Dan Mullen held his weekly press conference on Monday, and it’s no surprise that he was asked about Ole Miss. Mississippi State travels to Oxford, Miss. to take on their rivals in the Egg Bowl on Saturday, with a College Football Playoff spot likely on the line for the Bulldogs.

“I know this is the biggest game of the year for us. As far as the records, none of that stuff really matters coming into this game. It’s all about winning the game and getting bragging rights in the state for a year,” Mullen said.

Mullen said he’s embraced the rivalry whole-heartedly since arriving in Starkville. The coach said he’s been involved in some big rivalries throughout his career — Notre Dame vs. Southern Cal, Florida vs. Florida State and Utah vs. BYU — and none compare to how “nasty” the Ole Miss-State showdown is.

“I think this is bigger than all of those rivalries,” Mullen said. “It’s neighbor against neighbor. There’s so much in this trophy and with the bragging rights that go on in this state.”

Mullen touched on the speed and ferocity of Ole Miss’ defense, saying that they bring a ton of pressure and play very fast. He also said he’s not putting too much stock into Bo Wallace’s turnover issues against Arkansas last week — not surprising, considering how Mullen has dismissed his own quarterback’s turnover issues at times this season.

Some of the other highlights from Mullen’s press conference:

  • Mullen said that senior linebacker Christian Holmes is a “great example” for the younger players on the team. He praised Holmes for his willingness to learn multiple positions and “teach guys how to learn the game of football.”
  • Having played well on the road this season helps with preparation for Ole Miss. Mullen is moving the team’s crowd noise speakers to the offensive side, and having the team work on silent cadences, but is otherwise preparing as usual.