Starkville, Mississippi, September 9, 2025
News Summary
Mississippi State University achieved a remarkable 24-20 victory against No. 12 ranked Arizona State, showcasing resilience with a last-minute touchdown. Quarterback Blake Shapen delivered a pivotal 58-yard touchdown pass to secure the win, and Hunter Washington’s interception sealed the deal. This victory is seen as a significant moment in the football program’s revival after facing struggles, including the passing of legendary coach Mike Leach. The win signifies hope for the Bulldogs as they prepare for their next matchup against Alcorn State, despite recent injuries to key players.
Starkville, Mississippi – Mississippi State University (MSU) achieved a stunning 24-20 victory over the No. 12 ranked Arizona State in a last-minute comeback, marking a significant moment in the football program’s revival. The game, hosted at Davis Wade Stadium, showcased MSU’s resilience, as the team was trailing by three points with less than a minute remaining on the clock.
Quarterback Blake Shapen made a game-changing play, throwing a 58-yard touchdown pass to Brenen Thompson, which secured the win for MSU. The celebration was heightened when defensive back Hunter Washington intercepted a pass near midfield to seal the victory, a pivotal moment credited with symbolizing the program’s emergence from three challenging years. Washington, notably, was part of former head coach Mike Leach’s last roster, a team that won nine games, including a bowl game victory.
This win is being heralded as potentially “the most cathartic win in MSU football history.” It signifies more than just a victory; it represents a closure to the struggles faced by the program, including the recent passing of legendary coach Mike Leach and a midseason coaching change. Head coach Jeff Lebby emphasized the importance of this win, indicating that it demonstrates the program is “trending the right way,” while still needing to make further improvements.
MSU had previously opened its season with a decisive victory against in-state rival Southern Miss, allowing the team to enter the game against Arizona State with a 1-0 record. The atmosphere in the stadium during the game was electric, buoyed by fans showcasing long-awaited loyalty and support, creating an environment reminiscent of the program’s historically successful days. Following the game, jubilant fans rushed the field in celebration, a move that resulted in a $500,000 fine from the SEC under its new policy concerning fans storming the field after significant victories.
The Mississippi State Bulldogs made history with this win, achieving their first victory over a top-15 nonconference opponent since 1991. This success comes amid challenges, including season-ending injuries suffered by two starters, Will Whitson and Blake Steen, during the game against Arizona State. Whitson, who was leading the team with impressive defensive stats, is now being considered for a medical redshirt as the team evaluates its options for his future.
Looking ahead, the Bulldogs are set to host Alcorn State next in their schedule, continuing momentum from this significant victory. However, they will also face several ranked teams in upcoming games, testing the depth and resilience of the team following the injuries sustained in this match. The atmosphere among fans and players in Starkville is filled with renewed hope following this latest win, signaling a potential resurgence for the MSU football program.
FAQ Section
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What was the outcome of the MSU vs. Arizona State game?
Mississippi State University defeated No. 12 Arizona State 24-20 in a last-minute comeback.
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What were some key plays in the game?
Blake Shapen threw a 58-yard touchdown pass to Brenen Thompson for the game-winning score, and Hunter Washington sealed the win with an interception.
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What does this victory signify for MSU?
This win is described as potentially one of the most cathartic in the program’s history, marking a turnaround period after challenges faced over the last three years.
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What are the implications of fans storming the field?
The post-game celebration led to a $500,000 fine imposed by the SEC due to a new policy regarding fans storming the field.
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What are the injury updates from the game?
Two offensive and defensive starters, Will Whitson and Blake Steen, suffered season-ending injuries during the match against Arizona State.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Game Result | MSU defeats No. 12 Arizona State 24-20 |
| Key Plays | 58-yard TD pass from Shapen to Thompson; Washington’s interception |
| Significance | Potentially most significant win in MSU football history |
| New SEC Fine | $500,000 fine for storming the field |
| Upcoming Games | Next game against Alcorn State; several ranked teams ahead |
| Injuries | Whitson and Steen – season-ending injuries |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Mississippi State Triumphs Over Arizona State at Home
Starkville Crowned Best Small Town in the South
Mississippi State Seniors Set to Shine in Upcoming Match
Mississippi State Volleyball Starts Season with Strong Victories
Starkville Prepares for High-Stakes Showdown vs Arizona State
Additional Resources
- CBS Sports
- ESPN
- 247 Sports
- Clarion Ledger
- Rocky Top Insider
- Wikipedia: Mississippi State Bulldogs football
- Google Search: Mississippi State University football
- Google Scholar: Mississippi State football analysis
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football
- 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.
