OXFORD — Mississippi State’s first three plays were runs that gained 33 yards. The next 48 runs gained 279 yards, more than enough to win the Egg Bowl.
No. 22 MSU found quickly that it could run on the Rebels and it never strayed away for long. Even in the second half when it wasn’t as explosive, it still scored two touchdowns and it was more than enough to with a stout defense in support. The Bulldogs used it all to win the Egg Bowl in convincing fashion, 35-3.
Along the way, two Bulldogs ran for more than 100 yards: Nick Fitzgerald for 117 and two touchdowns and Kylin Hill form 108 and one score.
The game did not lack its usual animosity: a fight after the final play of the third quarter cleared both sidelines. MSU had three defenders — cornerback Cameron Dantzler, cornerback Jamal Peters and linebacker Willie Gay Jr. — ejected from the game for it.
The exact status of those players for the bowl game is unclear. The NCAA rule book does have language indicating those ejected for fighting in the second half must miss the first half of the ensuing game, but the calls on the field were for unsportsmanlike conduct. A comprehensive review from the SEC is expected.
The Bulldog defense held Ole Miss to 189 yards of offense and no touchdowns for the first time this season.
Follow Dispatch sports writer Brett Hudson on Twitter @Brett_Hudson
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