Spring is upon us, which means Georgia State football offseason training is live and in full effect.
The Panthers started spring practice back on March 9. Their annual Spring Game, a first chance for the public to see the team, comes on April 16.
The game will be the first time the fans see the team play at Center Parc Stadium since beating Georgia Southern 30-14 in November.
It seems like time is flying, as the team just wrapped up a great 6-4 season with a win over Western Kentucky in the Lending Tree Bowl.
The Panthers spring game will feature 22 returning starters, headlined by wide receiver Sam Pinckney, running back Destin Coates, safety Antavious Lane and tight end Roger Carter.
In addition to the returning players, head coach Shawn Elliott brings in versatile transfers, glistening with the potential to make a massive impact at Georgia State.
Transfers Darren Grainger from Fordham, Ja’Cyais Credle from Central Florida and Shamar McCollum from Wake Forest have impressed Elliott early on.
“They all fit in nicely, and they’re all going to be big contributors for us,” Elliott said.
Elliott’s optimism for the 2021 transfers also stems from their seamless transition into their roles as the whole team continues “embracing” one another.
Although Sept. 4 is far away, the Panthers compete daily in practice, battling for playing time and starting spots.
Darrien Grainger and Mikele Colasurdo battling for the second spot behind Cornelious Brown IV at quarterback could become intriguing in the next few months.
“I think we got three great quality quarterbacks. It’s something a lot of people don’t have an opportunity to experience, whether it’s in their coaching career or as a player on the team. But I think our quarterback room has been a huge improvement,” Elliott said.
During his discussion with the media, Elliott’s enthusiasm echoed to the media, expressing his excitement for the developing wide receiver battle.
“If I was probably going to say there is going to be a battle amongst battles, I think it’s the wide receiver room,” Elliott said.
Elliott and the Panthers are ecstatic to watch what Jamil Muhammad does after transitioning from offense to defense.
“Jamil has great speed, power and intelligence … he is going to make an impact on the defensive side of the ball for us,” Elliott said.
Last year, the Panthers converted Muhammad to linebacker after playing quarterback under now-assistant coach Dan Ellington.
Across the field, the Panthers will have talented individuals at every position, and it will be up to the team to make sure they come out strong. April 16 could bring an opportunity for the program to excite their fans and energize the team to follow up on last year’s success.
