Georgia State safety Bobby Baker was named the Sun Belt Conference’s defensive player of the week after having five takeaways in the Panthers’ 23-20 loss to Charlotte last week.

Baker, a junior who transferred from UAB, had two interceptions and receovered three fumbles. The NCAA has been asked if the five takeaways are a record.

Baker is the first player in school history to have more than two takeaways in a game.

The Panthers will play at New Mexico State on Saturday.

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Former Atlanta Journal-Constitution reporter Norman Arey died Oct. 11, 2025 at the age of 84. In addition to sports writing, Arey also co-wrote the popular "Peach Buzz" society column. (Courtesy of the Arey family)

Credit: Courtesy of the Arey family

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Members of the conversion crew take a break as the main scoreboard is lowered to the floor to be worked on as the arena gets ready for the next concert at State Farm Arena, Thursday, October 2, 2025, in Atlanta. The crew was working on creating a stage for the Friday, Oct. 3 Maxwell concert. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason Getz / Jason.Getz@ajc.com