George Mason opens season at home against North Carolina Central

Patriots look to start season strong against FCS foe

Mason enters 2023 with high hopes after a successful 2022 campaign

George Mason will open the 2023 season at home against North Carolina Central on Saturday, September 2.

The Patriots are coming off a successful 2022 season in which they finished 7-5 and 4-4 in the Atlantic 10 Conference. Mason returns several key players from that team, including quarterback AJ Mayer and running back Davin Pinkney.

North Carolina Central is an FCS program that finished 6-5 last season. The Eagles are led by quarterback Davius Richard and running back Latrell Collier.

The game will be a good test for the Patriots as they look to start the season strong. Mason is a slight favorite in the game, but North Carolina Central is a dangerous opponent that could pull off the upset.

Here are three things to watch for in the game:

1. The performance of AJ Mayer: Mayer is one of the top quarterbacks in the A-10 and he will need to play well for the Patriots to win.
2. The running game: Mason has a strong running game led by Davin Pinkney. The Patriots will need to use their running game to control the clock and keep the NC Central defense honest.
3. The pass rush: North Carolina Central has a good pass rush led by defensive end Davius Richard. The Patriots will need to protect their quarterback and give him time to make plays.

The game will be televised on ESPN+ and will kick off at 7 p.m. ET.