🐶 Mississippi State Bulldogs — 2025 Season Preview

cashincountry
Aug 27
2 min read

📍 Conference: SEC🏟️ Home Field: Davis Wade Stadium👔 Head Coach: Jeff Lebby (2nd Season)

📝 Team & Coaching Context

The Bulldogs are entering Year 2 under Jeff Lebby, working to rebound from a 2-10 season in 2024 that was plagued by roster turnover and defensive struggles. Lebby is emphasizing a faster-paced offense and physicality on defense, with more depth across key positions thanks to transfer additions. Despite optimism, Mississippi State’s SEC schedule remains one of the toughest nationally, so this season is about progress and laying a strong foundation for the future.

🔥 Key Players to Watch

Blake Shapen (QB, Sr.): Veteran signal-caller tasked with elevating the offense and providing leadership.
Davon Booth (RB, Sr.): Reliable power runner with elite ball security; expected to anchor the backfield.
Fluff Bothwell (RB, Soph.): Versatile South Alabama transfer who adds big-play ability.
Isaac Smith (S, Jr.): Defensive playmaker looking to lead a rebuilt secondary.
Red Hibbler (EDGE, Sr.): Veteran pass rusher critical to improving sack numbers.
Luke Kromenhoek (QB, Soph.): Transfer QB adding depth and future potential to the offense.
Seydou Traore (TE, Sr.): A red zone target with mismatched size and experience.

🛡️ Defensive Challenges & Improvements

The Bulldogs’ defense struggled mightily in 2024, ranking near the bottom of the SEC in sacks and total defense. This offseason, Lebby and DC Coleman Hutzler made significant additions via the transfer portal to bolster the front seven and secondary.If the Bulldogs can pressure opposing quarterbacks and stop the run, they’ll have a chance to exceed expectations.

📈 Season Outlook & Predictions

Projected Record: 4-8 (1-7 SEC)
Potential Upset Alert: Egg Bowl vs. Ole Miss could be a season highlight.
Key Goals: Build depth, improve defensive efficiency, and showcase progress on offense under Lebby’s scheme.