Georgia State drops conference opener to App State, 17-3

Georgia State opened up Sun Belt play Saturday in Boone, NC at App State. They came in to the games winless at 0-3 and was coming off a bye week heading into this game.

Saturday’s game was a defensive one to say the least, as both teams were scoreless entering the half. The Mountaineers took a 7-0 lead on a 13-yard touchdown run in the 3rd. In the 4th App State tacked on a field goal before the Georgia State Panthers kicked a field goal to make it 10-3. The Mountaineers added a touchdown late to make the final 17-3.

The Panthers defense played well in the first half, it was bend don’t break mentality. The defense only gave up 143 yards through the air, but got beat on the ground as the Mountaineers racked up 218 yards on the ground. They only allowed 17 points and played well enough to keep themselves in the game.

More from ATL All Day

• Atlanta Braves: Felix Has Already Shown Enough to Win a Rotation Spot
• Atlanta Braves Implode Late To Phillies, Cole Hamels Remains Sidelined
• Kyle Wright Shines As Folty Struggles In Atlanta Braves Loss To Red Sox
• Atlanta Hawks Sweep Back-to-Back Games Over Weekend
• Atlanta Braves: Grapefruit League Play Check Up

Additionally, the offense struggled again in this game with only 241 yards. In order to be successful, the Panthers are going to have establish a run game to set the foundation for the pass game. Connor Manning had a rough day throwing four interceptions. Also with out establishing this run game,  more pressure is thrust upon the Panthers young quarterback. A young quarterback needs an established run game to take some of the pressure off of him.

However, there was a milestone worth mentioning for the Panthers in this game. Senior wide receiver, Robert Davis, had five catches Saturday that put him at 1st all time in catches in program history. He passed, with his 179th reception, former Panther and current Kansas City Chief Albert Wilson.

All in all, Georgia State has shown at times, that they are better than their record indicates (the Wisconsin game). The Panthers can play well and will figure this out. They have the talent and coaching to play well. As Connor Manning continues to develop, the Panthers will begin to see more success.

Next: Atlanta Braves: Players They Should Add for 2017

Georgia State returns home against Texas State, to see if they can get one in the win column. Kickoff is set for 3:30 pm EST and can be seen on ESPN3.