THREE STORYLINES

How long can Georgia State keep it close? The Panthers had a chance to get within a score of West Virginia in the third quarter of their game three weeks ago. To do that against Alabama would require an ability to contain a running attack that has averaged 162.5 yards per game this season by a defense that has allowed 218.2 yards per game.

Will the offensive line improve? Quarterback Ronnie Bell has taken some big hits in the past few games. The line should be helped by the return of senior Grant King at tackle, which will push A.J. Kaplan over a spot to guard, which is his natural position. The Panthers have given up nine sacks this season. Alabama has produced five.

Can the special teams limit big plays? The group has improved from the Week 1 debacle. This week, coach Trent Miles said kicker Wil Lutz and punter Matt Hubbard must hit their spots to keep Christion Jones from a chance at his second kickoff return for a touchdown and second punt return for a touchdown this season.

MATCHUP TO WATCH

Georgia State vs. history. Georgia State is at least a 50-point underdog, depending upon which line you review. No Panthers team has knocked off a top-ranked team. Georgia State is 0-4 against FBS teams in its short history and has been outscored in those games 211-27, including 63-7 to Alabama in 2010.

TWEETS OF THE WEEK

Not surprising, not many people would want to spend time & money to see that beatdown. — ‏@GenuisMcDoogle (Panthers fan). This was in response to the tweet: @gsupanthers returned to @rolltide 2014 of 3000 tickets by ‏@ajcgsu