The people's voice of reason
The people's voice of reason
Troy battled Georgia Southern on 11/22
November 22, 2025 - TROY - In a spirited home finale at Veterans Memorial Stadium, the Troy Trojans delivered a commanding 31–19 victory over Georgia State on Saturday, November 22, 2025. The win not only marked a triumphant end to the regular season at home but also kept Troy's bowl hopes alive as they improved to 7–4 overall and 5–2 in Sun Belt Conference play.
The Trojans, led by head coach Gerad Parker, bounced back from a tough road loss the previous week with a balanced offensive attack and a defense that stifled Georgia State's late-game surge. The win was especially meaningful for the seniors, who were honored before kickoff in front of a raucous home crowd.
First-Half Firepower
Troy wasted no time asserting control. Quarterback Gunnar Watson orchestrated a crisp opening drive, capped by a 22-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Deshon Stoudemire, giving the Trojans an early 7–0 lead. The defense followed suit, forcing a quick three-and-out and setting the tone for the rest of the half.
Running back Damien Taylor added to the momentum with a 14-yard touchdown run midway through the second quarter, extending the lead to 14–3. Georgia State managed to respond with a field goal and a late touchdown, but a 42-yard field goal by Scott Taylor Renfroe as time expired in the half gave Troy a 17–13 advantage heading into the locker room.
Defense Clamps Down
The second half belonged to Troy's defense. Linebacker T.J. Jackson led a relentless pass rush that sacked Georgia State quarterback Darren Grainger four times and forced two turnovers. A key interception by cornerback Reddy Steward in the third quarter halted a promising Panthers drive and shifted momentum firmly in Troy's favor.
The Trojans capitalized on the turnover with a 9-play, 68-yard drive that ended in a 3-yard touchdown plunge by backup running back Kimani Vidal, pushing the lead to 24–13.
Closing It Out
Georgia State attempted a fourth-quarter comeback, narrowing the gap to 24–19 with a touchdown but failing on a two-point conversion. Troy's offense responded with poise, chewing up clock and sealing the game with a 17-yard touchdown reception by tight end Clayton Ollendieck with just under two minutes remaining.
The final whistle brought a wave of celebration from the home crowd, as the Trojans secured their seventh win of the season and honored their seniors with a memorable sendoff.
By the Numbers
• Gunnar Watson: 21-of-30 passing, 248 yards, 2 TDs
• Damien Taylor: 17 carries, 89 yards, 1 TD
• T.J. Jackson: 2 sacks, 7 tackles
• Reddy Steward: 1 INT, 3 pass breakups
• Total Yards: Troy 412, Georgia State 356
Coach Parker's Take
"I'm very excited and happy for our 24 seniors here to play at The Vet, which we believe is one of the premier venues in Group of Five college football. They got a win that will last them a lifetime. That's a good memory and going out the right way for them."
What's Next
Troy will close out the regular season on the road against Southern Miss on Saturday, November 29. A win could position the Trojans for a favorable bowl invitation and cap off another strong campaign under Sumrall's leadership.
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