Eagles seek reset at App State as rivalry shifts to Thursday night in Boone

After a needed bye week, Georgia Southern travels to Appalachian State for a Thursday night showdown, aiming to regain momentum after slipping from Sun Belt title contention and facing uncertainty over bowl eligibility.

“There’s a billion excuses that can be made, but I’m not an excuse maker. My job is to win football games,” said head coach Clay Helton.

The game kicks off at Kidd Brewer Stadium in Boone, where the Eagles hold a 5–12 all-time record. Georgia Southern claimed victory in last year’s meeting, winning 29–20 in Statesboro.

This matchup also marks the first time since 2019 that the rivalry does not close the regular season schedule.

Key Players and Stats

Quarterback JC French IV has thrown a touchdown in 11 consecutive contests and is responsible for 19 total touchdowns—14 through the air and five on the ground.
Senior wideout Camden Brown has set a school record with nine touchdown receptions, placing him in a tie for fifth nationally.
Georgia Southern plans to stick with the same starting offensive line for the seventh straight week, a sign of stability up front.
On defense, linebacker and captain Brendan Harrington returns to Boone after six seasons with App State, where he recorded 167 tackles across 50 games.

Helton carries a 2–1 record against App State, though he has yet to win in Boone (0–1 at Kidd Brewer Stadium).

Author’s Summary

Georgia Southern strives to revive its season at Appalachian State on Thursday, leaning on offensive records, returning leadership, and a drive for redemption.

WJCL — 2025-11-04