The Bulldogs escaped last weekend at home against UMass with a narrow win but that did not affect MSU’s standing in the College Football Playoff poll. Now Mississippi State gets Alabama in Starkville searching for arguably the biggest win of Dan Mullen’s head coaching career.

The Mississippi State coach spoke Wednesday during the SEC Coaches Teleconference.

Here’s a summary of what he had to say:

  • Opening comments: Our guys are working hard this week. Happy with the program we are building with the academic reports coming in.
  • Thoughts on Jalen Hurts improvement? He’s throwing the ball better, which is something all QBs have to improve on. New OC, he’s done well with that adjustment. He’s performing at a very high level.
  • Thoughts on JK Scott? He has a huge leg. We played them a few years ago and boom, he was a guy that plays his best when we play them. He fits what they do, he’s very sound.
  • How demoralizing can Scott be when he flips the field? That’s anywhere. You are lucky to get a stop and get field position, he’s a good weapon for them.
  • Thoughts on Todd Grantham’s addition? He is an extremely knowledgeable coach. I think people knew that. I think the way he’s adapted, adapting to the players. It’s a great fit for him. We are tough, blue collar and that fits what he is.
  • On the injuries Alabama has been hit with: I don’t know if they’ve had more on defense compared to how many we’ve had on offense. Their backups are usually five-stars, No. 1 at their position. Everyone is dealing with that right now and it’s about individuals stepping up when that happens.
  • Have you noticed your team being too hyped for this Alabama game? No, our guys are focusing on the plan and improving. If you are going to be a good team, you have to improve week after week.