STARKVILLE — Mississippi State University will host the Mississippi High School Activities Association football state championships at Davis Wade Stadium in December, bringing the title games back to Starkville for the first time since 2016. 

The Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mississippi Gridiron Classic will take place at MSU’s stadium from December 4-6.

“We’re honored to serve as the host for the 2025 MHSAA Football State Championships at Davis Wade Stadium and to bring teams, families and fans from across Mississippi to The Best Small Town in the South,” MSU Athletic Director Zac Selmon said. “These championships showcase the tradition, talent and passion that define high school football in our state, while giving student-athletes the chance to compete on one of the premier campuses in the country. We’re excited to create a first-class experience these student-athletes will always remember.”

“We are thrilled the Mississippi High School Activities Association is hosting the state football championships in Starkville, Mississippi’s College Town,” added Paige Hunt, the director of tourism at the Greater Starkville Development Partnership. “In addition to fighting it out on the gridiron at Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field on Mississippi State’s campus, players and spectators will enjoy all the amenities the Best Small Town in the South has to offer. From a variety of dining options to locally owned shops, to an array of unique neighborhoods and districts to explore, there is something for everyone, and we are looking forward to welcoming these teams and their supporters to Starkville.”

The state title games host site has changed several times in the last decade. The occasion used to take place at the Veterans Memorial Stadium in Jackson each year, but began moving between Division I football sites with Southern Miss hosting six times, Ole Miss hosting twice and MSU last hosting in 2016. 

“First, we express our appreciation to Mississippi State University and Starkville for continued support and for graciously opening their doors to welcome us,” MHSAA Executive Director Rickey Neaves said. “We have zero doubt that the experience for our schools, student-athletes, coaches, and fans will be second-to-none.”

The games will begin on Thursday, Dec. 4, with the Class 1A and 5A games, continue through Friday, Dec. 5, with the Class 4A and 6A games, and conclude on Saturday, Dec. 6, with the Class 3A, 2A and 7A games. 

The West Point Green Wave football team was the only area team to win a state championship in Hattiesburg last year, defeating Gautier 28-21 to clinch a second consecutive Class 5A crown and the 13th state title in school history. 

Noxubee County made the trip to The Rock as well in the Class 3A title game, losing to Choctaw County for a third straight runner-up season.