By BJ Bennett
SouthernPigskin.com

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Georgia State wants the site of Turner Field, home of the Atlanta Braves, to be its new football stadium.

nThe Atlanta Journal-Constitution has reported that Georgia State is proposing a project that would, among other changes, remodel Turner Field into a new 30,000-seat football stadium. Despite opening in just 1997, the current home of the Atlanta Braves will become a relic of the past when the franchise debuts its new Cobb County site in 2017. Obviously, the 77-acre lot will be used in some form or fashion post-Major League Baseball.

nIn an FBS transitional year in 2013, the Panthers averaged 15,577 fans over seven home games. Currently, the Panthers play football at the nearby Georgia Dome. Also the home of the Atlanta Falcons, the SEC Championship Game and the Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl, the facility holds 74,000 fans. For GSU home games, capacity is 31,994.

nReportedly, the aforementioned plan is a $300 million idea that would include housing developments and shopping, in addition to a football stadium centerpiece and other athletic facilities. A baseball field where old Fulton County Stadium used to stand is one of the projections.

nFrom a football stadium standpoint, such a move would be incredibly valuable for a program settling into the Sun Belt Conference.

nExcitement — In a city the size of Atlanta, your angle is your appeal. With Georgia State competing with countless other attractions in the area each weekend, a new stadium in a revitalized area could be a very real draw. Similarly, the introduction of a state-of-the-art venue, exclusive to the Panthers, would likely further the interest of the school’s 32,000 students. A tangible theme of progress and growth would have many local and regional benefits.xc2xa0

nLegitimacy — Georgia State football is, in some ways, still looking for validation. A new home football stadium would be the ultimate stamp of approval. While playing in the Georgia Dome, and ultimately the upcoming 2017 version, has certain positives, it is difficult to develop a consistent home atmosphere in a venue fit for the NFL. A more collegial setting would undoubtedly help in both recruiting and marketing opportunities. With GSU still trying to establish a gridiron brand, a move like this would come with meaningful credibility.xc2xa0xc2xa0

nStability — Having started play in just 2010, the Panthers simply don’t have much history or tradition. Trying to develop that in someone else’s stadium comes with countless challenges. If Georgia State football wants to plant real roots in downtown Atlanta, a complex where Turner Field currently is would be a very powerful start. A new stadium would be a major building block for the future.

nClick herexc2xa0for more on Georgia State football