Southern Miss coach claims Mississippi State spent $15 million on offensive and defensive lines
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Southern Miss coach Charles Huff made some interesting comments about Mississippi State’s roster construction after his team lost to the Bulldogs in Week 1.
Southern Miss battled, but ultimately fell to Mississippi State 34-17. The Golden Eagles were out-scored 21-0 in what proved to be a decisive third quarter. After the game, Huff pointed to the resources he said Mississippi State put toward their offensive and defensive lines.
“They spent $15 million on their O-line and D-line,” Huff said after the game. “In the second half they should get a return on their investment. We’re built pretty good but we’re not built for that league.
“Obviously, we know that’s what they try to do. They try to wear you down. That’s what happens.”
Here’s video of his comments:
Unfortunately, there’s no public record that could confirm or dispute the amount of money Mississippi State spent on its 2025 roster in revenue sharing or in NIL.
Jeff Lebby and his staff were very active in the transfer portal this offseason after the Bulldogs had a disappointing season in 2024. Mississippi State signed 34 transfers in the class of 2025, per 247Sports. That group includes 9 offensive linemen and 8 defensive linemen (including edge rushers).
For Mississippi State, whatever investment it managed this offseason appears to be paying dividends. Last fall, the Bulldogs lost to Toledo at home in a marquee group-of-5 contest. Now, Mississippi State will take a 1-0 record into Week 2 when it hosts Arizona State.
Spenser is a news editor for Saturday Down South and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands.
