Mississippi State Edges Missouri in Close Contest

What we said beforehand

The upcoming clash between the Mississippi State Bulldogs and the Missouri Tigers promises to be a significant encounter, as both teams enter the game with a perfect record of 3-0 this season. The match is set to take place at Davis Wade Stadium, starting on September 26, 2026, at 23:45 UTC.

Mississippi State has shown a strong offensive presence in their recent games, winning their last three matches. Their last five outings include victories over the South Carolina Gamecocks (41-34), Minnesota Golden Gophers (38-13), and UL Monroe Warhawks (62-13), with their only losses coming against the Ole Miss Rebels (19-38) and Wake Forest Demon Deacons (29-43). The Bulldogs have averaged 37.4 points scored in their last five games while allowing 29.4 points. Notably, their home record stands at 1-3, with a scoring average of 31.4 points and an average of 32.2 points allowed.

On the other hand, the Missouri Tigers are also riding a four-game winning streak, having recently defeated the Troy Trojans (27-17), Kansas Jayhawks (38-21), and Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions (54-14). Their only loss in the last ten games came against the Oklahoma Sooners (6-17). The Tigers have averaged 31.2 points scored in their last five games, while allowing just 17.2 points. Their away record is 3-2, showcasing their ability to perform well outside their home stadium.

In their previous meeting on November 16, 2025, Missouri emerged victorious against Mississippi State with a score of 49-27. This history adds an intriguing layer to the upcoming matchup, as the Bulldogs will be looking for revenge on their home turf.

In terms of individual performances, Mississippi State's Kamario Taylor leads in passing yards with 56 completions out of 82 attempts, totaling 832 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 1 interception. Fluff Bothwell has been a key player in the rushing department with 48 carries for 280 yards and 2 touchdowns. Meanwhile, Anthony Evans III has contributed significantly in the receiving game, recording 20 receptions for 294 yards and 3 touchdowns. For Missouri, Austin Simmons has completed 47 of 68 passes for 652 yards and 8 touchdowns, while Jamal Roberts leads in rushing with 63 carries for 300 yards and 3 touchdowns. Donovan Olugbode has been a standout in receiving, with 16 receptions totaling 259 yards and 4 touchdowns.

As for the betting market, DraftKings has set the odds with Mississippi State favored by 3.5 points. The total points over/under is set at 58.5, with over odds at -112 and under odds at -108. The moneyline for Mississippi State is -175, while Missouri sits at +145.

Weather conditions for the game are expected to be warm, with a temperature of 81°F, clear conditions, and light gusts of wind at 6 mph. This should provide a comfortable environment for both teams to showcase their talents.

As the game approaches, viewers should watch for the offensive strategies employed by both teams, particularly how Mississippi State's passing game matches up against Missouri's defensive capabilities. Additionally, the performance of the rushing attacks will be crucial in determining the outcome, especially with both teams featuring standout players in that area. The Bulldogs will aim to leverage their home advantage, while the Tigers will look to continue their winning streak and capitalize on their previous success against Mississippi State.