Middle Georgia State University (MGA) has rapidly risen through the ranks of the Football Championship Series (FCS), establishing itself as a formidable force in college football. With a rich history, dedicated athletes, and an innovative coaching staff, MGA football is poised for continued success in the years to come.
A Proud Tradition
MGA football traces its roots back to 1948 when the school fielded its first team. Over the decades, the program has enjoyed numerous successes, including conference championships and playoff appearances. In 2017, MGA became an NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) program, marking a significant milestone in its history.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
MGA boasts state-of-the-art football facilities that provide its athletes with the best possible training and game-day experience. The new football stadium, opened in 2019, features a 5,500-seat capacity and is equipped with modern amenities, including a full-service weight room, training facilities, and locker rooms.
Dedicated Athletes
MGA football players are known for their dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to the team. The program’s rigorous training regimen and demanding academic schedule attract student-athletes who are driven to succeed both on and off the field.
Innovative Coaching Staff
Led by Head Coach Marty Conn, the MGA coaching staff is renowned for its innovative approach to football. Coach Conn, a former defensive coordinator at the University of Georgia, has implemented a high-octane, spread offense that has transformed the team into one of the most prolific in the FCS.
A Bright Future
With a young, talented roster and a dedicated coaching staff, MGA football has a bright future ahead. The program has established itself as a consistent playoff contender and is poised to make a run at a national championship in the coming years.
Key Statistics
- MGA has a 91-45 overall record since its inception in 1948.
- The team has won five conference championships (1994, 1995, 2015, 2018, 2019).
- MGA has made four FCS playoff appearances (2015, 2018, 2019, 2021).
- The team has been ranked as high as No. 5 in the FCS Coaches Poll.
Notable Alumni
MGA football has produced several notable alumni who have gone on to successful careers in professional football:
- Antonio Dennard (Denver Broncos, Green Bay Packers)
- Evan Berry (Cleveland Browns, Indianapolis Colts)
- Clint Session (Jacksonville Jaguars, Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
- Johnny Culbreath (Baltimore Ravens, Chicago Bears)
- Rashaad Carmichael (Houston Texans, Los Angeles Chargers)
Strategies for Success
MGA football’s success can be attributed to several key strategies:
- Recruiting Highly Talented Athletes: The coaching staff focuses on recruiting the best student-athletes in Georgia and beyond.
- Implementing an Innovative Offensive System: Coach Conn’s spread offense has given MGA a significant advantage against opponents.
- Developing a Strong Defense: The team’s defense has consistently been ranked among the top in the FCS, known for its physicality and ability to create turnovers.
- Creating a Positive Team Culture: The coaching staff emphasizes the importance of teamwork, discipline, and respect, fostering a culture of success.
Tips and Tricks for Fans
- Attend Home Games: Experience the excitement of MGA football in person at the state-of-the-art football stadium.
- Follow the Team on Social Media: Stay up-to-date on the latest news, scores, and highlights from the team.
- Join the Alumni Association: Connect with other MGA football alumni and support the program through financial contributions and networking opportunities.
- Purchase Team Merchandise: Show your support for MGA football by purchasing official team apparel and gear.
Useful Tables
Head Coaching History
| Name | Tenure | Record |
|---|---|---|
| Joe Gates | 1948-1950 | 11-11-2 |
| Bob Reaves | 1951-1952 | 2-14-1 |
| Grady Alderman | 1953-1955 | 13-8-1 |
| Harry Moore | 1956-1957 | 7-8-1 |
| Jim Felker | 1958-1962 | 27-19-1 |
| Neal Anderson | 1963-1965 | 18-8-1 |
| Joe Turner | 1966-1968 | 16-14 |
| Paul Moore | 1969-1971 | 14-15 |
| Jim Loos | 1972-1980 | 55-43-3 |
| Bill Joyner | 1981-1983 | 15-17 |
| Stan Barfield | 1984-1985 | 10-11 |
| Billy Newberry | 1986-1993 | 48-40-3 |
| Matt Huse | 1994-1996 | 22-13 |
| Tim Brew | 1997-2004 | 51-45 |
| Matt Peacock | 2005-2013 | 59-50 |
| Marty Conn | 2014-Present | 64-23 |
Conference Championships
| Year | Conference | Record |
|---|---|---|
| 1994 | Gulf South Conference | 9-2 |
| 1995 | Gulf South Conference | 9-2 |
| 2015 | Gulf South Conference | 11-1 |
| 2018 | Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) | 10-1 |
| 2019 | SIAC | 11-1 |
Notable Individual Awards
| Player | Award | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Antonio Dennard | Buck Buchanan Award (National Defensive Player of the Year) | 2008 |
| Evan Berry | College Football America Defensive Player of the Year | 2011 |
| Clint Session | Football Championship Subdivision All-American Defensive Back | 2007 |
| Johnny Culbreath | FCS All-American Defensive Back | 2018 |
| Rashaad Carmichael | FCS All-American Running Back | 2017 |
FCS Playoff Appearances
| Year | Round | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | First Round | Loss to Jacksonville State, 27-34 |
| 2018 | First Round | Loss to Incarnate Word, 17-24 |
| 2019 | First Round | Loss to Southeastern Louisiana, 17-34 |
| 2021 | First Round | Loss to Campbell, 27-55 |