Georgia State (5-2) is off to the best start in program history. The early season success has not only captivated those on campus but former players as well.
Former Georgia State linebacker Nate Paxton is one of those alumni who sees the fruits of the program’s labor paying off. Paxton played in the early days of the football program, back when the Panthers called the former Georgia Dome home.
From 2012-16, Paxton was a mainstay in the team’s defensive unit and was part of the program’s early footsteps. Since graduating, he has stayed close to his alma mater and the recent success of the team does not surprise him.
“I wasn’t surprised when [Georgia State] beat Tennessee,” Paxton said. “Coach Elliot brought in a culture change, and the guys have responded with wins.”
Paxton attributes the recent culture shift with the team’s new stomping ground, Georgia State Stadium. During Paxton’s playing days in the Georgia Dome, there was a sharp contrast in the overall fan engagement and experience than today.
“When we played at the Dome, we always knew it was the Falcons’ place,” Paxton said. “But seeing the school get Turner just makes [Georgia State] bigger for fans.”
The acquisition of Turner Field seems to have boosted morale around the school. This season, the Panthers currently sit fifth overall in attendance in the Sun Belt. Georgia State’s purchase of Turner Field may go down as one of the best pieces of business in school history, as it has given the football program more recognition.
One of the biggest aspects that has impressed Paxton has been on the offensive side of the ball. The Panthers offense leads the Sun Belt conference in first downs and is second in several other offensive categories.
“My MVP would be Dan Ellington,” Paxton said. “He’s got that offense firing on all cylinders and hasn’t let up yet.”
Current Saints kicker Wil Lutz is also excited about the start his alma mater has strung together. Lutz kicked for the Panthers from 2012-15 and was second-team All-Sun Belt punter in his final year at Georgia State.
“It’s definitely exciting we’re [5-2] and the future is very bright for the program at [Georgia] State,” Lutz said.
Georgia State’s upcoming games will be tough. A looming matchup against the nationally-ranked Appalachian State Mountaineers could be a key in crowning a conference champion.
“[Georgia State] got a big win on Homecoming, and I hope they can carry the momentum into the rest of the season,” Lutz said.
As the program continues to build a reputation as a consistent player in the conference, alumni like Lutz will continue to watch with pride.
