As Week 8 of the 2025 regular season unfolds, the Georgia State Panthers travel to Allen E. Paulson Stadium to face the Georgia Southern Eagles. The game is scheduled for Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 7:00 PM and will be broadcast on ESPN+. Both teams are part of the Sun Belt conference, setting the stage for a competitive evening. Georgia State enters the game with a 1-5 record, struggling particularly on the road with a 0-2 record. Their recent performance includes a 41-20 loss to Appalachian State, where they managed 303 passing yards but only 54 rushing yards. Fumbles have been a concern, with three recorded in that game alone. The Georgia Southern Eagles, at 2-4, have fared better at home, securing a 2-1 record at Allen E. Paulson Stadium. Despite their recent 38-35 home loss to Southern Miss, the Eagles showcased a strong passing game with 313 yards. The Eagles are favored with a -6.5 spread and a moneyline of -254 against the Panthers.
Georgia Southern vs Georgia State At a Glance
- Game Details: Georgia State Panthers vs Georgia Southern Eagles in Week 8 of the 2025 Regular Season.
- Location: Allen E. Paulson Stadium, Statesboro, GA – Outdoor Field.
- Broadcast: Available on ESPN+ at 7:00 PM on October 18, 2025.
- Records: Georgia State Panthers stand at 1-5, while Georgia Southern Eagles are 2-4 this season.
- Conference: Both teams are part of the Sun Belt Conference.
- Odds: Georgia Southern is favored with a moneyline of -254, while Georgia State’s moneyline is +206.
Georgia Southern Eagles: A Road Challenge Awaits
Offensive Overview
Georgia Southern’s offense has put up 165 points this season, ranking 53rd nationally. Their passing game has been a significant part of their strategy with 1,372 yards, landing them 65th in the rankings. However, the rushing game has lagged behind, accumulating 767 yards, placing them at 95th.
The Eagles’ ability to move the chains is evident with 125 first downs, ranking 34th. This demonstrates their effectiveness in maintaining possession and extending drives. Quarterback JC French IV has been pivotal, with 1,259 passing yards and 9 touchdowns in six games.
Defensive Struggles
Defensively, Georgia Southern has faced challenges, allowing 225 points, which ranks them 124th. However, they have been proactive in creating turnovers with 4 interceptions and 4 fumbles recovered, both ranked 5th. Their pass rush has also been effective, tallying 5 sacks, which ranks 21st.
The Eagles’ defense will need to tighten up to counteract their opponents’ offensive strategies. Their ability to create turnovers will be crucial in shifting momentum in games.
Recent Performance
The recent game against Southern Miss resulted in a narrow 38-35 loss, despite outpassing their opponent with 313 yards. This marks their third loss this season, highlighting the need for defensive improvements. Previously, they suffered a substantial defeat to James Madison, losing 35-10, where they were significantly outgained on the ground.
Wins against Maine (45-17) and Jacksonville State (41-34) showcased their offensive potential. Consistency remains a focal point as they aim to build on these performances.
Key Players to Watch
Camden Brown has been a standout receiver with 32 receptions for 550 yards and 6 touchdowns. His ability to stretch the field is a valuable asset for the Eagles. Running back OJ Arnold leads the ground game with 365 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns.
On the defensive side, maintaining pressure and forcing turnovers will be key, with several players contributing to their 5th-ranked interception and fumble recovery stats.
Injury Report
The Eagles have several players listed as questionable, including key contributors like Caelan Williams (OL) and River Helms (TE). The status of these players could impact their game plan and performance.
Depth will be tested as they navigate these injury concerns, making contributions from less experienced players essential.
Betting Trends
- SU – As Favorite: 21-4 in last 25 games.
- ATS – As Favorite: 3-0 in last 3 games.
- O/U – Home Games: 3-0 in last 3 games.
- O/U – After Loss: 3-0 in last 3 games.
- SU – Home Games: 12-4 in last 16 games.
Georgia State Panthers Prepare for Upcoming Battle with the Eagles
Offensive Struggles
The Georgia State Panthers’ offense has faced challenges this season, ranking 85th in points scored with just 108 points. Their passing game shows more promise, securing the 55th spot with 1,470 yards, while the rushing attack lags at 125th with 534 yards.
Despite the offensive hurdles, the Panthers have managed to earn 103 first downs, placing them 55th in the national rankings. This suggests they can maintain some level of offensive consistency but struggle to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
Defensive Shortcomings
Defensively, the Panthers have been porous, allowing 247 points, ranking them near the bottom at 128th. However, they excel in turnovers, boasting a 3rd rank with 2 interceptions and an 8th rank with one fumble recovery.
Their pass rush has been relatively effective, recording 7 sacks which places them 19th nationally. This demonstrates their ability to pressure the quarterback despite their overall defensive struggles.
Recent Game Performances
In recent games, the Panthers faced a tough stretch, with losses against Appalachian State (41-20), James Madison (14-7), and Vanderbilt (70-21). The lone bright spot was a victory over Murray State, where they won 37-21.
Their most recent outing against Appalachian State showed some offensive spark with 303 passing yards but was overshadowed by a weak rushing game that only produced 54 yards.
Injury Concerns
The Panthers’ injury report lists several key players as questionable, including defensive tackle Henry Bryant and cornerback Isaiah Dunson. The uncertainty surrounding their availability could further complicate their defensive efforts.
Offensively, the potential absence of running back Ladainnian Martin may impact their already struggling ground game, putting additional pressure on their passing attack.
Betting Trends
- O/U – After Win: Last 5 Games (2023–2025) → 5-0 (100.0%)
- O/U – Away Games: Last 3 Games (2024–2025) → 3-0 (100.0%)
- SU – As Favorite: Last 26 Games (2020–2025) → 17-9 (65.4%)
- O/U – As Underdog: Last 11 Games (2024–2025) → 7-3-1 (63.6%)
- ATS – Away Games: Last 29 Games (2020–2025) → 17-12 (58.6%)
Georgia Southern vs Georgia State Prediction: Georgia Southern -6.5
Georgia Southern enters this game as a 6.5-point favorite, and their strong home record of 2-1 this season suggests they have a solid chance of covering the spread. Their success as a favorite, with a 21-4 record in the last 25 games, further supports this pick.
Georgia State’s road struggles are apparent with a 0-2 record, and their defense ranks poorly, allowing 247 points this season (128th in the nation). This could spell trouble against a Georgia Southern offense that ranks 53rd in points scored with 165 points.
With Georgia Southern’s consistent performance against the spread as a favorite, going 3-0 in their last three games, they seem poised to maintain this trend. Additionally, their strong ATS record at home (18-11 over the last 29 games) boosts confidence in their ability to cover.
Projected final score: Georgia Southern 38, Georgia State 27. Georgia Southern’s offensive output combined with Georgia State’s defensive vulnerabilities should result in a win that covers the spread.
- Georgia Southern vs Georgia State Prediction: Georgia Southern -6.5
- Georgia Southern vs Georgia State Score: Georgia Southern 38 – Georgia State 27
