Starkville, Mississippi, August 26, 2025
News Summary
Mississippi State Football is gearing up for its season opener against Southern Miss. Coach Jeff Lebby enters his second season after a challenging prior year, with significant roster changes including 65 new players. The Bulldogs aim to improve their game with 11 returning starters, focusing on key areas like pre-snap penalties and teamwork. As they prepare to face a newly structured Southern Miss team, excitement and determination are palpable in the Bulldogs’ camp.
Starkville, Mississippi – Mississippi State Football is set to open its 2025 season with an eagerly anticipated matchup against Southern Miss on Saturday, August 29, at 11 a.m. CT. The Bulldogs, under the leadership of coach Jeff Lebby, aim to turn around their fortunes after a disappointing 2-10 record in the previous season.
Entering his second season as head coach, Lebby brings over two decades of coaching experience to the program. Despite his extensive background, he acknowledges that there are still areas needing improvement and anticipates the nervous energy that comes with the first game of the season. This year, the Bulldogs are fielding a significantly restructured team, with 65 new players joining the roster. This includes 37 transfers from the transfer portal, 9 junior college recruits, and 19 true freshmen.
Among the returning players is quarterback Blake Shapen, who despite facing injury challenges last season, is considered a key component for the offense. The Bulldogs are retaining 11 starters from the 2024 season, which could provide them with a foundation to build upon. Coach Lebby has indicated that he will utilize a rotation of players along the offensive line to ensure depth and resilience, stressing the need for at least eight players capable of executing winning football.
The effectiveness of the offense will depend on the proper distribution of the ball and getting the right players involved. With a revamped roster, players’ performance will heavily influence the team’s strategy, particularly in the running back position, which may vary from game to game.
On the defensive side, improvements have been noted, characterized by a heightened sense of urgency and teamwork established during training camp. However, the Bulldogs face a challenge as they prepare to meet Southern Miss, who also introduces a new head coach, Charles Huff, and a roster filled with new talent. This makes Southern Miss an unpredictable opponent as they unveil their strategies for the upcoming game.
Preparation will be crucial for Mississippi State, as Coach Lebby highlighted the importance of addressing the unknowns associated with Southern Miss’s game plan. The emphasis will be on showcasing effort, physicality, and executing clean plays to maximize their opportunities. Lebby noted the critical need to minimize pre-snap penalties, maintain ball security, and manage special teams effectively throughout the contest.
The mood within the Bulldogs’ camp is one of excitement and determination as they gear up for the challenge ahead. There is a shared optimism for the season among players, particularly as they aim to improve on their last season’s record. As the team enters game week, reports indicate that overall health is good, with several players having returned to full participation in practice.
With the advantage of familiarity in the routines and travel as they approach the opener, the Bulldogs hope to translate that experience into a successful start to their season. As the 2025 campaign kicks off, Mississippi State is poised to establish their identity on the field under the direction of Coach Lebby.
FAQ
What date is Mississippi State’s season opener?
The season opener is scheduled for Saturday, August 29, 2025.
Who is the head coach of Mississippi State?
The head coach is Jeff Lebby, who is embarking on his second season with the team.
How many new players are on the Mississippi State roster?
There are 65 new players, including 37 from the transfer portal, 9 from junior college, and 19 true freshmen.
What was Mississippi State’s record last season?
Mississippi State finished the previous season with a record of 2-10.
Who is the quarterback for Mississippi State?
The quarterback is Blake Shapen, who is returning despite a shortened season last year due to an injury.
What does Coach Lebby emphasize for the upcoming game?
He emphasizes effort, physicality, execution, minimizing pre-snap penalties, and maintaining ball security.
Key Features of the Upcoming Season Opener
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Opponent | Southern Miss |
| Date | August 29, 2025 |
| Kickoff Time | 11 a.m. CT |
| Coach | Jeff Lebby |
| New Players | 65 (37 transfers, 9 junior college, 19 freshmen) |
| Returning Starters | 11 |
| Last Season Record | 2-10 |
| Quarterback | Blake Shapen |
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Mississippi State Surprises No. 10 Wake Forest with 2-1 Win
Mississippi State Football Team Prepares for New Season
Former Ole Miss WR Ayden Williams Transfers to Mississippi State
Fall Exhibition Game in Starkville Featuring Mississippi State Baseball
Starkville Shines Bright with “Starkville in the Spotlight” Event
Additional Resources
- 247 Sports: Mississippi State Depth Chart
- Clarion Ledger: MSU Football Highlights
- On3: Coach Jeff Lebby Analysis
- Dawn of the Dawg: Georgia Football Predictions
- WTVA: College Football Week 1 Game Times
- Wikipedia: Mississippi State Bulldogs Football
- Google Search: Mississippi State Football 2025
- Google Scholar: Mississippi State Football
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mississippi State
- Google News: Mississippi State Football
Author: STAFF HERE STARKVILLE WRITER
The STARKVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREstarkville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Starkville, Oktibbeha County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cotton District Arts Festival, Bulldog Bash, and Mississippi State University homecoming celebrations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Starkville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Mississippi State University Extension Service, plus leading businesses in education and agriculture that power the local economy such as Mississippi State University and Starkville Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
