ESPN’s FPI predicts the outcome for Mississippi State vs Mizzou
Published:
The Missouri Tigers are eager to end their two-game losing streak and secure a crucial victory in conference play as they aim to regain momentum and avoid slipping further down the rankings. Coach Jeff Lebby’s Mississippi State team, meanwhile, arrives in Columbia seeking its second conference win, with the added goal of becoming bowl eligible.
ESPN’s Football Power Index (FPI), Mizzou has the edge in this matchup, boasting a 74.7% chance of achieving their third conference win against Mississippi State, which stands at 25.3% for securing bowl eligibility on the road.
RELATED: Online sports betting is coming soon in the state of Missouri! Follow SDS for updates on the launch and how to score a Fanatics Sportsbook Missouri promo!
The Tigers are looking to rebound at home after suffering defeats in their last two games, including a disappointing 38-17 loss to Texas A&M. Quarterback Matt Zollers faced challenges against the Aggies, completing only 7 of 22 passes. The Tigers have leaned heavily on their ground game, led by running back Ahmad Hardy, who has also rushed for 1,685 yards. In terms of receiving threats, Kevin Coleman Jr. has emerged as one of the primary pass-catchers with 559 receiving yards.
Mississippi State is attempting to turn around its fortunes after dropping four out of its last five outings. In the Week 11 loss to Georgia, freshman quarterback Kamario Taylor stepped in during the third quarter after Blake Shapen left due to injury and completed 6 out of 10 passes for the Bulldogs. Running back Fluff Bothwell leads the ground attack with 524 rushing yards so far this season, while Brenen Thompson remains a key target in the passing game with 808 receiving yards. On defense, Mississippi State faces its own challenges as well, surrendering an average of 35 points over its last five contests.
It remains uncertain whether veteran quarterback Blake Shapen will return for the Bulldogs against Mizzou; he has thrown for a total of 2,234 yards this season, but has dealt with injuries. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:45 PM ET at Memorial Stadium in Columbia.
Lee Ann joins the Saturday Down South team, bringing over fifteen years of experience covering the SEC as both a sports journalist and football scout. With her keen eye for talent, she has also flexes her skills as the Director of Recruiting for the Rebel Walk( Ole Miss) Herring, is a staff writer at USA Today Sports Wildcats Wire, where she dives into the thrilling world of Kentucky football and basketball. When fall rolls around, you can catch her on air as an analyst for the Wake up 502 College Football Show on Big X Sports Radio 96.1 FM—because who doesn't love a good game day chat? A proud Brown University alum, Lee Ann balances her time between the sidelines and press box with her passion for coaching her boys' youth lacrosse and savoring a fine glass of bourbon alongside a good cigar. So, whether she's dissecting plays or rallying the next generation of athletes, Lee Ann is your spirited insider ready to tackle all things SEC!
