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Rapid Reaction: Mississippi State cruises to blowout victory over ETSU in Egg Bowl-tuneup
By Andrew Olson
Published:
Mississippi State got in a pre-Egg Bowl tune-up on Saturday, defeating FCS program East Tennessee State 56-7 Saturday on Senior Day in Starkville.
Facing an FCS defense that struggles to stop the pass, Mike Leach’s Air Raid attack scored early and often. The Bulldogs did not have to kick in the first quarter and did not punt until the 4th quarter.
Mississippi State’s first 3 scores were Will Rogers touchdowns to Lideatrick Griffin and Rara Thomas. Griffin caught the first and third TDs of the game.
Emmanuel Forbes’ record-breaking pick-6 made it 28-0. Forbes now holds the records in the SEC and FBS for most career pick-6s with 6. Bulldog fans would love to see add to that total in the Egg Bowl.
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— Mississippi State Football (@HailStateFB) November 19, 2022
RB Jo’quavious Marks added a 22-yard rushing score making it 35-0, putting the game comfortably out of reach well before the half.
Leach’s squad could not ask for a much better tune-up heading into a rivalry showdown with a quick turnaround.
Everyone in the passing attack appears to be on the same page. Rogers finished 30-of-37 (81% complete) for 301 yards and 5 touchdowns without an interception.
On Senior Day, QB Chance Lovertich got some playing time. Lovertich gets to leave Davis Wade Stadium with a 6-of-6 performance for 36 yards and a TD.
Mississippi State did not get the shutout, but the defense is not to blame in this one. ETSU blocked a punt in the 4th quarter and returned it for a touchdown. It may not be the worst thing to get a reminder about the importance of special teams before a big rivalry game.
The Bulldogs got to shake off the Georgia loss and regain their confidence, moving to 7-4 with a big game on Thursday for state pride and standing in the SEC bowl pool.
Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.