Year Two of the Dell McGee era kicks off with cautious optimism in Atlanta.
Georgia State returns 45 players from last year’s roster and brings back several key contributors on both sides of the ball.
McGee’s debut season started with a bang. The Panthers opened 2024 at 2-1 and looked poised to take a step forward. But the early momentum did not last. Georgia State dropped eight of its final nine games, finishing 3-9 and missing a bowl game for the second time in three seasons.
After that disappointing season, McGee’s Panthers are eager to prove that the program is headed in the right direction — and that the growing pains of last season are behind them.
“I do feel like the foundation was laid for our program and it will show by the 45 players that returned from [last] season that how we go about our everyday business is a way that we’re going to work in the future,” McGee said during Sun Belt Media days back in July.
Offensive inconsistency, turnovers, and defensive breakdowns — especially late in games — were common themes. Still, the early success offered a glimpse of what the team could become with more experience and depth.
Roster Turnover
Despite a disappointing record, Georgia State returns a strong foundation in 2025. That continuity gives McGee and his staff a chance to build real momentum.
Offensively, redshirt senior quarterback Christian Veilleux returns after throwing for 2,047 yards, 13 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. Veilleux aims to take full command of the offense while cutting down on turnovers with former NFL head coach Hue Jackson taking over the offensive coordinator position.
Senior wide receiver Ted Hurst, who led the team with 56 receptions for 961 yards and nine touchdowns, is back as the Panthers’ top weapon. He is expected to remain one of the Sun Belt’s premier receiver. This did not go unnoticed during the preseason awards season, being named to the Preseason Sun Belt first team.
The offensive line returns key contributors in Mason Cook, Alec Johnson and Donovan Funsch, while rising talent Malik Jackson could add further depth. Several young skill players — including Phoenix Moss and DJ Riles — may see expanded roles, especially in the running game and short passing attack.
On defense, redshirt junior linebacker Josiah Robinson anchors the unit after finishing second on the team with 63 total tackles, seven tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks. Up front, redshirt junior defensive tackle Henry Bryant, who was named second team preseason All-Sun Belt, and redshirt senior defensive end Ian Mathews return as a disruptive duo capable of pressuring quarterbacks and closing run lanes.
Special teams also brings consistency. Redshirt junior kicker Liam Rickman went 14-for-19 on field goals and a perfect 30-for-30 on extra points last season. Braeden McAlister returns as well, having averaged 64.2 yards per kickoff in 2024.
More in-depth information about what the 2025 Georgia State roster may look like can be found here.
Schedule Breakdown
Georgia State’s 2025 schedule features a tough non-conference slate and a critical midseason stretch that could define its bowl hopes. The season opens Aug. 30 at Ole Miss, ranked 21st in the preseason AP poll. In a nationally televised game, this match-up will immediately test the Panthers’ toughness. A key home game follows on Sept. 6 against Memphis — a must-win against a strong Group of Five opponent.
October brings a defining run, starting with back-to-back home games against Sun Belt contenders James Madison (Oct. 4) and Appalachian State (Oct. 11). The Panthers then visit rival Georgia Southern on Oct. 18 in the always-heated “Modern Day Hate” matchup. A nationally televised Thursday night game against South Alabama on Oct. 23 gives Georgia State a potential statement opportunity.
With the season ending on the road at Coastal Carolina, Troy and Old Dominion, early success will be crucial to staying in the bowl conversation.
Projected 2025 Record
Floor: 4-8
Ceiling: 8-4
Projection: 6-6
Story to Watch
Dell McGee was not brought in just to win games — he was hired to build a lasting culture. That means discipline, development, and toughness, especially in close games — all things that eluded the 2024 team.
“I [can not] wait to lead this football program as we compete for championships,” McGee said during his introductory press conference in February 2024.
2025 is the year McGee’s vision should begin to show on the field. From sharper execution to improved second-half performances, the Panthers do not just need better results — they need to look like a team that is learning how to win.
While a bowl trip might still be just out of reach, this season must show measurable growth — and set the tone for 2026 and beyond. The climb begins now.
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