Rivalry week was last week, but Georgia Southern fans hate Georgia State (and vice versa) in one of FBS’ best new rivalries that nobody knows about. Part of that stems from the fact that Georgia State is such a new program, having started in 2010, and Georgia Southern has far more history. The rivalry is getting bigger every year, and it will be even bigger if the new GSU ever beats the traditional GSU.
How to watch Georgia State vs. Georgia Southern on TV or online, plus 3 things to know
It’s the most heated rivalry you’ve never heard of.
Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
This year, Southern is still the stronger program. The Eagles lost to Appalachian State, ruining their chance to go undefeated in the Sun Belt for the second straight year, but in their second year in FBS, they have still been impressive, winning the rest of their conference games en route to a 6-1 conference record. They also nearly took down Georgia in Athens, falling in overtime. This team can still take on mid-level power conference schools with success, so it’s clear Georgia State has some catching up to do.
That said, State has definitely shown improvement. The Panthers have three straight Sun Belt wins, and they can reach bowl eligibility by taking down their in-state rivals. This might not have been the breakout year for the program, but perhaps it’s the precursor to a breakthrough in 2016.
How to watch, stream and listen
TV: 2 p.m. ET, ESPN3
Radio: Georgia State, Georgia Southern
Online streaming: WatchESPN
Spread: Georgia Southern is favored by 21 points.
Make friends: Get to SB Nation’s team blog chats for this game at Underdog Dynasty for fans of both teams.
Three big things to know
1. Barring an Arkansas State loss, Georgia Southern can finish for at least a tie of second in the Sun Belt with a win. That’s not quite as good as last year, but it’s pretty impressive for a team in just its second year in the FBS.
2. This is certainly a rivalry, but Southern doesn’t want to acknowledge State’s legitimacy yet. The Eagles would have to if the Panthers win in Statesboro.
3. Georgia State gets bowl eligibility with a win! And Georgia Southern gets to play in a bowl game for the first time regardless! That’s an accomplishment for both programs.
See More:
