Can Georgia State’s Hunter track down Trojan prey?
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Jontrey Hunter (No. 1 pictured) returns an interception 77 yards for a touchdown versus Coastal Carolina in 2022.
Georgia State’s Jontrey Hunter made the move from Rover/OLB to inside linebacker in 2023. He prepared for the move by adding weight this past offseason. The team’s leading tackler has two forced fumbles through four games.
Possessing solid footwork, Hunter has settled in at the new position for the Panthers (4-0). This weekend he could face his toughest challenge to date. Troy (2-2) features the nation’s fourth leading rusher in Kimani Vidal. Vidal averages over six yards per carry (6.43) and rushed for two touchdowns versus Western Kentucky last weekend.
Troy’s offense
It will be important for Hunter to manage his eye discipline versus the Trojans. 2022 Sun Belt Championship game MVP Gunnar Watson has thrown for over 300 yards in each of the last two contests. His 349-yard performance against the Hilltoppers ranked as a season-high.
Troy lines up in a number of empty formations. They motion Vidal back into the backfield from the outside number one receiver position. In some of these instances, they attempt to get him the football as a receiver in the flats (3rd and 7, 3rd QTR/12:07, WKU ’23). They also employ 11 personnel (TE, RB, 3 WRs) with a mix of motions to change the strength by formation.
As you will see in the video below, however, Hunter can play effectively in space. In fact, last weekend against Coastal Carolina, he once again closed with a fury in the open field (3rd and 16, 2nd QTR/5:57, Coastal ’23).
Since arriving in Atlanta, Hunter has had a nose for the ball. The sixth-year senior has 4.5 quarterback sacks, 17 tackles for losses, six forced fumbles, three interceptions (TD) and six pass breakups.
Vidal runs the football with a low center of gravity. He possesses strength through contact due to a strong lower half. Hunter has been inconsistent bringing his arms to wrap as a tackler (MT in space, 3rd and 15 2nd QTR/1:47, Coastal ’23). The added weight has increased the pop as a pass rusher, but slowed him a step in comparison to a year ago. In addition, his pad level could be challenged versus Vidal.
The undefeated Panthers can begin to stake its claim over the Sun Belt with a victory over the 2022 conference champions. They meet at Center Parc Credit Union Stadium later tonight.
NOTE: MT-stands for missed tackle
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