An 80-yard touchdown should never land in front of an empty end zone, and that moment becomes our jumping-off point for a bigger conversation about Arkansas State, Jonesboro, and what it really takes to build momentum. We sit down with Ted Herget, founder of Gearhead Outfitters and proud A-State alum, and Davy Carter, former Arkansas Speaker of the House and regional president at Centennial Bank, to talk about how fandom grows up with you and why “our school” hits harder the older you get.
We dig into what’s changed around Arkansas State University, from the look and feel of Centennial Bank Stadium to the broader growth of Jonesboro, Arkansas. Then we get honest about what drives winning: expectations, leadership, and a community that buys in even when it’s easier to stay home and stream. Ted and Davy share what they’ve learned from supporting the Red Wolves through their businesses, why the scarlet and black brand travels, and how a loud crowd can change the way a team plays.
Tailgating and the Alpha Pack concept take center stage as we break down how to turn a game into an event, lower the barrier for first-timers, and create the kind of FOMO that fills seats. We also touch on the NIL and revenue-sharing era, why culture still matters, and how stability under Coach Butch Jones is reshaping Arkansas State football.
If you care about Red Wolves football, Sun Belt Conference pride, or the future of college sports in a true college town, this one’s for you.Subscribe, share with a friend who needs a nudge to show up, and leave a review so more people find Saturdays in Jonesboro. @Arkansasstatemedianetwork
More About this Episode
Saturdays in Jonesboro: A Deep Dive into Red Wolf Passion, Business, and Game Day Culture
In a new episode of the Saturdays in Jonesboro podcast, Matt Stolz, the veteran play-by-play voice of the Arkansas State Red Wolves, explored the symbiotic relationship between the university, the city, and the fans.
Joining him were two of A-State’s most fervent supporters: Ted Herget, founder of Gearhead Outfitters, and Davy Carter, regional president of Centennial Bank and former Arkansas Speaker of the House.
The conversation went beyond the scoreboard, detailing how a shared vision of leadership and community investment has turned Jonesboro into one of the most vibrant "moments" in college athletics today.
The Evolution of a Legacy
For Herget and Carter, their passion for Arkansas State isn't just a hobby; it’s in their DNA.
Herget’s connection traces back to his grandfather, Ted Rand, who started KASU, the university's radio station. Growing up on the campus track and attending games during the legendary Flo-Jo era, Herget has watched the school transform from Arkansas State College to the university it is today.
Carter’s appreciation matured over time. A traditional student who found his footing later in his college career, he realized that the university is the economic and cultural engine of Northeast Arkansas.
Parallel Growth: Campus and Community
Stolz, now in his 21st season, remarked on the physical transformation of Jonesboro. The growth of the city has mirrored the expansion of the university:
- Centennial Bank Stadium: Now boasting a state-of-the-art North End Zone facility and the Centennial Bank Operations Center, it stands as a premier venue in the Group of Five.
- The Embassy Suites & Convention Center: Built on the site of an old track, this facility provides a professional infrastructure that outclasses many of A-State's Sun Belt peers.
- Business Synergy: From Gearhead Outfitters expanding to 20 locations across seven states to Centennial Bank’s deep roots in the stadium’s identity, the "Red Wolf brand" is now a visual staple of Red Wolf Boulevard.
The Butch Jones Era: A Culture Turnaround
A significant portion of the discussion focused on the "CEO-style" leadership of Head Coach Butch Jones. Herget and Carter, both successful businessmen, expressed deep respect for Jones’s management of the program.
The group recalled the difficult state of the program when Jones first arrived; a period defined by cultural apathy. Today, the atmosphere in the football facility has undergone a 180-degree turn. Stolz noted that the building is now filled with people the community wants to root for.
What Makes the Practice Unique?
- The Microphone: Jones is famous for coaching via a loudspeaker, creating an intense, entertaining, and highly disciplined environment.
- Stability in Chaos: Despite the volatility of the transfer portal and NIL, Jones provides a stable system that prioritizes player development and NFL aspirations.
- High Expectations: The goal isn't just to play; it’s to reclaim A-State's status as the "Gold Standard" of the Sun Belt Conference.
Alpha Pack: Redefining the Tailgate Experience
To combat the ease of streaming games at home, Herget and Carter co-founded the Alpha Pack. The goal was simple: turn the game into a "can't-miss" social event.
Inspired by the atmosphere at Kansas City’s Arrowhead Stadium, the Alpha Pack provides a turnkey tailgate experience. By offering live music, great food, and cold beverages, they’ve created a party that attracts people who may have never attended an A-State game before.
Large local employers like Hytrol have bought in, using tickets as rewards for their staff, which expands the Red Wolves' network into the local blue-collar workforce.
The Power of Showing Up
The podcast concluded with a challenge to the fan base. Carter pointed out that with only six home games a year, the demand for support is minimal compared to the 24/7 effort the student-athletes put in.
Herget insisted his team works harder when the crowd is louder. Whether it’s 90 degrees or below freezing, the live experience cannot be replicated by a screen.
As the Red Wolves head toward the 2026 season, the message from Jonesboro is clear: the results on the field are driven by the energy in the stands.
For more stories on Red Wolves athletics and the Jonesboro community, subscribe to the Saturdays in Jonesboro podcast on the Arkansas State Media Network.