Football looks to right ship against Murray State

After two disappointing losses on the road to Jacksonville State and Houston, Georgia State will return home on Oct. 8 to square off against the Murray State Racers. Last Friday, the Murray State Racers received a pep talk from legendary Georgia running back, Herschel Walker. The Racers football team won't be seeing a running back of that caliber in Georgia State's backfield.

This game will be about the quarterbacks. In its second season, the Panthers offense has yet to develop a consistent rushing attack. Starting running backs Donald Russell and Travis Evans are averaging only 56.2 and 41.0 yards per game, respectively. Conversely, Murray State running back Mike Harris is averaging only 71 yards per game in limited carries but also contributes as a receiver out of the backfield. Whoever starts at quarterback for the Panthers will have to challenge Murray State's depleted secondary, which includes senior wide receiver, Dexter Barnett. Barnett, who is third on the depth chart at receiver, has been forced to play both ways due to injuries at cornerback.

The Georgia State secondary will be tested by Murray State's passing attack led by junior quarterback Casey Brockman. Although Brockman is not recognized as highly as Houston‘s Case Keenum, he is almost as dangerous throwing the ball. The Racers also spread the ball around to six or seven different receivers and running backs. In the Racers' home opener against Tennessee State, Brockman threw for 600 yards and seven touchdowns while shattering multiple conference records. Last week, Brockman threw for 421 yards and two touchdowns in a loss to Jacksonville State.

The key will be to push Brockman out of the pocket, force turnovers and convert touchdowns on offense. Offensively, the Panther must find a balance between run and pass. Running the ball effectively on first downs will be key. If Georgia State can convert first downs and keep the defense fresh, they will be competitive enough to snap their three game losing skid. If Georgia State wins, the victory will give the team some much needed momentum after a slow start.