Murray State vs Georgia State prediction and analysis

Game Overview
On September 13, 2025, the Murray State Racers will face off against the Georgia State Panthers in a non-conference matchup at Center Parc Stadium. Both teams enter this Week 3 contest searching for their first victory of the season, as each holds a 0-2 record. Georgia State comes in as a heavy favorite with a -28.5 point spread, and the over/under is set at 63.5 points.
Key Factors to Consider
- Georgia State Home Advantage: Historically, Georgia State has been strong at home against non-conference opponents, winning four of its last five such games. The Panthers have a track record of winning the first quarter and first half in the majority of recent home non-conference contests, indicating an ability to start fast and impose their will early.
- Recent Betting Trends: Despite favored status, Georgia State has struggled against the spread in recent games. They have lost each of the last four games when favored and have failed to cover in seven straight games as the favorite. Furthermore, underdogs have found success at Center Parc Stadium, winning five of the last six games and covering seven of the last eight.
- Offensive and Defensive Performance: Georgia State has demonstrated a vulnerability particularly in the second quarter and second half this season, allowing an average of 15.5 points in the third quarter alone and 29.5 points in the second half. This trend suggests the Panthers could face issues maintaining leads or defensive intensity as the game progresses.
- Turnovers and Playmakers: Jordan Huff, leading the Sun Belt Conference with an interception this season, is a defensive threat to watch for Georgia State, potentially pivotal in creating key turnovers.
- Murray State’s Struggles and Potential Upset: Though the Racers have yet to record a win this year, they could capitalize on Georgia State’s recent inability to cover spreads and defensive lapses in later quarters. The resilient underdog has a favorable history at Center Parc Stadium, suggesting Murray State could keep the game competitive or even pull an upset despite the odds.
Prediction Summary
While Georgia State is the stronger team on paper, leveraging a solid home record against non-conference foes and a strong defensive playmaker in Jordan Huff, their recent performance versus the spread and second-half defensive vulnerabilities cannot be ignored. Murray State’s persistence and the underdog trend at Center Parc Stadium mean the Panthers might struggle to cover the large spread.
The final result will likely feature Georgia State pulling out a win, but expect Murray State to keep it closer than the odds suggest, especially if Georgia State falters defensively in the second half once again.
Final Prediction
Georgia State to win the game, but Murray State to cover the spread. Prediction: Georgia State -15.