Offense
Georgia State finished seventh in the Sun Belt Conference in total offense (355.3 yards per game) in 2013. Offense must be a priority in recruiting if Georgia State expects to compete in the Sun Belt.
Offensive Line
Georgia State allowed 32 sacks and had the worst rushing attack, averaging 102.25 yards per game, both a conference worst.
The rushing attack statistics shows there was either a lack of holes created for the running back to run through, or the line didn’t hold off the defenders long enough causing the play to be disrupted in the backfield.
Signing depth on the offensive line would be key to help add versatility and production for the Panthers’ offense next season.
Wide Receiver
The passing game was one of the bright spots of the offense. The passing offense ranked third (253 yards per game) in the conference.
Unfortunately, the Panthers lost four seniors to graduation.
Albert Wilson led the team with 71 receptions for 1,177 yards and eight touchdowns.
Starting alongside him was freshman Robert Davis, who finished with 44 receptions for 711 yards and four touchdowns. Davis is expected to return next season.
The Panthers could use some depth to play alongside Davis.
Running Back
Signing Gerald Howse last offseason was supposed to be the solution in replacing All-CAA Donald Russell.
However, the coaching staff found that Howse was better suited as full back, promoting senior Travis Evans to starter at the running back position. But now, the position is open again.
Rising sophomores Jonathan Jean-Bart and Kyle Neal are expected to return; However, the more depth, the better to help Georgia State find out who’s their guy at running back.
Defense
The defense finished seventh in total defense in the conference with 465.3 yards allowed per game.
If the Panthers want to improve their chances in competing for championships, defense must be a priority in recruiting.
Defensive Line/Linebackers
Georgia State finished last in the conference in rush yards allowed (222.3).
Stopping the run would have been key in some games this past season, such as against Chattanooga, where Georgia State allowed 401 rushing yards.
It starts up front with the defensive line where they can make opposing lineman miss assignments, make plays in the backfield and force the opposing quarterback to win with his arm.
Having bigger and faster lineman and linebackers could even the playing field in size difference, going into year two in the FBS.
Secondary
Georgia State finished sixth in the Sun Belt against the pass, allowing 242.9 passing yards a game.
The Panthers’ secondary loses six seniors including three starters. To improve their pass defense, recruiting for depth and starters at cornerback and safety will be key this recruiting season.
Special Teams
When the team needed a spark, they could always find it in Albert Wilson on special teams. Wilson was the starting kick and punt returner.
Wilson’s playmaking will be missed as he was always a threat or he at least put the team in the best position to scored.
Recruiting return specialists could help fill that void this off-season.
