OFFENSE DEFENSE

There is no doubt that Mississippi State and the entire college football world will miss Mike Leach. As an individual and coach, he was truly remarkable. Now the Bulldogs must carry on his legacy. Enter offensive coordinator Kevin Barbay to try to pick up where Leach left off last season. Most of the offense returns, beginning with triggerman Will Rogers. Over three seasons, Rogers has completed 70.7 percent of his throws for 10,689 yards and 82 touchdowns. Lideatrick Griffin and Rufus Harvey will continue to be primary targets, but expect this edition of the Air Raid to throw down field much more. That’s where Justin Robinson and Jaden Walley come in. Another change will be the use of tight ends. Geor’quarius Spivey, Ryland Goede and Seydou Traore will all rotate in the offense. The offensive line is a group of experienced seniors led by Kameron Jones.

Once again, the front six should be strong for the Bulldogs, but there are some huge losses in the secondary. Mississippi State coaches don’t ask the linemen to worry about getting in the backfield as much as primarily holding the line of scrimmage. Nathan Pickering, Jaden Crumedy, De’Monte Russell and Jordan Davis understand that well and know how to build a wall. Most of the tackles and pressure come from the linebackers. Nathaniel Watson, who has been in Starkville for 10 seasons it seems, is incredibly productive behind the line and sideline to sideline. Jett Johnson is a similar player and tallied two more tackles than Watson last season. Decamerion Richardson is the lone returnee in the secondary, and he is quite a playmaker. But the unforgiving September schedule is no time to be breaking in inexperienced defensive backs.

Special Teams

2023 Schedule

Special Teams

Newcomers

Creed Whittemore, WR — The freshman played quarterback in high school, so his first experience at receiver was in spring practice where he impressed coaches with his quick study.

Geor’Quarius Spivey, TE — Spivey returns to Mississippi State after suiting up for the Bulldogs in 1019-20 before spending the last two seasons at TCU. The tight end will be a large part of the passing game. He had 11 catches last season including one in the national championship game.

Ryland Goede, TE — The tight end brings experience of a national champion at Georgia last season.