The game that was
By no means was it a complete game, but Georgia State finished its disappointing season with a 42-35 victory over Campbell. The Panthers (3-8) for once kept a win from slipping away in the fourth quarter.
What we learned
1. The offense ended well. The Panthers set numerous school records, including total yards (514) and rushing yards (301). The new mark broke the old mark of 447, set just last week. Quarterback Kelton Hill looked more comfortable running the offense, passing for 213 yards and four touchdowns and rushing for another. Donald Russell eschewed his one-cut style and bounced around more looking for creases the result was a game-high 146 yards.
2. The defense did not end well. The Camels came back from 21 points down in the fourth quarter to pull within a touchdown. At times they scored too easily, including the game's opening drive. Coach Bill Curry said the defense must learn how to stop opponents.
3. Neither did the special teams. The Panthers opened the game by kicking the ball out of bounds, and followed it by missing two field goals, giving them nine misses in their final 11 attempts.
Injury report
No serious injuries were reported by Georgia State.
Numbers game
6
The Panthers averaged 6 yards per carry on 50 rushing attempts.
Sound bite
"We are very dissatisfied with the season as we all are, but we'll go back to work right away and get to work on our academics, recruiting. We've got many things to improve on in our program and I'm really anxious to do that."
-- Coach Bill Curry
Loose ends
Danny Williams caught four passes, extending his streak to 22 consecutive games. … Georgia State had 27 first downs, a school record.
What's next
Georgia State enters its offseason with many questions before CAA play starts next year. The starting offensive line must replace four seniors. The quarterback position is deep, which may result in position changes or transfers. The Panthers must find a dependable kicker. They need to get consistent production from the defensive line. There's a lot of work ahead.
Doug Roberson
