The Mississippi State Bulldogs improved to 2-0 after defeating the Arizona Wildcats in overtime, 31-24. The team put forth an incredible offensive performance, forcing 5 turnovers in the game.

The Bulldogs will next face a tough challenge to open SEC play as the LSU Tigers will come to town.

Here are our 3 takeaways from the Bulldogs’ impressive win.

The defense was fantastic in the first half

In the first half alone, the Bulldogs forced 3 interceptions and 1 fumble. The Arizona Wildcats were held to just 7 points in the first half and struggled to get any kind of rhythm going.

The pass defense fell off a little in the 2nd half, as Arizona QB Jayden de Laura ended the day with over 300 yards and 2 TDs.

The run defense stayed strong all night however, with Arizona’s leading rusher having just 35 yards on the ground. Forcing turnovers and stopping the run are vital against SEC opponents.

Will Rogers did not play like Will Rogers

Rogers didn’t play terribly, but the Arizona defense kept him in check all night. Rogers completed 13-of-17 passes for just 162 yards and 3 TDs. Some pressure was taken off of Rogers due to the impressive performance from RB Jo’Quavious Marks, but it was still unusual to see Rogers throw so little.

Ultimately, Rogers did what he needed to do to put his team in position to win the game.

Jo’Quavious Marks is on his way to becoming a star

It’s a small sample size, but Marks has gone over 100 yards on the ground in both games this season. The running back collected 127 rushing yards in Week 1 and went for 123 yards in Week 2. Marks also added 4 catches for 32 yards.

If the Bulldogs can rely on having a solid running game, it will take much pressure off of the passing attack and give defenses trouble. Marks could be turning into the key piece the Bulldog offense has needed.

The Bulldogs will welcome the LSU Tigers to Starkville in Week 3.