STARKVILLE — The looks at the 2026 Mississippi State football team have been limited, but fans will get their first glimpses at the new squad this weekend at an open scrimmage.
It won’t be the same Maroon and White game format, but those in attendance can expect a live look at the work in progress on a team with new leaders, but the same eye for the home-run ball and getting guys in space.
Much like the first fall scrimmage back in August, head coach Jeff Lebby came away from the first spring scrimmage in search of more from the offense, but he was happy to see growth after the most recent 11-on-11.
“I thought there was a lot more back and forth today,” Lebby said after the last scrimmage on Friday. “Some really good moments for both sides of the ball… created some explosive plays offensively, which we needed, that we didn’t connect on last week. At the same time, defensively found a way, down on the goalline, to get a couple huge stops.”
A glimpse of the action was shared on social media, with quarterback Kamario Taylor connecting on a big play with the top returning receiver, Anthony Evans.
The Bulldogs were one of the hottest offenses in the country when it came to connecting on shots downfield. The deep ball will remain a big part of the offense, though the focus on the offensive line and running game will be crucial as well in opening up the playbook and creating room for home-run hits.
“We’re looking for balance, we’re looking for back and forth,” Lebby added. “We’re looking for great physicality, great effort and execution. I was proud of the guys and their energy today and continuing to play the next play when moments weren’t perfect.”
Rising running backs
There have been a few newcomers and rising talents on the roster who have looked to fill positions vacated by seniors and transfer departures, and Saturday will be the first opportunity for fans to see them for themselves.
One position that always sticks out is running back, where Fluff Bothwell is the undisputed bellcow back after an impressive sophomore campaign. He formed a tandem with graduate Davon Booth, and the spot is open for players to step up and earn reps alongside him.
Kolin Wilson is one player Lebby mentioned, but he also gave credit to the incoming freshmen backs, J.J. Hill and Cooper Crosby.
“Kolin has had a really good spring. I’m not ready to just stamp it, but nine practices in, this guy’s practicing the right way,” Lebby said. “He has matured immensely, and he’s got a really fun skillset. Proud of who he’s becoming, he’s got to continue to grow, being a young guy. Both freshmen have come in here and worked their butt off. They’re both obviously babies, but guys that love to play football and know what it’s supposed to look like from the standpoint of work ethic, and they come from great programs.”
Saturday scrimmage
The Bulldogs will run at least 100 plays in a scrimmage free and open to the public at Davis Wade Stadium on Saturday, starting at 9:15 a.m. Gates will open at 8:45 a.m.
“We’re really excited about the talent we retained and added to the roster this past offseason, along with the staff we’ve brought together, and this is a great opportunity to share that with our fans,” Lebby said in a university release. “In a time when opportunities like this are becoming more limited, it means a lot to open our doors and give the Bulldog family a chance to watch us work and connect with our players. We’re grateful for the support we’ve received and can’t wait to have everyone back in Davis Wade this spring.”
Saturday’s scrimmage won’t mirror any traditional spring-game format with scoring, nor will there be an opportunity to watch the scrimmage on television or a streaming platform.
At the conclusion of play, there will be meet-and-greet opportunities with players, including posters and autograph and photo opportunities on the field once stadium officials announce that the northeast and southeast field gates are open.
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