GATA Talk

GATA Talk is back for Season 9! We kick things off by recapping the 2026 offseason, then move into previewing the special teams and defensive units of the Eagles ahead of the start of the 2026 football season. Show Notes:  Offseason Recap: New Voice, Eagle Creek Development Special Teams Preview: Tripp Bryant, Alex Smith, Kick Returners  Defense: What Will Mike Mutz's Defense Look Like? Key Departures and Additions Realistic Expectations for the Defense

3d ago·1h 27m

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

Jan 12·34 min

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

Jan 7·2h 30m

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

Dec 15·2h 44m

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

Dec 4·1h 37m

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

Nov 25·1h 33m

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?

Nov 18·1h 10m

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

Nov 12·1h 4m

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

Nov 4·1h 13m

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

Oct 22·1h 4m

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

Oct 14·1h 33m

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

Oct 2·1h 2m

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?

Oct 1·1h 15m

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?

Sep 23·1h 45m

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

Sep 16·1h 8m

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?

Sep 9·1h 5m

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?

Sep 3·55 min

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

Aug 25·56 min

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

Aug 21·1h 14m

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

Aug 13·1h 55m

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

Jul 24·1h 15m

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

Dec 12·1h 41m

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?

Dec 3·1h 31m

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

Nov 26·1h 26m

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

Nov 20·1h 6m

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

Nov 13·1h 9m

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

Nov 5·1h 29m

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

Oct 29·1h 5m

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

Oct 21·54 min

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

Oct 15·1h 34m

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!

Oct 8·1h 34m

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

Sep 25·1h 37m

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

Sep 24·1h 12m

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

Sep 17·1h 15m

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

Sep 9·1h 14m

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

Sep 3·1h 49m

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!

Aug 27·1h 37m

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?

Aug 20·2h 25m

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

Aug 13·1h 45m

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

Aug 6·1h 7m

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

Jul 2·1h 44m

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?

Dec 10·1h 45m

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

Nov 29·1h 8m

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?

Nov 21·1h 30m

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

Nov 13·1h 21m

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

Nov 6·1h 23m

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?

Oct 31·55 min

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

Oct 23·1h 17m

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

Oct 16·52 min

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?

Oct 11·1h 32m