Eagles’ Stars of Fall Camp
8/27/2026 12:00:00 PM | Football
STATESBORO – As fall camp comes to a close, Georgia Southern's coordinators – Ryan Aplin, Mike Mutz and Blake Wilson – each identified two to three players who stood out throughout camp and positioned themselves for impactful seasons in 2026.
OFFENSE
Colin Alexander, OL
Third-year right tackle Colin Alexander put his head down and went to work throughout fall camp, earning praise for his consistency, attention to detail and physicality.
The consistency – he shows up every day as the same guy, with the same attitude, Aplin said. You never know when the guy's having a bad day because he's always full tilt. He finishes every play, strains to the finish. He's been extremely detailed in his technique and in his assignments. He's really been glued in. He's a guy that, again, doesn't say a whole bunch, but the way he plays the game inspires the rest of the guys.
Ashton Hollins, WR
Illinois transfer Ashton Hollins brings Power 4 experience and an imposing 6-foot-5 frame to the Eagles' wide receiver room, giving quarterback Max Johnson a big target on the outside.
He came in with a hungry attitude, Aplin said. I don't feel like the guy ever gets tired. He's a workhorse. He's a leader by example, has great energy and does a great job of connecting with the guys. He's got a great presence. Again, he leads the way by example, and then in his own way, when he does speak, guys listen. He's not your overly vocal guy, but he has a great feel for big moments. In those big moments, he's not only made plays, but he's found a way to rally the guys and be one of the guys we can lean on in big-play opportunities.
Terrance Gibbs, RB
Fifth-year running back Terrance Gibbs returns to Paulson Stadium with plenty of experience and a noticeable new approach heading into the 2026 season.
Going into the offseason, he came in with a different approach, Aplin said. You've seen that carry from spring ball to summer and now into camp, and he just has a different look and feel when he comes out here. He's got a presence, and the guys feel him. Again, same thing – consistent, great attitude, great energy, high execution, very detailed, and plays extremely hard. And then you're starting to feel a little bit of leadership out of him that you just haven't felt since he's been here, which is great for us.
DEFENSE
Brandon Tyson, ILB
Returning starter Brandon Tyson has embraced an expanded leadership role in the linebacker room following the departure of former team captain Brendan Harrington. His experience and presence have made him a key piece of the Eagles' defense heading into the season.
Rashon Myles Jr., ILB
Abilene Christian transfer Rashon Myles Jr. may be new to Statesboro, but he quickly established himself as a leader within the Eagles' linebacker room. His experience and physical style have helped him make an early impact on the defensive unit.
Anthony Bynum, OLB
Middle Tennessee transfer Anthony Bynum has also made his presence felt during his first fall camp in Statesboro. The defensive lineman has stepped into a leadership role within the defensive line room while bringing valuable experience to the Eagles' front.
SPECIALISTS
Tripp Bryant, K
After a strong freshman season, former walk-on Tripp Bryant enters his second season having earned the starting kicking job. His accuracy, along with increased power, has made him a key piece of the Eagles' special teams unit.
Obviously, coming in last year as a true freshman, he was 85%, Wilson said. He was at 90% during camp, and his power has increased. So, we're really looking forward to him stacking another good year.
Alex Smith, P
Veteran punter Alex Smith returns for his fourth season and has continued to solidify his role as a leader within the specialists room. His experience and strong leg give the Eagles a reliable presence in the kicking game.
He's coming back for his fourth year, Wilson said. Looking to continue the success he's had, and he's been a leader in the room all year, in the spring and through fall camp.
With fall camp in the books, the Eagles turn their attention toward the regular season, with the work put in throughout the summer and camp setting the foundation for the 2026 campaign.
