The Mississippi State Bulldogs are gearing up for an exciting showdown against the Missouri Tigers this weekend. With their sights set on the 2025 campaign, the Bulldogs are eager to evaluate their talent and see what the future holds. They recently celebrated their first win over an FBS team, triumphing against UMass a few weeks ago. Now, they’re looking to finish their season strong, with Missouri and the Egg Bowl rivalry against the Ole Miss Rebels on the horizon.
Missouri’s Offensive Struggles
When we look at Missouri’s recent performances, it’s clear that they have faced some challenges on the offensive side of the ball. In their last game against South Carolina, the Tigers managed to score only six points in the first half and a mere 12 points through the first three quarters. This inconsistency has raised questions about their ability to compete effectively against a determined Mississippi State team.
However, despite these struggles, Missouri has some standout players who can make a difference. Receiver Theo Wease has been a key contributor this season, racking up 47 catches for 637 yards and three touchdowns. Another notable player is Luther Burden III, who has tallied 53 catches for 574 yards and five touchdowns. Will these talented receivers be enough to spark Missouri’s offense against the Bulldogs?
Injury Report Ahead of the Game
As we approach this highly anticipated matchup, injuries are a significant concern for both teams. Here’s a look at the Wednesday injury report for the Missouri Tigers and Mississippi State Bulldogs.
Missouri Tigers
- WR Mookie Cooper – Out
- DE Darris Smith – Out
- QB Sam Horn – Out
- LB Khalil Jacobs – Out
- DE Joe Moore – Out
- OL Connor Tollison – Out
- S Tre’Vez Johnson – Probable
- QB Brady Cook – Probable
Mississippi State Bulldogs
- QB Blake Shapen – Out
- CB Traveon Wright – Out
- WR Creed Whittemore – Out
- WR Trent Hudson – Out
- DL Kedrick Bingley-Jones – Out
- RB Keyvone Lee – Out
- DL Kalvin Dinkins – Out
- OL Canon Boone – Out
The injury report reveals a tough situation for both teams, but there is some good news for Missouri. Quarterback Brady Cook appears likely to return, listed as probable. This season, he has completed 63.5% of his passes for 1,812 yards, throwing eight touchdowns and just two interceptions. Additionally, he has shown his versatility as a runner, with 54 carries for 90 yards and four touchdowns. Will his return provide the spark Missouri needs?
Mississippi State’s Quarterback Dilemma
On the other side, Mississippi State has been grappling with injuries throughout the 2024 campaign, particularly at the quarterback position. Blake Shapen, who was injured during a tough 45-28 loss to Florida, has been sidelined for the entire season due to a shoulder injury. This has forced freshman quarterback Michael Van Buren, Jr. into the spotlight.
Despite being thrown into the fire, Van Buren has held his own. He has completed 54.6% of his passes for 1,415 yards, with nine touchdowns and five interceptions. Can he continue to rise to the occasion and lead the Bulldogs against a formidable opponent?
Looking Ahead to the Matchup
As the Bulldogs prepare to face the Tigers, fans are buzzing with anticipation. This game not only holds significance for the current season but also serves as a crucial opportunity for both teams to assess their rosters and strategies heading into the future. With the Egg Bowl rivalry looming, every play will matter.
Mississippi State will be looking to capitalize on Missouri’s offensive struggles while hoping to leverage their own emerging talent. The Bulldogs’ defense will need to step up, especially against Missouri’s capable receivers. Will they be able to contain Wease and Burden, or will they find ways to exploit the Bulldogs’ weaknesses?
The Stakes Are High
This matchup is more than just another game; it’s a chance for both teams to showcase their talent and resilience. For Mississippi State, it’s about building momentum as they head into the Egg Bowl. For Missouri, it’s about finding their rhythm and proving they can compete despite recent setbacks.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, fans are left wondering: who will emerge victorious in this clash of SEC rivals? Will Missouri’s offense find its footing, or will Mississippi State’s defense rise to the occasion? One thing is for sure—this game promises to deliver excitement, drama, and plenty of college football action!
