Appalachian State and Georgia Southern meet in the Birmingham Bowl

Georgia Southern and Appalachian State will reignite their "Deeper Than Hate" rivalry in the 2025 Birmingham Bowl on December 29 at Protective Stadium, marking the first bowl appearance in Birmingham for both programs.

The 2025 JLab Birmingham Bowl promises fireworks as Georgia Southern (6-6) and Appalachian State (5-7) square off in a postseason clash that blends tradition, grit, and regional pride. Set for a 1 p.m. CT kickoff at Birmingham's Protective Stadium and broadcast nationally on ESPN, this matchup brings one of the Sun Belt's fiercest rivalries to a neutral stage for the first time in its 93-year history.

Known as the "Deeper Than Hate" rivalry, Georgia Southern and App State have met 41 times since 1932, with Appalachian State holding a narrow edge in the series at 22-18-1. However, the Eagles claimed a dramatic 25-23 victory in Boone earlier this season, setting the stage for a high-stakes rematch.

Georgia Southern enters the bowl riding momentum, having secured bowl eligibility with a gritty 24-19 win over Marshall. Quarterback JC French led the charge with 313 passing yards and two touchdowns, while standout receiver Camden Brown broke the school's single-season receiving record, surpassing 1,000 yards with a pair of scores. Brown's emergence as a deep threat and French's dual-threat capability give the Eagles a dynamic offensive edge.

Appalachian State, meanwhile, accepted the bowl bid after several other 5-7 teams declined, including Auburn and Florida State. Despite a narrow 30-29 loss to Arkansas State in their last outing, the Mountaineers boast a balanced attack led by quarterback JJ Kohl and running back Jaquari Lewis. Kohl threw for 271 yards and two touchdowns in the loss, while Lewis added 108 rushing yards and 21 receiving yards.

Both teams are eager to capitalize on the postseason spotlight. Georgia Southern Head Coach Clay Helton called the bowl invitation "a special opportunity" and praised the chance to represent Eagle Nation on a national stage. App State's Dowell Loggains echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the value of extra practices and a final game for his seniors.

Statistically, the matchup is tight. Georgia Southern averages 27.8 points per game to App State's 25.3, while both teams allow over 29 points per contest. The Eagles hold a slight edge in rushing and receiving production, thanks to OJ Arnold and Camden Brown, respectively. Betting lines favor Georgia Southern by 2 points, with an over/under set at 59.5, suggesting a high-scoring affair.

Beyond the gridiron, the Birmingham Bowl offers fans a festive experience, including a free Fan Fest and Pep Rally at Uptown on December 28. Tickets start at $39, and local organizers hope the game will showcase Birmingham's hospitality and vibrant food scene.

For Alabama football fans, especially those in the greater Birmingham/Hoover area, this bowl game offers a chance to witness two proud programs with deep Southern roots battle it out in a historic rivalry. Whether you're cheering for the Eagles or the Mountaineers, the 2025 Birmingham Bowl is set to deliver a thrilling conclusion to the college football season.