofton transfers in from Gardner-Webb, where he averaged 16.6 yards per reception. Eight other transfers are vying for snaps in the two-deep.
The offensive line has two starters back, and App State added five transfers this offseason.
Right tackle Tyriq Poindexter had one start with the Mountaineers after transferring in from VMI, but was then out for the season. Devon Manuel comes in after playing sporadically for a couple of seasons in the SEC.
Both starting guards from 2025 return, and last year’s second-team center, Lance Williams, has been elevated to a starting position.
Appalachian State Defense
The defense returns two starters from a unit that struggled to register stops on third down while allowing 29.8 points per game.
Thirteen of the top 16 tacklers are gone, and there are holes at all three levels.
Aiden Benton should anchor the defensive line, and Colton Phares was a solid second-team All-Sun Belt selection at linebacker last year.
The secondary has to replace all four starters, as transfers from Charlotte, Liberty, UCF and Dayton look to round out the starting lineup.
Special teams-wise, App State is breaking in a new kicker and punter. New return specialists also need to emerge after the departure of Jaden Barnes. These units are likely to be less productive this season.
Appalachian State Schedule Analysis
While I lean under the win total, this schedule is forgiving and provides App State opportunities to notch some Ws.
Home games against Maine, Charlotte, Georgia State and ULM should put the Mountaineers as double-digit favorites, while road games against Coastal Carolina, Georgia Southern and South Alabama provide winnable opportunities as well.
App appears outmatched against NC State, East Carolina, James Madison and Marshall. In fact, it could be catching double-digit points in all four of those games. But overall, there are eight winnable games on the schedule.
I wouldn’t be stunned if the Mountaineers end up 6-6 and sneak into a bowl game.
Spots to Play Appalachian State
- vs. Charlotte
- vs. Old Dominion
- @ South Alabama
Spots to Fade Appalachian State
- @ Marshall
- @ NC State
Appalachian State Players to Watch
- RB Ja’Quez Cross
- DL Aiden Benton
- LB Colton Phares
- QB Malachi Singleton
- TE Darrin Fugitt
Pick: Appalachian State Under 5.5 Wins (Lean · +130)
Clay Helton heads into Year 5 still looking for a breakthrough season in Statesboro.
Last year, the offense wasn't nearly efficient enough to overcome a porous run defense that was one of the worst at the FBS level. I worry that unit won't be any better this season.
Georgia Southern struggled to get off the field on third down, allowing a successful conversion on 46.1% of attempts. The defense didn’t play too poorly in the red zone, but it was forced to defend the red zone 58 times, which is far too many.
The offense has holes after producing players depart, and it's tough to see much improvement on either side of the ball.
Georgia Southern Offense
Max Johnson enters his seventh season of playing college football after injury-filled stints at UNC, Texas A&M and LSU, looking to compete for the starting job in what will likely be his final college campaign. Helton’s son, Turner, is the backup.
I don't have a great amount of confidence in this unit, and Johnson’s durability will be tested, as he will be protected by potentially the weakest offensive line in the conference.
All five starters from last year’s O-line departed, and while the Eagles cut the sacks down to 30 and increased the rushing average to 4.3 yards per carry, these numbers likely aren't sustainable given the personnel on this year's line.
Mo Clipper Jr. transfers in from Charlotte to play left guard, while Caelan Williams is coming back from a season-ending injury sustained last year.
Center Ty Furnish ran with the second team last year and is expected to contend for a starting spot alongside right guard Matthew Williams, who has played occasionally over the last three years.
The bright spot in the skill-position rooms is receiver Josh Dallas, who had a breakout season in 2024 but suffered a season-ending injury early last year.
River Helms is a decent receiving threat at tight end, but once again, is coming off a major injury.
Ashton Hollins and Andre Greene Jr. come in from the Power 4 and could be decent second and third options.
The running back room is down a notch after the departure of OJ Arnold. David Mbadinga and Terrance Gibbs will seek to secure the starting running back role.
Georgia Southern Defense
Georgia Southern returns six starters from last year's defense, and there are some pieces to build around, but immediate improvement is needed.
MJ Stroud was a first-team all-conference player after registering 6.5 sacks last season, and he returns at the “Joker” position, where he can act as a down lineman or play off the ball as a backer.
Brandon Tyson is the leading returning tackler after making 87 stops last season. Elijah Fears and O'Marion Brown are back along the defensive line, although they're both a bit undersized.
Carlo Thompson could morph into a decent nickelback, and Tracy Hill Jr. and Chance Gamble are experienced at cornerback. Gamble was an all-conference performer in 2024 before suffering a season-ending injury halfway through last year.
A pair of FCS safeties transfer in, but safety depth is a question.
Overall, the defense has to focus on stopping the run, something that was a consistent problem last season.
Georgia Southern has a decent special teams unit with punter Alex Smith being a consistent weapon. Tripp Bryant hit 17-of-20 field goals last year with a long of 46 yards. A return specialist needs to emerge.
Georgia Southern Schedule Analysis
Georgia Southern was very fortunate in wins over Jacksonville State, Appalachian State, Coastal Carolina and Marshall last season, and there's reason to believe the good fortune will run out.
The Eagles play the second-toughest league schedule in 2026, per my SBC strength-of-schedule ratings metric, and the nonconference portion of the slate is brutal.
Back-to-back road games at Clemson and Jacksonville State will test this run defense immediately, and those games are followed up by a home date with Power 4 foe Houston.
After a conference road opener against Coastal Carolina, James Madison and Old Dominion — the top two contenders in the East — appear back-to-back in a five-day stretch.
App State and Marshall won't be easy games, and the draw out of the Sun Belt West is tougher with Troy and Louisiana Tech on the schedule to conclude the regular season.
There are nine potent rushing offenses on the slate, and Georgia Southern's weaknesses on both sides of the trenches have me believing this is a year of regression.
Spots to Play Georgia Southern
- vs. App State
- vs. James Madison
Spots to Fade Georgia Southern
- @ Jacksonville State
- vs. Houston
- vs. Marshall
Georgia Southern Players to Watch
- WR Josh Dallas
- OLB MJ Stroud
- ILB Brandon Tyson
- CB Chance Gamble
- P Alex Smith
Pick: Georgia Southern Alt. Under 5.5 Wins (-190 · DraftKings)
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It's stunning how fast Coastal Carolina has declined as a program.
Previous head coach Tim Beck never improved the team’s win-loss record and was let go following another losing season.
Ryan Beard comes in after riding a wave of success, transitioning Missouri State from an FCS bottom-feeder to a CUSA newcomer, and his offensive and defensive coordinators followed him to Conway as well.
Beard added 56 new players and will try to immediately turn the roster into a competitive bunch. He has a long way to go based on what we saw at times last year.
Coastal Carolina Offense
Samari Collier departs after sparking a winning streak in the middle of the season, leaving Tre Guerra, Deuce Bailey and Trever Jackson to battle it out for the starting quarterback job.
There's not an elite QB on the roster, even by SBC standards, but there wasn’t one last year before Collier emerged.
Jevon Edwards and Dominic Knicely should split carries at running back. Whoever wins the QB job will also add a running element that has made Coastal so dangerous to defend in the past.
Robby Washington is the leading returning receiver after racking up 278 yards and three touchdowns on 29 receptions last year.
Four of the top five receivers departed, but Coastal added seven transfers, including Tristian Gardner (Missouri State), Clayton Coppock Jr. (Kennesaw State) and tight end Cyrus Ellison (South Carolina State).
Weapons need to emerge because this is an underwhelming unit overall.
The offensive line is a complete rebuild, as is so often the case at the G6 level.
Former Central Michigan starting center Apisa Poumele should start here, along with Cristian Loaiza (Missouri State) and Mason Barton (Jackson State). Gavin McLaughlin played a bit here last year and should see time at right guard.
With four other transfers rounding out the two-deep, this unit has a significant amount of work to do.
Coastal Carolina Defense
The defense struggled to stop anything last year, as the Chanticleers surrendered 474 yards and 34 points per game in conference play.
Explosive plays were a consistent downfall. In fact, Coastal ranked 130th nationally in my explosiveness surrendered metric while allowing 23 plays of 40 yards or more.
Three starters on the defensive line are players from the FCS level, and Ahmad Poole followed Beard over from Missouri State. Two others from Missouri State are slotted in the second platoon, but this is an underwhelming front.
Se’Von McDowell is a solid outside linebacker who can rush the quarterback, and Marcellius Pulliam could blossom after transferring in from Michigan State.
Azarel Juste is a versatile player at the nickel position, while Ja'Marion Wayne is likely the best cornerback on the team. Jalen Lee comes over after a productive season at South Dakota State, but the rest of the secondary needs work.
Giving up the big play could continue to be an issue here.
Teal Nation is breaking in a new kicker, but punter Emile Sebafundi is back after averaging 42.7 yards per punt with a long of 67 yards last season.
The coverage units were poor, as Coastal allowed over 850 return yards last season, something that could improve this season.
Coastal Carolina Schedule Analysis
I don’t love the schedule for Coastal Carolina this season. The nonconference portion features a trip to West Virginia and a road game against emerging Delaware, along with a tough home game against Liberty.
Three brutal conference road games against Marshall, Louisiana and James Madison could find Coastal as a double-digit underdog.
Hosting Appalachian State, Arkansas State and Georgia Southern are coin-flip games, and the only assured win on the schedule is when the Chants host Fordham.
I don't think Coastal Carolina qualifies for a bowl game this year, and I lean under the posted win total.
Spots to Play Coastal Carolina
- vs. Georgia Southern
- vs. Old Dominion (Monarchs' 10th consecutive game; Coastal Carolina homecoming after recent bye)
Spots to Fade Coastal Carolina
- vs. West Virginia (Play WVU to -22.5)
- @ Marshall
- @ Louisiana
- @ James Madison
Coastal Carolina Players to Watch
- WR Robby Washington
- NB Azarel Juste
- OLB Se’Von McDowell
- S Jalen Lee
- RB Dominic Knicely
Pick: Coastal Carolina Under 4.5 Wins (Lean · +110)
Southern Miss finds itself in a tough spot after a successful last year.
Former head coach Charles Huff bolted for Memphis, and a high roster turnover leaves this team looking nothing like the one that contended for the Sun Belt West title last season before wilting down the stretch.
Only one returning starter is left for new head coach Blake Anderson, who was promoted from the offensive coordinator role. This is a complete reset both in roster personnel and program expectations.
The team has achieved more than three victories in a season just once in the previous five years before last season, and I expect a major drop in performance this year.
Southern Miss Offense
Anderson brings in Kyle Cefalo to run the offense, reuniting the two after working together at Utah State.
Ethan Hampton and Landry Lyddy are going to battle for the quarterback job, but whoever wins the job will be a significant downgrade over last year’s starter, Braylon Braxton.
Robert Briggs was the third-leading rusher last season and figures to get a bulk of the carries this year for the Golden Eagles. Brandon Hood transfers in from UMass, seeking to provide depth in the room.
The receiver production was wiped out, as the top nine from last season departed. Grant Page comes over from Utah State, and Mario Sanders transfers in from Illinois after playing sparingly there.
Three transfers from the lower divisions of college football could surprise, but I don't have high expectations.
The offensive line added 10 transfers after a mass exodus of talent departed following the bowl game, with starting center Broderick Roman being the lone holdover. He moves to right guard this season.
Rebuilding the left side of the line will be crucial if this team wants any chance of running the football this year.
Southern Miss Defense
Southern Miss has just one of its top 21 tacklers from last season returning, and there's a full rebuild happening at all three levels.
Jeffery Rush Jr. comes in from Ole Miss after being a reserve there for two years, and Nasim Cairo, JR Stegall and Kameron Cyprien transfer in from the non-FBS ranks.
This bunch is undersized, with plenty of unknowns. Players are going to have to play beyond their charted capacity to have a significant impact.
The linebacker group brings in Andrew Martin from Stetson, a non-scholarship FCS Pioneer League school. Mathis Haygood played a decent amount last season with the second team and could emerge as a leader in the linebacker room.
The secondary loses every player in the two-deep and will rely on players who were reserves at Tulsa, UConn, Southeast Missouri and Kansas.
Baron Taylor was a decent player at Southern Utah, starting 11 games and making 52 tackles last season. He could contend for playing time.
Kicker Creighton Wilbanks returns after hitting 9-of-14 field goals last season, and Grambling State punter Reed Harradine was brought in to compete for the starting job with Australian-Style punter Dusty Zimmer.
The return units need to find players to emerge, and I worry about the coverage units. This special teams unit could finish bottom-10 in all of FBS this season.
Southern Miss Schedule Analysis
I have Southern Miss favored once this season, coming in the opener against Alcorn State.
A home game with UConn should find the Golden Eagles as touchdown underdogs, and road games against Auburn, Tulane and Troy will see this group as multi-score 'dogs.
A road game against ULM is priced around a pick'em, per my power ratings, but three home games against Arkansas State, Louisiana and James Madison will make notching wins tough tasks.
This is a reset year, and I'd be stunned to see Southern Miss win more than three games. I played the win total under 3.5.
Spots to Play Southern Miss
- @ Louisiana Tech
- vs. James Madison (+28 or so)
Spots to Fade Southern Miss
- @ Auburn
- vs. Louisiana
- @ Old Dominion
Southern Miss Players to Watch
- RB Robert Briggs
- WR Jaylen Himes
- LB Mathis Haygood
- WR Grant Page
- DL JR Stegall
Pick: Southern Miss Under 3.5 Wins (+100)
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Monroe continues to be such a tough place to win. This program lacks the funding and program lore that many others have in the state of Louisiana.
ULM has just one winning season in its 25-year history as an FBS institution, as the roster continues to look like one that should be competing in the Southland rather than the Sun Belt.
I am stunned that Bryant Vincent stuck around another season, but he may be fielding his best team to date.
ULM Offense
Offensive coordinator Jesse Montalto was brought in to revamp the offense, which returns five starters and should adopt more Air Raid principles, which were deployed by Montalto during his time at Iowa Central Community College.
ULM scored just 15.4 points per game against FBS competition last year due to a lack of explosive playmakers and a horrific performance in the red zone.
These areas must be addressed in the offseason, and adjusting the offensive attack could spark growth.
Aiden Armenta, Landon Graves and Houston transfer Austin Carlisle are locked in a quarterback battle that figures to be settled deep into fall camp.
Most of the running back production left, so ULM brought Don Chaney in from Charlotte, where he did not play. Bryson Roland joins from D-II Arkansas Tech, as well.
Three of the top four receivers are back from last year, including Nic Trujillo and JP Coulter. Parker Fulghum comes over from Clemson, where he saw limited time in blowouts.
Bryce Anderson is a nice add at tight end, coming over after catching 12 passes for Memphis last season.
A pair of starters are back along the offensive line in left guard Kaliem Croswell and right tackle AJ Vinson. Three players from last year’s second platoon should contend for more snaps this year, and players were added from Memphis, East Mississippi Community College and D2 Tiffin University.
The depth is lacking, the unit doesn't boast much size, and it will also be learning new offensive schemes. This group could take a step back in 2026.
ULM Defense
The defense actually didn’t play too bad last year, as ULM allowed fewer rushing yards, less explosiveness and registered more sacks than the year before. However, the offense committed 19 turnovers, which really put the defense in bad spots.
Three starters are back this season, and there's hope for growth.
The defensive line loses all four starters from last year, and there's not a ton of experience coming back. CJ Wilson and Marvin Hall come in from the JUCO ranks, while James Smith and Jaeden Calender will be elevated from the second team to starting positions.
The linebacker room welcomes back Noah Flemmings, who racked up 80 tackles while garnering second-team All-Sun Belt honors a season ago.
Marcus Ross also played a decent amount last year, and Jabari Tiller is a hybrid nickel player who can stop the run in addition to supporting in pass coverage.
The secondary returns Carl Fauntroy at safety, along with Zy Jackson, who started sporadically at cornerback. The Warhawks really liked Jayden Lewis after he transferred in from the JUCO ranks, and there's a similar sentiment about DJ Jester, who was all over the field last year at the lower division ranks.
Whether that talent can translate to the FBS level is to be determined, but there are pieces here for ULM to be competent in the secondary.
The special teams remain horrific at ULM, ranking dead last in FBS in many aggregate special teams ratings. The kicking game was brutal, as ULM rotated three kickers who went just 2-of-7, as the Warhawks abandoned attempting field goals altogether.
The punting average was just 35 yards per kick, too. Improvement must occur.
ULM Schedule Analysis
This might be Vincent’s best team in Monroe, and the offense could be much more fun to watch this season.
I'm not enamored by the quarterback situation and the wide receiver group needs to elevate substantially, but the defense could be feisty again this season.
However, the schedule is tough.
The nonconference portion makes it hard to find wins, as back-to-back road trips against Mississippi State and UAB will see ULM as a decent-sized underdog. A victory over FCS Southeastern Louisiana isn't assured, either.
Hosting FAU could be a fun bout, but one where ULM will be a 10-point underdog. Drawing App State on the road and Marshall out of the East isn't ideal.
Ultimately, the Warhawks will be double-digit underdogs in every road game this year.
Hosting Southern Miss is a great chance at a win, and I wouldn’t be stunned if this team went on the road and beat South Alabama or Troy. I'd guess ULM wins four games or so.
Spots to Play ULM
- @ South Alabama
- vs. Louisiana Tech
- @ Troy
- vs. Southern Miss
Spots to Fade ULM
- @ Arkansas State
- @ Appalachian State
ULM Players to Watch
- QB Battle
- WR Nic Trujillo
- DL CJ Wilson
- LB Noah Flemmings
- NB Jabari Tiller
- S Carl Fauntroy
Pick: Pass
Georgia State had an opportunity to be much more competitive than what its 2025 record indicates.
The offense showed potential after turning the controls over to quarterback Cameran Brown, who flashed in limited action while throwing for 1,296 yards with a 13:1 touchdown-to-interception ratio.
Brown accumulated 322 rushing yards before sacks, which was good enough for second on the team. Georgia State scored 25.5 points per game in his four starts.
The defense is still probably a year away from being formidable, but with a more potent offensive output, the Panthers could find themselves in some fun, high-scoring affairs this season.
Year 3 is when coaches really start to see improvement, and after winning just four games over the past two seasons, I expect Dell McGee and this Panthers team to be a tougher out this year.
Georgia State Offense
Brown is back at QB and has the tools to lead scoring drives. He can make the tough throws and can move the ball on the ground.
His elusiveness was key last year, and a full season under center should enable him to stuff the box scores and help this offense put up points.
Much of the running back and receiver experience is gone, so Georgia State plucked stars from the lower levels of college football.
Lanear McCrary Jr. ran for 1,129 yards while averaging 5.8 yards per carry at D-II Shorter, and Savion Hart shined in the FCS ranks for Georgetown. Both could provide some pop.
The Panthers have to replace some explosive receiver talent, but Grant Hollier and DJ Riles are back and could emerge. Kyle Washington could fit in well in the slot too.
Tight end Matt Buron has decent size and should help in run blocking and receiving, as he did at Fordham.
The offensive line played much better than anyone could have expected last season, allowing just 18 sacks — its lowest total allowed since 2020.
Three starters return, and a pair of transfers from Oklahoma State and Florida could contend for starting snaps this fall.
Tyhler Williams is back at center after starting 12 games last season, and the tackles have good size. This could be an improved unit.
Georgia State Defense
The defense returns just two starters from a group that wasn’t overly dominant last season, and I expect more of the same this year.
The Panthers allowed five yards per carry on the ground and couldn't defend against the pass. Georgia State allowed 25 touchdown passes while plucking just three interceptions.
The stop unit also couldn't get off the field on third down, allowing a 47% conversion rate. Teams threatened in the red zone 62 times against the Panthers.
Georgia State will take a co-defensive coordinator approach with Cam Clark and John Haneline splitting up the DC duties. Both coaches have previous DC experience at the FCS level in what I would consider unsuccessful stints.
The defensive line saw seven contributors depart from last year, but Jabriel Rhodes-Nelson could be an impact player along the line. A pair of lower-level interior linemen have a ton to prove, and Kelan Butler showed some promise as a freshman last year but nothing eye-popping.
The linebackers are weak, but Jaydon Hood did play sparingly at Michigan and might be a better fit at this level.
The cornerbacks are small, and while I'm not confident they can effectively cover opposing receivers over the course of an entire season, Toby Bolton was a nice grab coming over from Tennessee Tech.
The safeties are young but have some decent experience. Incremental improvement is possible, but I doubt this group makes big strides.
The Panthers are breaking in a new kicker and punter, plucking from FCS Marist and D-II Wingate.
Punt return coverage was an issue early last season for Georgia State, but it improved as the season progressed.
Georgia State Schedule Analysis
Last year, Georgia State faced a brutal nonconference schedule with a pair of SEC opponents, along with a flagship G6 program in Memphis. This season's slate is much more manageable, though.
The Panthers shouldn’t have trouble in the opener against North Carolina A&T, a really weak FCS team that has gone 4-31 over the last four years.
Games against Kennesaw State and Northern Illinois are very winnable, as are a pair of home bouts against Coastal Carolina and Georgia Southern.
Georgia State pulled multiple upsets from 2021-24 and was very close last season. I wouldn’t be stunned if the Panthers pulled a shocker against a team like Old Dominion or Louisiana late in the season.
Spots to Play Georgia State
- Over vs. North Carolina A&T in Week 1
- vs. Northern Illinois
- vs. Old Dominion
- vs. Georgia Southern
Spots to Fade Georgia State
- @ Marshall
Georgia State Players to Watch
- QB Cameran Brown
- TE Grant Hollier
- TE Matt Buron
- DE Jabriel Rhodes-Nelson
- CB Toby Bolton
Pick: Georgia State Over 3.5 Wins (Lean · -166)
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