RFC Summer Semester: Appalachian State and Georgia Southern

Editor's Note: We're taking a brief break from our regular conference previews to take a short look at some small college football teams who are making the transition from one division to another.  In this installment, we'll preview Appalachian State and Georgia Southern. So, sit back and enjoy!

2012 overall record in parentheses

Appalachian State (8-4):  Their final season as an official FCS member ended in heartbreak,  falling to Illinois State, 38-37, in the second round of the playoffs.  Now, as they begin their transition to the FBS, the Mountaineers must deal with the fact they have to nothing to play for, except pride, in 2013.  That's because they're ineligible for the Southern Conference title due to the transition. The Mountaineers will join the Sun Belt Conference in 2014.

Georgia Southern (10-4):  The Eagles reached the FCS semifinals for the third straight year, only to lose to eventual national champion North Dakota State, while falling to eventual national runner-up Delaware in 2010.  Like ASU, GSU must adjust to life as a program that's making the transition to the FBS. Head Coach Jeff Monken, however, won't be devoid of talent, as he welcomes 13 starters (7 offense, 6 defense), while losing nine (4 offense, 5 defense).  LIke the Mountaineers, the Eagles will play a full Southern Conference schedule, but will be ineligible for the league crown in 2013.  Like ASU, GSU will join the Sun Belt Conference in 2014.

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