Jacksonville State vs. Georgia Southern:

STATESBORO, GA - September 13, 2025

The Jacksonville State Gamecocks (1–1) head to Allen E. Paulson Stadium this Saturday to face the Georgia Southern Eagles (0–2) in a pivotal Week 3 contest. Kickoff is set for 6:00 p.m. CT and will be streamed live on ESPN+. With both teams looking to define their season's trajectory, this matchup promises grit, urgency, and a few fireworks.

Jacksonville State enters the game fresh off a 34–24 win over Liberty, while Georgia Southern is still reeling from a 59–20 loss to USC. The Eagles are favored by 3.5 points, but the Gamecocks have covered the spread in both of their outings this season.

Jacksonville State: Ground Game and Grit

The Gamecocks are leaning heavily on their rushing attack, led by standout running back Cam Cook. Cook has already racked up 270 yards and two touchdowns on the season, averaging 5.9 yards per carry. Quarterback Gavin Wimsatt has been efficient, throwing for 191 yards and rushing for 107 more, including a touchdown.

Jacksonville State ranks 21st nationally in rushing offense, averaging 251.5 yards per game. Their offensive line has shown discipline and power, creating space for Cook and Andrew Paul, who has added 92 yards and two scores of his own.

Defensively, the Gamecocks have allowed 478 yards per game, with particular vulnerability in the secondary. However, they've held opponents to just 20.5 points per game and have recorded six sacks and an interception.

Georgia Southern: Searching for Stability

The Eagles are still looking for their first win of the season. Quarterback JC French has thrown for 337 yards, four touchdowns, and two interceptions, but the offense has struggled to sustain drives. Wide receiver Camden Brown has been a bright spot, hauling in 130 yards and three touchdowns, while Dalen Cobb leads the team in receptions.

Georgia Southern's defense has been porous, allowing 50.5 points per game-ranking near the bottom nationally. Their run defense gave up 309 yards to USC last week, and their secondary surrendered 446 passing yards.

Despite the struggles, head coach Clay Helton remains optimistic. "We've got talent, but we need execution. Saturday is a chance to reset," he said during Thursday's media availability.

Key Matchups

• Cam Cook vs. Eagles Front Seven: If Cook gets rolling early, Jacksonville State could control the tempo.

• JC French vs. Gamecocks Secondary: French has the arm, but can he avoid turnovers against a defense that's gaining confidence?

• Third-Down Efficiency: Both teams have struggled here-whoever converts consistently may take control.

Prediction

Most analysts expect a close game. Betting models project a 28–27 win for Jacksonville State. The Gamecocks' rushing attack and defensive resilience give them a slight edge, especially if Georgia Southern's defensive woes continue.