Beyond the Field: How A-State Fuels Jonesboro’s Growth with Davy Carter and Ted Herget

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. @Arkansasstatemedianetwork0:00 - Welcome To Saturdays In Jonesboro3:04 - Where Their Red Wolves Passion Started4:14 - Campus Growth Fuels City Growth12:55 - Business Support And Brand Pride16:21 - Coaching Leadership And Program Standards17:03 - Why Being There Beats Streaming22:48 - Alpha Pack And Tailgate FOMO28:06 - Turning Games Into Must-Go Events35:11 - NIL Changes And Sun Belt Identity37:23 - A North End Zone Game Day44:17 - Meet The Team Events To Attend49:13 - Culture Turnaround Under Butch Jones52:03 - Subscribe And Closing Thanks