Arnold's Heroics Lift Georgia Southern Over Jacksonville State in 41–34 Shootout

September 13, 2025 - STATESBORO, Ga. - In a game defined by explosive plays, momentum swings, and late-game grit, Georgia Southern earned its first win of the season by edging Jacksonville State 41–34 on Saturday night at Paulson Stadium. The Eagles rode a career-best performance from running back OJ Arnold, who rushed for 128 yards and sealed the victory with a go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter.

The matchup drew 24,585 fans-one of the largest crowds in stadium history-and delivered a spectacle worthy of the turnout. Both teams entered the contest with 1–1 records and a hunger to establish early-season momentum. What followed was a back-and-forth battle that saw five lead changes, two special teams touchdowns, and a combined 75 points.

First-Quarter Fireworks

The opening quarter set the tone with a flurry of scoring. Georgia Southern struck first with a two-yard touchdown run by quarterback JC French IV. Jacksonville State responded immediately, as Gavin Wimsatt scrambled for a 10-yard score. On the ensuing kickoff, Dalen Cobb electrified the crowd with a 95-yard return touchdown-the first for Georgia Southern since 2023. By the end of the quarter, the Eagles led 17–14, and the shootout was officially underway.

Second-Quarter Surge

Arnold continued his dominance in the second quarter, breaking free for a 32-yard touchdown run. French IV added to the tally with an 18-yard touchdown pass to Camden Brown, and kicker Tripp Bryant nailed a 37-yard field goal-his first in college play. The Eagles entered halftime with a 31–17 lead, tying the most points scored in a half under head coach Clay Helton.

Jacksonville State, however, refused to fold. Wimsatt led a late second-quarter drive that culminated in a touchdown, trimming the deficit to 31–24 at the break.

Gamecocks Rally in the Third

The third quarter belonged to Jacksonville State. Wimsatt orchestrated two scoring drives, including a field goal and a second rushing touchdown, giving the Gamecocks a 34–31 lead. Georgia Southern's offense stalled, and the momentum appeared to shift toward the visitors.

But the Eagles' defense held firm when it mattered most. Bryant tied the game with a clutch 43-yard field goal early in the fourth quarter, setting the stage for Arnold's defining moment.

Arnold's Fourth-Quarter Redemption

With just over six minutes remaining, Georgia Southern mounted a six-play, 65-yard drive. Arnold capped it off with a six-yard touchdown run, his second of the night, putting the Eagles ahead 41–34. The defense then forced a Jacksonville State punt, and Arnold helped run out the clock with a series of bruising carries.

Arnold tallied 80 of his 128 rushing yards in the second half, including 26 on the final drive. "He's a warrior," Coach Helton said postgame. "When the game's on the line, we trust him to deliver-and tonight, he did just that."

Key Performances

JC French IV finished 16-for-24 passing for 191 yards and a touchdown, adding 33 rushing yards and a score. Cobb contributed six receptions for 70 yards and 129 return yards, while linebacker Brandon Tyson led the defense with 11 tackles for the second straight game.

For Jacksonville State, Wimsatt threw for 178 yards and a touchdown, while rushing for 56 yards and two scores. Despite the loss, his dual-threat ability kept the Gamecocks competitive throughout.

Looking Ahead

Georgia Southern (1–2) will host Maine next Saturday, hoping to build on the momentum. Jacksonville State (1–2) will regroup and prepare for its next conference challenge.

In a game filled with drama and dazzling plays, it was Arnold's resilience and Georgia Southern's late-game execution that made the difference. For fans in Statesboro, it was a night to remember-and for the Eagles, perhaps the turning point of their season.