Even though Mississippi State has dropped to 1-4 with four straight losses, there is some reason for optimism in Starkville, according to coach Mike Leach.

“Honestly, it’s committed to improve,” Leach said about the mood in the locker room. “Not happy with the results. I think Kobe Jones does a really great job as far as keeping the energy and spirit of our locker room at a high level, and to be honest with you, I think we’d improve even quicker if we had more Kobe Joneses. The guys that echo the message and lead by example type of thing.”

Leach also explained what keeps him encouraged about the outlook of the season.

“I like the enthusiasm that our team has,” Leach said. “Also, just to get as good as you possibly can one week to the next and some of these guys are young enough that I’m really excited to go through the offseason, spring and see what develops there as well.”

Leach said the transition for a first-year coach and staff has had a lot of stops and starts, but he’s glad to be able to play this season.

The Bulldogs look to get back on track this week when they play Vanderbilt in Starkville.