Georgia State Football: Shawn Elliott Isn't Worried About Complacency

Georgia State are off to a historic start

© Mickey Welsh-USA TODAY Sports

The Georgia State Panthers' football program is in the middle of what has potential to be its best season ever. After downing Coastal Carolina on Thursday night, the Panthers are now 4-0 for the first time in their history. 

Shawn Elliott is now in his seventh season leading the program. The Panthers played just four FBS seasons before the former South Carolina assistant took over. 

During this week's Sun Belt coaches media availability, Elliott spoke to G5 Football Daily when asked how he'll keep his team from getting complacent in the face of success. To put it bluntly, he's not worried about it.

“Complacent? We’re 3-0 for the first time in history. It’s not like we’ve been 3-0 for the last 20 years. Shit, we’re hungry," Elliott said with a smile on his face. "That’s the way it is. It feels good to be 3-0…Nobody really cares about that record at this point in time. You got to turn the page and move quickly [into conference play]…Moving along is not difficult for us and we’re certainly not getting complacent. I can promise you that.”

Elliott's team lived up to his word two days later with the Coastal Carolina win. So far, they've also compiled wins over Charlotte, UConn, and Rhode Island. The Panthers' toughest tests are definitely still to come. With Elliott's current contract ending after 2024, performing well in those games and contending for a league title will go a long way in determining what happens next on that front.

The Panthers will look to improve their 2023 record to 5-0 and win their second consecutive conference game on October 1 when they host defending Sun Belt champions Troy.