Attired in a crisp dark suit, pearl gray necktie and a four-peak pocket square, the dynamically monikered Josh Dallas seems less a FBS wide receiver and more a polished politician. His eagerness to seize the microphone is matched only by his enthusiasm for snagging passes. The latter is more hunger than enthusiasm – Dallas’ last season ended yearly after suffering an injury against USC. The downtown granted him a new perspective on the game.

“You see football differently from the sideline,” said Dallas, flashing a 1,000-watt smile. He presents a kind of etherial quality to the magic of Georgia Southern, crediting the school for his success as a football player, husband, and (just recently) a dad. “You’re not just a number at Georgia Southern, you’re a soul.” Georgia Southern would do well to transcribe Dallas’ interviews and print brochures.

In 2024, Dallas caught 46 passes for 614 yards and a team-high six touchdowns. Expect an increase in those numbers this season, though if football doesn’t work out, he has a career in motivational speaking waiting for him. Not that he’s really thinking about that. “I can’t freaking wait to play football,” he announced.

Meanwhile, Appalachian State head coach Dowell Loggains is in good spirits when introducing his new dual-threat quarterback, Malachi Singleton, a former 4-star and a transfer via Arkansas and Purdue. Singleton is built like a bar bouncer Loggains is likely cheered by the vision of his quarterback bowl-over Sun Belt linebackers. Look for the Mountaineers to regain their menace this season.

Ryan Beard is Coastal Carolina’s new head coach, replacing Tim Beck. Beard, the former head coach of Missouri State, is reportedly 35 years old, but he looks ten years younger. He could probably don the pads and slip unnoticed into the huddle. If he tries hitting the blackjack table here in New Orleans, I advise him to have his ID ready. Where he lacks in years, he certainly makes up for in enthusiasm. “Everything means everything!” he insists. He’s soon to learn that the only thing that matters to Chanticleers fans is winning. Just ask Tim Beck.

It may surprise you to learn that Old Dominion head coach Ricky Rahne, now in his seventh season, is the elder statesman of the Sun Belt. After a couple disappointing seasons, I had placed him on the hot seat, but that chair is pleasantly air conditioned these days. Winning ten games will fluff your throw pillows.

PHOTOS are MINE