Mississippi State Bulldogs Seek Upset Win Over LSU in Baton Rouge

Mississippi State Bulldogs head coach Jeff Lebby believes his team has the most strengths of any team he's put on the field since arriving in Starkville, Mississippi. The Bulldogs have a reliable linebacker group, led by Zakari Tillman, Derion Gullette, Tyler Lockhart, and Jalen Smith, who have experience and a togetherness that's crucial for a team rebuilding its roster. Lebby is also confident in his defensive backs, which include top cornerback Kelley Jones and transfers Quentin Taylor Jr. from Iowa State, Jardin Gilbert from LSU, and Marcus Williams from Rice. The secondary is well-equipped to match up against LSU's overhauled receiver room. However, the Bulldogs' biggest weakness is the need for transfers to gel, particularly at the quarterback position, where sophomore Kamario Taylor will be the full-time starter for the first time. Mississippi State's class was ranked No. 35 nationally and No. 15 in the SEC, and the team will need to prove itself against LSU, which is also dealing with the challenge of integrating a new roster. LSU is ushering in a new era under coach Lane Kiffin, who brought his entire offensive staff from Ole Miss. The Tigers' defensive staff is returning from last season, but the majority of the offensive roster is new and will need to gel by August. A win for the Bulldogs will require them to rely on their strengths and capitalize on LSU's potential weaknesses.