Ad Disclosure
Here are some quick thoughts on Mississippi State’s 42-16 victory over Kentucky on Saturday.
What it means: The Bulldogs became bowl eligible for the sixth consecutive season, thanks to Saturday’s impressive showing. At 6-2 the Bulldogs could still pull a nice bowl game with continued positive results especially when you consider who is left on the schedule – West Division heavies Alabama, Ole Miss and Arkansas.
What I liked: The poise in the passing game from Dak Prescott. Prescott marched the Bulldogs up and down the field in impressive fashion. With good blocking up front, Prescott was able to slide the pocket while navigating the field to find open receivers all night long.
What I didn’t like: It might be nit picky, but over aggressiveness could have cost the Bulldogs if not for Prescott’s outstanding performance. It did, however, take points off the board early when eschewing a chip-shot field goal, the Bulldogs failed to convert on fourth-and-one. Later in the game, it also cost Prescott his first interception. Moving the ball almost at will with a methodical, efficient passing game, Prescott tried to go deep, and after throwing 288 straight without a pick, the third-longest streak in SEC history, his long heave was intercepted.
Who’s the man: Prescott was exceptionally magnificent on Saturday, putting up Heisman-like numbers. In addition to throwing for 348 yards (25-35-1) and three touchdowns, State’s leader rushed for another 117 yards (13 carries) and three more scores.
Key play: It was back-to-back plays that really turned the tide. With State leading 21-10 near halftime, DB Taveze Calhoun intercepted a Patrick Towles pass, and on the next play Prescott completed a pass to RB Brandon Holloway for 63 yards, setting up another score and a comfortable 28-10 lead.
What’s next: Mississippi State travels to Missouri for a 9 p.m. ET Thursday game and another SEC non-division contest. The Tigers have fallen off this season after back-to-back East Division titles. With three conference losses already, the Tigers (4-4) are still fighting for bowl eligibility.
Glenn Sattell is an award-winning freelance writer for Saturday Down South.
