Georgia Southern started the season at No. 109 but has surged all the way up to No. 40 in the final regular season CBS Sports poll.

At 9-3, the Eagles are the second highest ranked Sun Belt team, with East division champ Appalachian State at No. 32. Troy checks in at No. 47 following their 21-10 loss to the Mountaineers Saturday.

GS is the 10th highest ranked “Group of 5” team and is one spot behind Buffalo, a team that many say the Eagles will face in a future bowl game.

The Eagles also received a vote in the USA Today coaches poll.

McClain Baxley, The George-Anne Sports Editor, gasports@georgiasouthern.edu