Five Golden Eagles Earn All–Sun Belt Honors

By: Luke Matheson

As Southern Miss turns its attention toward the New Orleans Bowl and begins its first week of preparations under newly named head coach Blake Anderson, five Golden Eagles have earned All–Sun Belt honors from Pro Football & Sports Network — a reflection of the talent powering the team into postseason play.

Two players earned First Team recognition, while three others secured Second Team honors, giving Southern Miss a strong presence across both sides of the ball.

First Team Honorees

Josh Moten – Defensive Back

Moten has been one of the most dependable members of the Golden Eagles’ secondary, frequently matching up against opponents’ top receivers and delivering consistent, physical coverage. His ability to break up passes, limit explosive plays and provide leadership on the back end anchored a defense that showed major improvement down the stretch of the season. Moten’s play helped Southern Miss surge into bowl eligibility.

J’Mond Tapp – Defensive Lineman

Tapp emerged as one of the league’s most disruptive edge defenders, regularly collapsing pockets and forcing quarterbacks off script. His pressure was a key part of the Golden Eagles’ defensive resurgence, as he became a constant problem for opposing offensive lines. With his combination of speed and power, Tapp enters the New Orleans Bowl as one of the top defensive players to watch.

Second Team Honorees

Chris Jones– Linebacker

Jones was the centerpiece of the Southern Miss linebacker corps, providing steady run support and reliable pursuit sideline to sideline. His instincts and ability to read offensive schemes made him one of the team’s most productive tacklers, and his consistency set the tone for the front seven all season long.

Ian Foster – Defensive Back

Foster continued to elevate his game, contributing strong coverage skills and timely defensive plays that helped Southern Miss swing momentum in several close contests. His versatility — with the ability to defend the slot, help in run support and play deep coverage — made him an essential part of the defensive game plan every week.

Brodarius Lewis – Defensive Lineman

Lewis was a cornerstone of the Golden Eagles’ defensive front, providing the stability and physicality needed to fuel the team’s dramatic turnaround. His work in the trenches anchored a much improved pass rush— progress that will be critical as Southern Miss prepares for its bowl matchup.

The All–Sun Belt honors come at a pivotal moment for Southern Miss football. With Blake Anderson officially taking over the program, the Golden Eagles are preparing for the New Orleans Bowl with renewed energy and direction.

Anderson, known for his fast-paced offenses and track record of developing talent, praised the team’s resilience and the standout performances that led to postseason recognition.

These five honorees are expected to play key roles in the bowl preparation process as Southern Miss aims to cap the season with a victory and launch the Anderson era on a high note.

The Golden Eagles will continue full-practice preparations this week as they get ready for their trip to New Orleans.