Georgia State Football: Panthers unraveled after Donald Russell injury

Georgia State running back Donald Russell left Saturday's game with a knee injury and his presence was sorely missed as the Panthers offense struggled in their 49-24 loss to Villanova.

Russell left Saturday's game in the first quarter after suffering a knee injury, forcing the Panthers to play without their best offensive player. He has been a vital part of the Georgia State offense and entered the game leading the Colonial Athletic Association. Prior to the loss to Villanova, Russell had accounted for roughly 40 percent of Georgia State's offensive yards.

Through the first seven games of the season, Russell averaged 106.1 rushing yards per game while averaging 6.4 yards per carry . With him missing the majority of the game on Saturday, Georgia State was only able to gain 79 rushing yards while averaging 2.7 yards per carry.

Panthers head coach Bill Curry said Russell suffered a MCL strain against Villanova. It's still unknown whether he will be able to play on Saturday when Georgia State plays James Madison.