The Kentucky Wildcats play host to the Mississippi State Bulldogs on Saturday night in a crucial SEC showdown from Kroger Field. The Bulldogs come in with a stellar 5-1 mark and with three wins in a row, things seem to be moving in the right direction for this group. For the Wildcats, back-to-back losses have them moving in the other direction and while once seen as a contender in the SEC, now has them simply looking to snap their skid. The Bulldogs won last year's battle but now that they have to go on the road for this one, it could spell trouble in the rematch.
There wasn't a ton expected of Mississippi State this season but through six weeks, they might be one of the biggest surprises in the SEC. Sitting at 5-1, they've won three straight, with the last two coming against SEC foes that at one time found themselves in the top ten this season. Last week's 23-point win against the Aggies definitely set the tone that this team is one that needs to be taken seriously in the conference. With two of their next three games coming against Alabama and Georgia, they need to grab the win on Saturday to set the tone going forward.
It should help that the Bulldogs only have one player on the most recent injury report as they head into the weekend. Kwatrivous Johnson (foot) is questionable for this weekend's matchup and even though he might be the only absence, it's sure to be one that is likely to impact how the game goes at times.
“I just think it gives so much balance to the offense where it just makes it very difficult to stop and takes State to another level.” – @TimTebow
More from @JoelTColeman on how the run game is boosting the #AirRaid to even greater heights.#HailState??https://t.co/l1JUlDi2cp
— Mississippi State Football (@HailStateFB) October 13, 2022
Offensively, Mississippi State is known for its pass-heavy offense, and this year more than ever, the focus has been on that aspect. They rank 27th nationally in total yards and 22nd in scoring, while they rank fifth in passing yards per game. In a matchup where controlling the clock could be key though, having the country's 115th-ranked ground attack is the reason for concern. Will Rogers (22 touchdowns, 3 interceptions) remains one of the best quarterbacks in the country and if he can continue to have his way in the pocket, Kentucky won't be able to keep up with what the Bulldogs have from a scoring efficnecy output.
Defensively, the Bulldogs were once known as the team that could score on any play but also be scored upon on any play. Now, they find themselves ranked 55th nationally in total defense and with their ability to turn teams over, those short-field situations have continued to add up for this group. Jett Johnson (57 tackles) has continued to be all over the field at linebacker but the real story has been their improvement in the pass rush. Now with the ability to pressure the quarterback consstently, ot could spell trouble for Kentucky.
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