Two Seasons, Two Stories
Southern Miss is reminding its fans of the dramatic contrast between the 2010 and 2015 football campaigns, a comparison that highlights how quickly a program can shift from rebuilding to contention.
The 2015 campaign finished at 9‑5, earning a spot as Conference USA Runner‑Up. Quarterback Nick Mullens led a high‑powered offense that featured running backs Ito Smith and Kalan Reed, and the team celebrated signature victories over Rice (65‑10) and Louisiana Tech (58‑24).
Eight years earlier, the 2010 squad posted an 8‑5 record but saw its season end with a loss in the Beef ‘O Brady’s Bowl to Louisville. The team included quarterback Austin Davis and playmakers DeAndre Brown and Khryi Thornton, who helped secure wins against Kansas (31‑16) and No. 25 UCF (31‑21).
Both seasons showcased standout talent on opposite sides of the field, with the 2015 offense built around Mullens, Smith and Reed, while the 2010 unit leaned on Davis, Brown and Thornton. The differing outcomes also reflect the evolution of the program over the ensuing years.
Fans are now invited to weigh in on which era they prefer. The Southern Miss Golden Eagles On SI Facebook page hosts the poll, encouraging alumni, students, and community members to share their memories and vote for the season they’d rather relive.