Georgia State closed the 2025 campaign with a 1-11 record, a season that drained much of the enthusiasm surrounding the program. But an offseason influx of transfers and freshmen breathed new life into the Panthers, bringing a renewed sense of optimism heading into 2026.
On a hot night at Atlanta’s Center Parc Stadium, that optimism had its first chance to take shape.
The talent on the visiting North Carolina A&T sideline couldn’t match the revamped Panthers, who were eager to prove that the offseason hype was warranted. Six different Georgia State players scored rushing touchdowns as the Panthers overwhelmed the Aggies, 59-10.
Facing an FCS opponent was hardly a definitive measuring stick. Still, the celebration that followed felt more like a conference championship had been clinched than a season opener had been won. Players and fans lingered on the field, soaking in the moment and singing the traditional “Georgia (State) On My Mind.”
With one victory, Georgia State had already matched its win total from the previous season. For the first time in a while, hope was beginning to creep back into the program.
