Georgia Southern has shown solid performance, but the competitive Sun Belt Conference presents constant challenges. Under Coach Clay Helton, the team has improved significantly since its 3-9 finish in 2021. The passing game is effective, the offense remains aggressive, and the team capitalizes on scoring opportunities. However, standing out in the Sun Belt, where nearly every team is strong, is tough. The 2024 season is expected to be even more challenging.
Despite achieving six-win seasons and two bowl appearances in the last two years, Georgia Southern aims to become a standout team this year, a difficult goal given the competitive landscape. Of their 14 losses over the past two years, only one (a rivalry game against Georgia State) was against a non-bowl team. Every game this season will be a tough 50/50 battle against a grueling schedule.
Georgia Southern might end up being a better team than their record suggests unless they can reduce turnovers, avoid penalties, and get cohesive play from their experienced squad. At the very least, the Eagles will be formidable opponents every week.
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**2024 Offense Preview**
The offense should remain exciting, with a passing game that approached 4,000 yards and a solid ground game. The team went 6-0 when scoring 34 points or more but 0-7 when scoring fewer, highlighting the importance of maintaining their aerial attack.
With quarterback Davis Brin gone, new quarterbacks need to step up. Dexter Williams, who didn’t see much action at Indiana, has the skills to succeed, while 2023 backup JC French has enough experience to potentially take over.
The receiving corps is strong despite the loss of 101-catch Khaleb Hood. Derwin Burgess, who led the team with six touchdown catches on 74 receptions, and Dalen Cobb, who had 40 catches, are key players. Auburn transfer Tyler Fromm adds depth at tight end.
The ground game isn’t just an afterthought. Jalen White returns after leading the team with 889 yards and nine touchdowns, averaging 5.6 yards per carry. Backup OJ Arnold is also reliable, averaging 5.5 yards per carry. The offensive line, bolstered by transfers like OT Kyle Frazier (Savannah State) and OG Justin Kanyuk (North Carolina), needs to step up alongside veterans like C Chandler Strong and OG Pichon Wimbley.
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**2024 Defense Preview**
The defense returns with a wealth of experience and depth, but needs to boost its production. It starts with better line performance, anchored by 340-pound Latrell Bullard and the quick Justin Rhodes on the inside. The pass rush remains a concern, but the defense does get into the backfield, with ends Isaac Walker and Davion Rhodes needing to pressure the quarterback more.
Linebackers require more playmakers. Marques Watson-Trent is one of the Sun Belt’s top defenders, but he needs support from players like Washington State transfer Davon Hicks and MJ Stroud in rotation.
The secondary, capable of strong hits, needs more help due to a lack of a great pass rush. Tyrell Davis, Marc Stampley, and TJ Smith combined for 173 tackles and are reliable, but the corners, including three transfers, must step up to fill crucial roles.
