ESPN’s FPI predicts the outcome of Georgia at Mississippi State
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They say slow and steady wins the race, and Jeff Lebby appears to be embodying that philosophy in Starkville as the Mississippi State Bulldogs steadily gain momentum. Mississippi State has just one victory in the SEC and is only one win away from bowl eligibility. However, they will need to overcome Kirby Smart and the No. 5 Georgia Bulldogs in Week 11.
Can they achieve the improbable at Scott Field? While college football often loves a good upset and underdog story, ESPN’s Football Power Index (FPI) gives Georgia a commanding 79% chance of winning on the road, compared to Mississippi State’s 21%.
Georgia enters this matchup following a narrow 24-20 victory over the Florida Gators in Week 10. Quarterback Gunner Stockton led the offense with an impressive performance, throwing for 224 yards on 20 of 29 passing attempts, including two touchdowns and one interception. Running back Chauncey Bowens contributed significantly with nine carries for 70 yards and one touchdown, while wide receiver Zachariah Branch rounded out the offensive effort with ten receptions for 113 yards.
On the other hand, Mississippi State is riding high after a close win against Arkansas, finishing with a score of 38-35. Bulldogs quarterback Blake Shapen threw for 242 yards on 16 of 28 passes, achieving two touchdowns alongside one interception. Running back Kamario Taylor added to their success with six carries totaling 55 rushing yards and one touchdown. Wide receiver Anthony Evans III was also pivotal, recording five receptions for 111 yards and two touchdowns.
This matchup marks the 28th encounter between these two SEC teams. Historically, Georgia has dominated the series with a record of 21-6 against Mississippi State, currently enjoying a five-game winning streak.
Lebby and his team aim to halt Georgia’s momentum at home in Starkville, with kickoff scheduled for noon ET.
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!
