Mississippi State University’s football program is looking to build on a modest improvement under third‑year head coach Jeff Lebby. After a 5‑8 finish in 2025, the Bulldogs posted five wins this season, up from just two conference victories in each of the prior two years. Lebby told reporters that the team’s internal progress gives the program a chance to change its fortunes.
Roster improvements and key players
Lebby highlighted a deeper, more experienced roster as the foundation for future success. Sophomore quarterback Kamario Taylor is expected to take a larger role after serving primarily as a backup and short‑yardage option last season. Taylor appeared in 11 games as a freshman, starting twice, and recorded five passing touchdowns along with eight rushing scores. At 6‑foot‑4 and 230 pounds, he fits Lebby’s up‑tempo offense that blends quarterback runs with a passing attack.
The Bulldogs also have returning talent at receiver. Senior Anthony Evans III leads the receiving corps, while speedy transfer Marquis Johnson from Missouri adds depth on the outside. On the ground, running back Fluff Bothwell is expected to complement Taylor’s runs with a traditional power‑running style.
Defensive outlook
Defensively, Mississippi State hopes to tighten up a unit that allowed 45 sacks last season – more than any other team in the Football Bowl Subdivision. Former head coach Zach Arnett, who was promoted to defensive coordinator after the death of Mike Leach in 2022, returns to the role. Lebby praised Arnett’s play‑calling ability and experience, saying the staff needed that expertise “in a great way.”
Cornerback Kelly Jones enters the season as a Jim Thorpe Award candidate and was named to the preseason second‑team All‑America squad. Additional defensive depth comes from transfers such as defensive lineman Dealyn Evans (Texas A&M) and edge rusher Amareee Williams (Florida State).
Schedule challenges
Even with the roster upgrades, the Bulldogs face a formidable SEC schedule. Their slate includes six teams ranked in the preseason AP Top 25, such as No. 13 Alabama (Oct. 3), No. 11 LSU (Oct. 17), No. 10 Oklahoma (Oct. 24), No. 5 Texas (Oct. 31), and No. 9 Mississippi (Nov. 27). Lebby acknowledged that strong individual performances may not be enough to secure many victories against that level of competition.
Mississippi State finished 115th nationally against the run last season, surrendering 186.3 rushing yards per game. Improving run defense will be critical, especially against high‑powered offenses in the SEC.
Looking ahead
Lebby remains optimistic, stating the program is “in a much better spot than we were a year ago today.” The coaching staff will aim to translate the improved roster and experience into more competitive games, hoping to break the pattern of limited conference wins that has plagued the Bulldogs for the past three seasons.
Fans and alumni will be watching closely as the season unfolds, eager to see whether the combination of upgraded talent, experienced coaching, and a renewed defensive approach can finally lift Mississippi State out of the SEC’s lower tier.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
