The Sun Belt Conference kicks off its first full week of divisional battles with a massive test for Georgia State. The Panthers hold the best offense in the league, averaging 468.3 yards per game. They face a 1-3 Old Dominion team that just lost 46-20 to reigning champion James Madison. This game gives Georgia State a chance to open conference play 1-0, while Old Dominion tries to avoid an 0-2 Sun Belt start.
Old Dominion Faces a Monster Test
Old Dominion coach Ricky Rahne knows exactly what is waiting for his team. He told reporters, “We’re playing a very talented team in Georgia State.” The Monarchs need to fix their defense fast or they will get crushed. Rahne admitted his squad has work to do, saying, “They’re a very confident team right now, and coach McGee has done a tremendous job. Those guys are playing good football right now. We’re excited for the opportunity, and we have to be better.” That admission sounds like a team that is already behind the eight ball.
After securing only one win to close out the previous season, Georgia State begins this week holding a 3-1 record. They are riding high while their opponent struggles to find answers. The stats do not lie. Georgia State moves the ball better than anyone else in the conference. If Old Dominion cannot stop the run or cover the receivers, the game will be over by halftime. The pressure is on the Monarchs to prove they belong in this league.
McGee Demands Better Standards
Georgia State coach Dell McGee is not happy with just having a good offense. He wants his team to be perfect in conference play. McGee stated, “We’ve got to do better as we open Sun Belt play. These games mean more. Ricky has done an outstanding job, and his team will be well-prepared.” He also warned, “We’re expecting their best while we prepare to do better.” That is a clear message to his players that past success does not guarantee future wins.
The Panthers have to prove they can win big games against good opponents. They are not just here to fill out the schedule. The team is still learning how to close out tight contests. As the team notes, they are “Still learning how to win and do the things necessary to win rivalries and against good opponents.” This Week 5 matchup is the first real chance to show they have grown up.
West Coast Chaos and Other Battles
While Georgia State fights on, Coastal Carolina and Georgia Southern both enter the week at 1-3. Both teams average over 260 passing yards per game. Georgia Southern coach Clay Helton believes his nonconference schedule prepared them well. He said, “I think our nonconference schedule has prepared us well with the quality of teams we have faced.” But Coastal Carolina coach Ryan Beard sees holes in his team’s game. He noted, “Penalties. You cannot have 15 for over 100 yards and expect to win.” Discipline will decide the winner in that matchup…