Atlanta Panthers Gear Up to Face Vanderbilt in Exciting Matchup!
Atlanta, GA – The Georgia State Panthers are riding high after their heart-pounding win against Chattanooga, and they’re ready to keep the momentum going! This Saturday, September 14, at 7:00 PM, they’ll host Vanderbilt at Center Parc Credit Union Stadium, and excitement is in the air!
Home Opener Highlights
In their recent home opener, the Panthers came out on top with a nail-biting score of 24-21. For head coach Dell McGee, this victory was especially sweet as it marked not just his first win at the helm of Georgia State, but he also celebrated his birthday on this memorable day! Talk about a double celebration!
A Unique Meeting
Interestingly, this clash with Vanderbilt holds the title of being the very first matchup in program history. It’s the kickoff of a home-and-home series where the Panthers will first defend their home turf and then head to Nashville for the second game in 2025. The fans are buzzing with anticipation as they prepare to welcome a Power 5 competitor!
Facing Off Against Power 5 Opponents
This will not be the first time Georgia State faces a Power 5 team, as this marks their 18th game against such opponents. The excitement builds as this season will feature two matchups against Power 5 teams, something that hasn’t happened this often in recent years. Historically, the Panthers have dabbled in some intense competition and can look back fondly on their 2019 win over Tennessee. That game saw Georgia State snatch victory from the jaws of defeat, coming back strong to claim a thrilling 38-30 triumph.
Key Players to Watch
While there are many fresh faces on the team, several key veterans remain crucial to the Panthers’ gameplay. Keep an eye out for
- Freddie Brock, who leads the Panthers with an impressive 152 all-purpose yards, including 134 receiving yards. He’s made a splash this season with his stellar performance!
- Justin Abraham, a senior linebacker, leads the defense with remarkable stats, showing promise as he recorded a sack and tackled for losses in the previous game.
- Gavin Pringle, shining as a cornerback, is tied for fourth in the team with eight tackles and leads the conference in interceptions right now!
New Faces and Fresh Talent
This season, the Panthers added 54 newcomers, with 48 of them being transfers. Notably, Ted Hurst stands out as the top receiver after his strong showing against Chattanooga, while Jordan Ford has become a steady kick returner, adding more excitement and depth to the team.
The Journey of Coach Dell McGee
Dell McGee isn’t just another coach; he’s making history as he navigates his first full-time head coaching role. He’s worked alongside national champions and is now taking the reins of a football program that’s seen growth over its relatively short tenure. The Panthers have already participated in six bowl games since their inception! With a solid coaching staff of 15 new faces, the fresh energy permeates through the entire program.
Looking Ahead
This match against Vanderbilt is one for the books and the atmosphere promises to be electric! The fans are gearing up to support their team with the hopes of clinching another memorable win. And who knows, maybe this will mark a historic moment as Georgia State seeks its second victory over a Power 5 opponent!
As the countdown to kick-off continues, the excitement builds in Atlanta for what promises to be a thrilling evening of college football!
