Despite the fact that Georgia Southern and Georgia State have only met on the gridiron once there is still a strong rivalry between the two schools that dates back to 1980s. The rivalry began on the hardcourt when both teams competed in the Atlantic Sun Conference from 1983 to 1992 and since then has flourished over the fact both schools want to lay claim to the GSU moniker. Georgia Southern has won the only meeting so far 69-31, but the Panthers hope to buck that trend this season.
Both of these big time programs have a slew of alumni in Atlanta meaning that a matchup between either one of them and Georgia State is sure to draw a big crowd.
Panthers Tailgate Guide
Atmosphere
Fans line the Center Parc Stadium parking lots approximately 4 hours before kickoff and start firing up the grill in anticipation to cheer on their Panthers to victory. Student and alumni alike come out in full force to create a special tailgate party that has its own Georgia State flair.
The tailgate atmosphere of Georgia State is a unique party atmosphere that is still very family friendly. The fans here love to dance and shake as a way to motivate their team to victory. Dancing plays a major role in tailgating at Georgia State, which features a wide variety of dance circles where students and alumni show off their moves. If you love to dance then come on down to a Georgia State game and show off what you’ve got.
Make sure to check out the Olympic cauldron from the 1996 Summer Olympics when attending a Georgia State football game. It’s located in the parking lot outside the stadium, so snap a picture of the Olympic cauldron to remember your trip to Atlanta.
The Panther walk is a chance to give the team a little extra inspiration before kickoff as fans have an opportunity to get up close and personal with the team as they enter the stadium. The walk takes place approximately 2 hours before the game when the band and cheer team leads the team into Center Parc Stadium. Come on out and meet your favorite players before they take the field.
This family-friendly area located on the concourse near Gate C is a great place to take the kids. It features a large array of inflatables, face painting, and many more great children’s activities.
Where to tailgate
Pounce TownThis family-friendly area located on the concourse near Gate C is a great place to take the kids. It features a large array of inflatables, face painting, and many more great children’s activities.
GSU Alumni TailgateIf you’re a GSU alumni, then there is no better place to tailgate than the Alumni Tailgate. The tailgate is free for current Alumni Association members, and guests can tailgate for as little as $5.00 to $10.00, so stop by and join in the fun.
Panthers Stadium Guide
In Game
Georgia State fans are very expressive when it comes to showing the passion and pride they have for their team. Panthers fans celebrate their team’s success by jumping up and down and making a ruckus. Even something as little as a first down is enough to get entire sections up and dancing at a Georgia State game.
One unique thing about attending a Georgia State Panthers game is that since the team plays off campus, there is not a ban on alcohol meaning that beer can be purchased at just about any concession stand in the stadium. The fact that alcohol flows freely at Center Parc Stadium helps create the raucous atmosphere that Panthers fans are known for. Come on down to Center Parc Stadium and grab a beer as you watch the Panthers take down the opposition.
The giant Coke bottle from Center Parc Stadium is still here, so catch a glimpse of it when attending a Panthers football game. The Coke bottle is located on the roof opposite the scoreboard and is a must-see for anyone taking in a Georgia State football game.
On game days, you can see Pounce roaming the sidelines and entertaining fans of all ages. No matter how old you are, you’ll love catching a glimpse of Pounce at a Panthers football game.
The GSU Band dazzles everyone in attendance with their impressive pregame and halftime shows. The band puts on an incredible show and is a big part of any Panthers football game making them a must-see for anyone attending a Panthers football game.
Fight, Panthers, to victory! Our voices yell. You’ll hear us mighty and strong. We’re from the ATL, we’re gonna give ’em hell! Fight, Panthers, to victory! Drive on for the score. BLUE – WHITE, Georgia State is in the fight,
G-S-U!
(CHANT)
G-S-U, G-S-U, G-A-S-T-A-T-E, State! Repeat First 2 Verses
Whether you have a school group out on a field trip, or taking a tour group to see the Braves, The Varsity is the fun, fast, and delicious place to stop.
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