In a nonconference series that has gained traction across the past decade, Charlotte and Georgia State are set to face off for the fifth time in nine years as the Panthers come to Jerry Richardson Stadium on Saturday night.
The Panthers are looking to avenge a one-point loss to the 49ers last season and move to 3-0 on the year, while the Niners are attempting to get a bounce-back win after a road loss at Maryland last weekend. Without Chris Reynolds — who threw five touchdowns against Georgia State in 2022 — the Niners are hoping for their new weapons to emerge.
The Game
Georgia State at Charlotte
Charlotte
6 p.m., ESPN+
Records
Charlotte: 1-1 (0-0 AAC)
Georgia State: 2-0 (0-0 Sun Belt)
Head-to-head
The teams are 2-2 all-time following the 49ers’ 42-41 victory last season
Players to Watch
Charlotte wide receiver Jairus Mack: The sophomore wideout had the best performance of his career last weekend when he totaled 106 yards and a touchdown on four catches. Given Charlotte’s limited passing attack and continued emphasis on running the ball, Mack has an opportunity to emerge as a playmaker among the receivers.
Georgia State quarterback Darren Grainger: Grainger was 15 of 26 for 144 yards and a touchdown in the Panthers’ win over UConn last week. The redshirt senior also carried the ball a dozen times for a team-high 142 yards. The Niners will have to handle the dual-threat quarterback to slow the Panthers’ offense.
Odds
Betonline.ag: Georgia State -7.5, over/under 51.5
