The 2025 season of Georgia Southern football has brought modest progress, but as of mid-October the Georgia Southern Eagles are still searching for consistency under head coach Clay Helton. With a 2-4 overall record and 0-2 mark in Sun Belt Conference play, the Eagles find themselves in a challenging position with several key issues to address ahead of the season’s second half.
Team Snapshot & Coaching Staff
- Georgia Southern football competes in the Sun Belt Conference’s East Division.
- Head coach Clay Helton is in his 4th year at the helm.
- Offensive coordinator Ryan Aplin is in his 2nd year, while defensive coordinator Brandon Bailey is in his 3rd year leading the 4-2-5 defensive scheme.
- Home games are played at Paulson Stadium in Statesboro, Georgia.
The coaching continuity has provided stability, but translating that into consistent on-field success remains the main challenge for the program.
Season to Date: Game Results & Trends
Recent Performance
Georgia Southern has had a rocky mid-season stretch. On October 9, 2025, the Eagles lost a close one to Southern Miss, 38-35 at Paulson Stadium. After falling behind 28-7, they rallied in the second half to outscore Southern Miss 28-10, but the early deficit proved too much.
Most recently, the Eagles faced their in-state rival Georgia State Panthers in the “Georgia Grown Bowl.” That matchup carried major implications for Sun Belt standings and state bragging rights. The team currently sits 0-2 in conference play, searching for its first Sun Belt win of the season.
Key Trends
- Offensively, the Eagles have shown flashes of power. Quarterback J.C. French IV threw for a season-high 313 yards, while wide receiver Camden Brown caught 12 passes for 158 yards in the Southern Miss game.
- The running game remains inconsistent. Georgia Southern managed only 82 rushing yards in that same matchup, showing a continued struggle in establishing ground dominance.
- Defensively, the team has improved after halftime adjustments but continues to give up early scores that make comebacks difficult. Coach Helton has emphasized the need to “start faster” and avoid costly lapses in the second quarter.
Offensive and Defensive Breakdown
Offense
The offense has leaned heavily on its passing game. J.C. French IV has been efficient, but the team’s reliance on the air attack has made them predictable at times. Receiver Camden Brown has emerged as the top target, leading the team in receptions and yardage through six games.
Running back O.J. Arnold has been the primary option in the backfield, posting 365 yards and 3 touchdowns so far this season. However, the offensive line has struggled to open consistent lanes, particularly against the stronger defensive fronts in conference play.
To compete effectively in the Sun Belt, the Eagles must balance their attack—mixing inside runs with short passing plays to keep opposing defenses guessing.
Defense
On defense, Georgia Southern continues to operate in a 4-2-5 formation designed for speed and flexibility. The unit has shown flashes of improvement, particularly in tackling and coverage adjustments during second halves. However, early breakdowns and missed assignments have led to big plays and quick scores by opponents.
Depth remains a concern, especially on the defensive line. The team’s ability to generate consistent pressure without blitzing has been limited, forcing the secondary into difficult coverage situations. The defense must tighten its execution to give the offense more opportunities and field position advantages.
Rivalry Spotlight: Georgia Grown Bowl
The matchup against Georgia State has become one of the most heated rivalries in the Sun Belt, now officially recognized as the “Georgia Grown Bowl.” What started in 2014 has evolved into an intense, pride-filled contest between two programs fighting for state supremacy.
For Georgia Southern football, the rivalry represents more than a single game—it’s a statement opportunity each year. In 2024, the Eagles secured a decisive 38-21 victory, giving them momentum entering the offseason. The 2025 meeting, however, was a crucial test to prove whether the program’s progress under Clay Helton could continue against their in-state opponent.
The rivalry has also had a positive effect on fan engagement, boosting attendance and local media attention. The annual clash continues to serve as one of the defining moments of each Georgia Southern season.
Outlook & What’s Next for Georgia Southern Football
Upcoming Challenges
With a 0-2 start in conference play, the Eagles face an uphill battle in the Sun Belt East Division. Their remaining schedule includes several tough road matchups, making it essential to win at home and correct recurring issues on both sides of the ball.
Bowl eligibility remains a realistic but difficult goal. To reach the six-win threshold, Georgia Southern must win at least four of its remaining games—requiring consistent execution, improved rushing efficiency, and a more disciplined defensive performance.
Key Focus Areas
- Start Fast: The team must avoid slow first halves that have plagued them in multiple games. Early deficits have forced Georgia Southern into one-dimensional play-calling.
- Offensive Balance: The Eagles need to complement their passing strength with a steady running game to control the clock and wear down defenses.
- Defensive Consistency: Building on second-half adjustments and preventing explosive plays will be key to turning close losses into wins.
- Discipline and Turnovers: Penalties and turnovers have hurt momentum. Cleaning up mental mistakes will determine how far the team can go this year.
- Rivalry Wins: Success in games like the Georgia Grown Bowl can provide a spark for recruiting and morale.
Fan & Community Support
Georgia Southern football maintains one of the most passionate followings in the Sun Belt. Paulson Stadium remains a fortress when the crowd gets behind the team, and that energy could play a vital role in turning the season around.
Helton’s program has built a culture centered on resilience and identity. While results have fluctuated, the fan base’s loyalty and the program’s proud tradition keep expectations high.
Bottom line: Georgia Southern football has shown glimpses of potential in 2025 but continues to face challenges in maintaining momentum and consistency. With a strong passing game, capable leadership, and a dedicated fan base, the Eagles have the ingredients for a turnaround. The final stretch of the season will determine whether they can turn promise into production and reassert themselves as contenders in the Sun Belt.
We’d love to hear from you: What do you think Georgia Southern football needs to do to finish strong this season?