New Orleans Bowl: Georgia Southern vs Sam Houston Preview – December 19
The New Orleans Bowl at Caesars Superdome will feature Georgia Southern and Sam Houston, two programs looking to cap successful seasons with a statement victory. Georgia Southern aims for its ninth win of the year, while Sam Houston looks to make history in its first-ever bowl appearance since transitioning to the FBS level. Both teams enter this matchup with unique storylines, setting the stage for an exciting contest.
Sam Houston (9-3) will play under interim head coach Brad Cornelsen following K.C. Keeler’s departure. Cornelsen, the team’s offensive coordinator, inherits a well-rounded team led by a strong defense and versatile quarterback Hunter Watson. On the other side, Georgia Southern (8-4) continues to shine under Clay Helton, thanks to a balanced offense and the standout play of Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year Marques Watson-Trent.
Georgia Southern Eagles
Georgia Southern boasts an efficient offense led by quarterback JC French, who has thrown for 2,619 yards and 16 touchdowns this season. The Eagles have multiple weapons at receiver, including Derwin Burgess Jr., Dalen Cobb, and Josh Dallas, who have combined for 12 touchdowns. Complementing the passing game is running back Jalen White, who leads the team with 654 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns.
Defensively, the Eagles are anchored by linebacker Marques Watson-Trent, who leads the team with 110 tackles and ranks eighth nationally in tackles per game. Georgia Southern’s defense has excelled at controlling the pace and forcing turnovers, giving their offense favorable opportunities to capitalize on opposing mistakes.
Sam Houston Bearkats
Sam Houston enters this game with a strong defense, leading Conference USA by allowing just 20 points per game. Standout players like Caleb Weaver, Kavian Gaither, and Chris Murray anchor a unit that has consistently limited opponents’ scoring opportunities. This defensive strength will be crucial against Georgia Southern’s balanced attack.
On offense, quarterback Hunter Watson has been the team’s leader, both through the air and on the ground. Watson has accounted for 1,598 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, and an additional 623 rushing yards with seven scores. Running back Jay Ducker adds balance to the offense with 719 rushing yards and seven touchdowns, while Simeon Evans leads the team with 44 receptions and five touchdowns.
Pick and Prediction
Georgia Southern brings more offensive firepower into this matchup, but Sam Houston’s defensive efficiency cannot be overlooked. The Bearkats have excelled at limiting scoring opportunities, and their ability to slow down Georgia Southern’s passing game will keep this game competitive. However, Georgia Southern’s experience and depth on both sides of the ball provide a slight edge in what should be a hard-fought battle.
Expect Georgia Southern to capitalize on key turnovers and find success through their passing attack. While Sam Houston will keep it close with strong defense and the versatility of Hunter Watson, Georgia Southern’s consistency will ultimately make the difference.
- Prediction: Georgia Southern 27, Sam Houston 20