Mississippi State faces a difficult road test against the sixth-ranked Aggies this weekend, a team that may match the downfield threat and receiving production of the Bulldogs. It’s a chance for the hosts to build on a smothering defensive performance in the win against Auburn last weekend, and, for the Bulldogs, it’s a chance to right the wrongs of last week’s overtime home loss to Tennessee.
Here’s a look at who has the edge in each position ahead of the meeting under the lights at Kyle Field on Saturday.
Quarterback
Marcel Reed has brought stability to the quarterback position for A&M. He and Blake Shapen have pretty comparable stats, with limited interceptions and an ability to find guys downfield for big plays. Both guys also have the ability to scramble, but Reed has spent a bit less time taking hits than Shapen. Without much to separate, the performance will certainly come down to protection and the playmakers.
Edge: Even
Running back
Aggies back Le’Veon Moss had his best game of the season against Auburn last week, scoring his team’s only touchdown of the day and getting over the century mark for the first time this year. Reuben Owens offers a strong second option on the ground as well, but the balance gives the Bulldogs the advantage here. Fluff Bothwell and Davon Booth are the real deal.
Edge: Mississippi State
Wide receiver/tight end
This is another group where the teams are pretty similar. The Bulldogs know all about Mario Craver, who leads the SEC in receiving with 477 yards through four games.
MSU’s top receiver Brenen Thompson was banged up and left the game against Tennessee, and head coach Jeff Lebby is hoping he can make a comeback for Saturday. While the players behind Thompson have been more productive than the players behind Craver and K.C. Concepcion for the Aggies, A&M has a health factor in its favor that can’t be overlooked in this head-to-head.
Edge: Texas A&M
Offensive line
MSU is banged up on the O-line as well. Albert Reese left the game against Tennessee but is hoping to make a return on the road. Still, while the Bulldogs have been able to establish the run, pass protection has left something to be desired.
For A&M, their consistency up front in both areas gives them the edge.
Edge: Texas A&M
Defensive line
The Bulldogs have been much better on the line this year, thanks in part to depth, but the Aggies run defense has been even better. The sack numbers help put their group over the line in this one.
Edge: Texas A&M
Linebackers
Linebacker remains a position of strength for MSU. Isaac Smith seems likely to miss the trip after leaving with a lower leg injury against the Vols last week, but the depth shone through for the unit in big spots. Zakari Tillman had his best game of the season with a sack and an interception, and Brandon Jennings has emerged alongside Nic Mitchell as the team has been able to gang tackle much better this season. They’ll be big for stopping the run and keeping Reed contained on Saturday.
Edge: Mississippi State
Secondary
The Aggies have some important playmakers in the secondary. Will Lee and Tyreek Chappell both rank high in tackles with a pass defended each, but the unit hasn’t done much by way of taking the ball away.
The Bulldogs have been better in that regard, with a strong safety group and two reliable options at corner with Kelley Jones and DeAgo Brumfield. Jett Jefferson also made his return to action after an early-season injury, bolstering the pass defense.
The edge goes to MSU, which has the 25th-ranked passing efficiency defense in FBS.
Edge: Mississippi State
Special teams
Kyle Ferrie had his first miss of the season against Tennessee, but otherwise has been perfect on extra points and reliable from distance on field goals. The Aggies haven’t had as much consistency, switching between two guys in the kicking game in search of answers.
Edge: Mississippi State
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