App State vs Georgia Southern: Why “Deeper Than Hate” 

“Deeper Than Hate” is more than just a name—it’s the essence of the App State vs Georgia Southern rivalry. But why is it so important, and who will have the advantage in the upcoming match? In this comprehensive analysis, FlagOh will dissect everything: from the historical origins of the rivalry, H2H record, to detailed tactical analysis, expert predictions, and how to watch it live.

App State vs Georgia Southern Gameday Lowdown

Understanding the rivalry’s rich history is essential, but for fans preparing for game day, the practical details are paramount. Here is a complete breakdown of the 2025 showdown, from broadcast information to key situational factors. How to watch: TV channel, live stream options for cord-cutters, and kickoff time by time zone.

Where to watch App State football vs Georgia Southern football:

• Date: Thursday, November 6, 2025
• Kickoff Time: 7:30 PM ET
• Location: Kidd Brewer Stadium, Boone, North Carolina
• TV Channel: ESPN2
• Live Stream: WatchESPN, FuboTV
• Audio/Radio Broadcast: For fans on the move, the game will also be broadcast on local radio affiliates.
  • App State Feed: Mountaineer Sports Network
  • Georgia Southern Feed: Georgia Southern Sports Network

The Gameday Vitals on Weather: Forecast: clear, cool evening in Boone; temperatures trending to the low 40s °F (≈5 °C) by the fourth quarter. Winds around 9 mph — minimal impact on passing and kicking.

The App State vs Georgia Southern Tactical Breakdown

At FlagOh, we see the 2025 App State vs Georgia Southern game as more than just a rivalry; it’s a fascinating tactical clash. This battle will be defined by each team’s specific strengths and exploitable weaknesses.

How App State Wins

The Mountaineers (4-4) come into this game needing two wins to secure bowl eligibility. Their strength lies in a balanced attack, leaning on a strong passing game (280.8 yards/game) and the powerful running of Arkansas transfer Rashod Dubinion (756 rushing yards, 4 TDs). When you analyze the App State football vs Georgia Southern football match player stats, it’s clear Dubinion is the engine that makes this offense run, and their entire game plan will likely center on him.

How Georgia Southern Wins

The Eagles (3-5) are in a must-win situation for their bowl hopes. Their identity is built on their offense, led by dual-threat QB JC French IV (1,677 pass yds, 14 TDs; 202 rush yds, 5 TDs) and RB OJ Arnold (512 rush yds, 3 TDs). However, their glaring weakness is a run defense that ranks near the bottom of the FBS, allowing a problematic 240.9 yards per game.

Key Matchups That Will Decide the Game

1. App State run game vs GSU run defense: The clearest mismatch. Rashod Dubinion (756 rush yds, 4 TDs) behind a balanced attack faces a front allowing 240.9 rushing ypg. If the Mountaineers establish early-down efficiency, they can control tempo and clock.
2. JC French IV vs App State secondary: A dual-threat with 1,677 pass yds/14 TDs + 202 rush yds/5 TDs tests a defense that’s sturdy vs the run (110.5 ypg) but vulnerable to explosives. Contain/pressure rules this matchup.
3. GSU ground game vs App State front (injury-dependent): If DL Shawn Collins (App) is out, A/B-gap lanes open for QB keepers and RB OJ Arnold (512 rush yds, 3 TDs); with Collins active, App State retains the edge on early downs.
4. App State WRs vs GSU secondary depth (injury-dependent): If CB A. Brown Sr. (GSU) is out, expect more perimeter isolations and play-action verticals for App State; with him active, GSU can disguise and help over the top.

Injury swing factors to monitor: App State DL Shawn Collins (Q); Georgia Southern CB A. Brown Sr. (Q); RB David Mbadinga (Q).

App State vs Georgia Southern Prediction

Prediction: Appalachian State 34, Georgia Southern 24

Here is FlagOh’s final expert read on this showdown. While the rivalry is notoriously unpredictable, this final score is based on clear statistical advantages.

The storyline is simple: Georgia Southern’s defense has struggled significantly to stop the run, and Appalachian State’s primary strength is running the ball with Rashod Dubinion. At home, on a cold night, App State will likely establish the ground game early. GSU will make a few big plays with JC French IV, but it may not be enough to overcome their critical defensive flaw.

Decisive Factors (X-Factors):

Beyond that main statistical mismatch, three other factors support this prediction.

First, home-field advantage is significant. Kidd Brewer Stadium (“The Rock”) at night for a Thursday rivalry game is a well-known hostile environment for visiting teams.

Second is the turnover battle. App State has struggled with ball security, holding a -3 turnover margin this season, and cannot afford to give GSU’s offense extra possessions.

Finally, the game may be won on 3rd down. This is a critical statistical weakness for both teams. App State’s offense struggles to extend drives (converting just 35.9% of the time). However, GSU’s defense is even more vulnerable, allowing opponents to convert 45.4% of the time. The team that wins this “must-have” down will control the game.

The Story Behind the “Deeper Than Hate” Rivalry

The famous intensity of App State vs Georgia Southern comes from its past. The “Deeper Than Hate” slogan isn’t about pure animosity, but rather a deep respect built on parallel journeys.

A Shared History: From SoCon Kings to Sun Belt Twins:

This rivalry was forged in the 1980s and 90s in the Southern Conference (SoCon) at the I-AA/FCS level. They weren’t just rivals; they were the two dominant powers, combining for nine FCS National Championships (GSU 6, App 3). They were the benchmark for each other. In 2014, both programs accepted invitations to move up to the FBS and join the Sun Belt Conference together. In essence, the programs are twins—histories, goals, and fanbases closely mirror each other.

The 1987 “Ice Bowl”: The Game That Ignited the Rivalry:

The modern rivalry truly began on December 5, 1987. Georgia Southern, the two-time defending national champion, traveled to Boone to face App State in the I-AA Quarterfinals. On a dangerously icy field, the Mountaineers shut down GSU’s powerful offense, winning 19-0. This “Ice Bowl” was the first true shot fired, establishing a high-stakes, championship-level competition that has defined them ever since.

All-Time Record and Last Five Meetings

The all-time numbers reflect just how competitive this series has been, spanning two different divisions of college football.

Note: Records are based on official athletic department data prior to the 2025 season.

App State vs Georgia Southern All-Time Series Record:

Statistic	All-Time
Total Meetings	38
Series Record	App State leads, 21-16-1
Longest Win Streak	Georgia Southern (4 games, 2000-02)
In the Sun Belt (FBS) era	App State leads, 6-5
Last Game (Nov. 30, 2024)	Georgia Southern 29, App State 20

Recent Results & Trends (Last 5 Games):

While App State holds the all-time lead, the rivalry has been marked by streaks and upsets, especially recently. Georgia Southern snapped a three-game losing streak in the series with their 2024 win.

• 2024: Georgia Southern 29, App State 20
• 2023: Appalachian State 55, Georgia Southern 27
• 2022: Georgia Southern 51, Appalachian State 48 (2OT)
• 2021: Appalachian State 27, Georgia Southern 3
• 2020: Appalachian State 34, Georgia Southern 26

Colors for Rivalry Night Gameday Flags and Gear

High-emotion rivalry under the lights. It’s a night to represent your program with pride, from the early morning tailgate to the final whistle.

Watch the Game & Join the Atmosphere:

Tune in on Thursday night and make your voice heard. Whether you’re joining the tailgating scene at “The Rock” in Boone or in Statesboro, this is what college football is all about.

Suppose you’re still looking for last-minute Georgia Southern vs App State tickets. In that case, we recommend checking the official university box offices first for verified seats to avoid scams and inflated secondary market prices.

Get Your Rivalry Gear & Share Your Pride:

For gameday setups, consider an official App State, Georgia Southern, or rivalry flag from FlagOh. Fly your colors and show your support. Whether you’re in Boone or Statesboro, let everyone know who you stand with in the “Deeper Than Hate” rivalry. This is what college football tradition is all about. 

The “Deeper Than Hate” Rivalry Cheat Sheet

If you’re just looking for a quick answer, here are the facts for the most common questions about this rivalry.”

Who is favored to win App State vs Georgia Southern in 2025?
Appalachian State is the 5.5-point favorite over Georgia Southern for the November 6, 2025, game. This is largely due to their statistical advantages and playing at home.

What is the all-time record between App State and GSU?
As of 2025, Appalachian State leads the all-time series 21-16-1 over 38 meetings.

Who won the last App State and GSU game?
Georgia Southern won the most recent game, defeating Appalachian State 29-20 on November 30, 2024, in Statesboro.

Why is the rivalry called “Deeper Than Hate”?
The ‘Deeper Than Hate’ moniker reflects mutual respect rooted in shared FCS dominance and a joint move to the Sun Belt in 2014.

From the 1987 “Ice Bowl” to the tactical showdown ahead, App State vs Georgia Southern remains one of college football’s most unique and underrated rivalries. Based on analysis by FlagOh—especially the disparity in the ground game—we expect the home team to prevail. Whatever the final score, the “Deeper Than Hate” tradition will endure.