Southern Miss football was in the national spotlight Thursday night as the Golden Eagles hosted James Madison at Renasant Stadium in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. After putting up an extremely competitive first half, the Golden Eagles ultimately fell to the Dukes, 54-23.

From the plays and players on the field to the energy in the stands, The Rock was truly rocking in the first half of the game. Unfortunately, it was a tale of two halves.

As one of the photographers capturing content for Southern Miss Golden Eagles On SI, it’s always fun to look back at some of the key moments from the matchup. Below are some of the best action shots I was able to capture from Thursday night.

Pregame Focus

Southern Miss senior wide receiver Grant Page (13) carries the football during pregame warmups ahead of the Golden Eagles’ matchup against James Madison.

Through The Smoke

Southern Miss junior wide receiver Kaden Saunders (7) runs onto the field surrounded by smoke during the Golden Eagles’ pregame entrance ahead of their matchup against James Madison.

Opening Kickoff

James Madison sophomore wide receiver Michael Scott (17) returns the opening kickoff as Southern Miss defenders pursue.

Showing Up & Showing Out

The Southern Miss student section showed up and showed out Thursday night, bringing the energy and school spirit as the Golden Eagles hosted James Madison at Renasant Stadium in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, on Nov. 5, 2026.

Battling For The Catch

Southern Miss redshirt junior wide receiver MJ Johnson (3) battles a James Madison defender while attempting to secure a pass. The play resulted in a penalty against the Dukes.

Making Something Happen

Southern Miss redshirt sophomore quarterback John White (14) scrambles for extra yardage. White earned his first start of the season on Thursday night against JMU.

Celebrating Six

Southern Miss quarterback John White (12) celebrates with teammates following a quarterback keeper for a touchdown.

On The Move

James Madison quarterback JC Evans (1) scrambles for yardage against the Golden Eagles' defense.

Chasing Down The Qaurterback

Southern Miss redshirt junior linebacker Mathis Haygood (13) wraps up James Madison quarterback JC Evans (1).

Securing The Catch

Southern Miss junior wide receiver Kaden Saunders (7) hauls in a pass over James Madison sophomore cornerback DJ Kelly (6).

Making His Presence Felt

Southern Miss junior defensive back Landon Sylvie (25) celebrates a defensive play.

Bracing For Impact

Southern Miss redshirt junior running back Steven Robinson (14) braces for contact as James Madison safety Terrence Jones (25) closes in.

Contact Before The Catch

Southern Miss senior tight end Jeremiah Beck Jr. (88) reaches for a pass while being held by James Madison junior edge rusher Turner Schmidt (98), resulting in a pass interference penalty.

Robinson Powers Into The End Zone

Southern Miss redshirt junior running back Steven Robinson (14) fights through a crowd of James Madison defenders to score a touchdown.

Open Space For Six

James Madison running back Jackson McCarter (21) breaks into open space on his way to a touchdown, leaving Southern Miss defenders.

More Than Just A Game

Southern Miss football players stand together on the field, facing the Pride of Mississippi Marching Band in the stands following the game.

Vote For Photo Of The Game

Now it’s your turn. Out of the photos we posted from the Southern Miss vs. James Madison game, which is your favorite? We want to hear from you. Vote for your favorite in the replies section of our post on Facebook, Instagram, or X.