Georgia Southern University boasts a rich athletic history, particularly in football, filled with remarkable achievements and memorable moments. While the Eagles haven't claimed a national championship at the highest level of college football (FBS), their legacy includes impressive accomplishments that solidify their place among college football's most successful programs. Let's delve into their history and clarify the question of national championships.
Georgia Southern's Dominance in the NCAA Division I-AA (FCS)
Before transitioning to the FBS level, Georgia Southern competed in the NCAA Division I-AA, now known as the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). This is where their most significant national championship success lies. The Eagles secured three national championships during their time in the FCS:
- 1985: Georgia Southern defeated Furman University to claim their first national title.
- 1986: The Eagles repeated their success, winning another national championship.
- 1989: In their final year before moving to Division I-A (now FBS), Georgia Southern capped off their I-AA era with a third national championship victory.
These three titles firmly establish Georgia Southern's dominance in the FCS and cemented their place in college football history. Their triple-championship run is a testament to the program's strength and exceptional coaching during that era.
The Transition to FBS and the Pursuit of Further Success
Georgia Southern transitioned to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) in 2014. Competing at this higher level presents a different set of challenges, and the program has been steadily building towards achieving comparable success. While they haven't yet reached the pinnacle of an FBS national championship, their consistent competitiveness and impressive wins against FBS opponents demonstrate their continuing growth and potential.
Defining "National Championship" in College Football
It's crucial to understand that the definition of a "national championship" in college football can be nuanced. Prior to the establishment of the College Football Playoff (CFP), there wasn't a single, universally accepted champion. Different organizations and polls often crowned different teams as national champions. Georgia Southern's three national championships were earned in the I-AA (FCS) era, which had its own championship game determining the national champion. The landscape of FBS national championships is vastly different, with the CFP system now determining the champion.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Excellence
While Georgia Southern hasn't yet won a national championship in the FBS, their three FCS national championships represent a remarkable achievement and a significant part of their legendary history. The Eagles' dedication to excellence, both on and off the field, continues to build upon their strong legacy. Their transition to the FBS and subsequent performance demonstrates the program’s ambition and future potential for even greater success. The question of whether Georgia Southern has won a national championship ultimately depends on the level of competition considered, but their three FCS titles indisputably mark them as a highly successful program in college football history.
