Who: Georgia State at New Mexico State
When: 8 p.m. Saturday
Three things to know
1. Georgia State committed three turnovers in the first quarter of last week's 23-20 loss to Charlotte, but still finished with a plus-2 margin because safety Bobby Baker intercepted two passes and recovered three fumbles. Those were part of nine impact plays by the defense, which also had four sacks. Creating turnovers and sacks were rarities last year.
2. New Mexico State was throttled by Florida 61-13, and its bus was broken into during the game. The Aggies defeated the Panthers at the Georgia Dome last year on a touchdown in the game's final minute, completing a 17-point rally.
3. Donovan Harden may return for the Panthers. The leading receiver last year, Harden has missed the past three weeks after suffering a broken bone in his foot while participating in a non-contact drill. Harden's return, with the improving health of tight end Joel Ruiz, could spark a passing game that didn't get going until the fourth quarter last week.
Player to watch, Georgia State offense
RB Taz Bateman. Bateman showed flashes of his speed and vision while leading the Panthers with 61 rushing yards and added 37 receiving yards and a touchdown in the opening game. He was the only Georgia State running back who consistently got past the defensive line.
Player to watch, Georgia State defense
S Bobby Baker. Baker had five takeaways last week, intercepting two passes and recovering three fumbles. It's a pace that is impossible to maintain, but he can still affect the game in other ways.
Player to watch, New Mexico State offense
RB Larry Rose. He rushed for 1,102 yards with nine touchdowns on 186 carries last season. He will run behind a line that returns four starters. He had 12 carries for 64 yards and a touchdown last week.
Player to watch, New Mexico State defense
LB Rodney Butler. He led the Aggies with 119 tackles last season. He had five tackles, including one for a loss, against GSU.
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