Mississippi State has scored only 13 combined points during its two-game losing streak, a surprising fall from the rankings that has caused fans to worry about quarterback Nick Fitzgerald’s ability in coach Joe Moorhead’s offense.

Moorhead was asked about those issues during Wednesday’s SEC Coaches Teleconference, stating his belief that Fitzgerald will improve in the Bulldogs’ new system as the season continues. Mississippi State (3-2, 0-2 SEC) could use some improvement this weekend as it hosts No. 8 Auburn (4-1, 1-1 SEC) at 7:30 p.m. ET on Saturday.

Here’s what Moorhead said about the offense during his portion of the teleconference.

On simplifying the offense, how does that work as the playcaller?

  • I don’t think it’s simplification as it is our execution and how we run them. Precision is of the utmost importance.

On Auburn’s defensive front and picking up blitzes:

  • It’s a huge challenge, when you look at the four up front starting with Derrick Brown. He does things on film that’s amazing.. He’s hurdling cut blocks, and there’s no drop-off. … It will be a huge challenge for us.

On QB Nick Fitzgerald:

  • He’s responded favorably. We knew there would be growing pains after missing spring but that we have to be smart and put him in position to maximize his strengths, minimizing his weaknesses … and he will improve as time goes forward.