Starkville, Mississippi, September 9, 2025
News Summary
In a remarkable upset at Davis Wade Stadium, the Mississippi State Bulldogs defeated the No. 12 Arizona State Sun Devils 24-20. This victory, marked by a thrilling game-winning touchdown from wide receiver Brenen Thompson, sparked a euphoric post-game celebration. However, the enthusiasm led to a $500,000 fine for the university due to fans rushing the field. Despite ongoing challenges from player injuries, the Bulldogs’ win against a ranked opponent reignites hope among the team’s supporters as they prepare for a competitive season ahead.
Starkville, Mississippi – In a thrilling upset, the Mississippi State Bulldogs defeated the No. 12 Arizona State Sun Devils 24-20 at Davis Wade Stadium on Saturday, marking a significant victory for the home team. The win not only brought joy to the fans but also led to a post-game celebration that resulted in a $500,000 fine for the university due to the crowd rushing the field.
The game-winning moment came when wide receiver Brenen Thompson caught a touchdown pass that sparked one of the loudest reactions from the audience, creating an electric atmosphere at the stadium. Social media exploded with excitement following the game; fans and commentators alike expressed their disbelief and joy, with one declaring it his favorite sports moment in a decade. Creative memes circulated online, including one in response to Arizona State’s coach comments about hotel availability in Starkville.
Former Mississippi State players also shared their enthusiasm on various platforms, signaling their intent to visit Starkville in the future as a result of the jubilant occasion. After the game concluded, fans rushed to the field, leading to the goalposts being torn down and carried out, a common tradition at celebratory events.
Despite the victory, Mississippi State will face a $500,000 fine from the Southeastern Conference (SEC), as per the league’s updated policy that imposes a flat penalty when fans storm the field. This fine, while substantial, supports the SEC’s post-graduate scholarship fund.
The victory over Arizona marked Mississippi State’s first win against a ranked opponent since defeating No. 20 Ole Miss in the 2022 Egg Bowl. This win provided a rare moment of celebration for Bulldogs fans, who have endured a disappointing record of 7-17 over the last two seasons. The enthusiasm and excitement exhibited by fans may have been the loudest heard in the stadium’s history, showcasing their undying support for the team.
Arizona State fans voiced complaints regarding the stadium’s noise, particularly the signature cowbells that many believe contribute to an unfair playing environment. Mississippi State’s head coach acknowledged the importance of the victory and expressed hope for continued success in the upcoming games.
Challenges remain, as several players sustained injuries during the game. Offensive lineman Blake Steen and defensive lineman Will Whitson have been confirmed as out for the season. Whitson was a key contributor leading the team with two sacks and 4.5 tackles for loss before his injury. Mississippi State aims to unify the team in the wake of these setbacks and is exploring medical redshirt options for injured players.
Looking ahead, the Bulldogs are scheduled to play against six currently ranked teams, adding to the intensity of their upcoming season. The victory against Arizona State marks a crucial step in rebuilding the team, and Mississippi State is hopeful for a turnaround in their season as they move forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Mississippi State incur a $500,000 fine?
Mississippi State incurred a $500,000 fine due to fans rushing the field after the game, in accordance with the SEC’s updated policy that imposes an automatic fine for such actions.
Who was the standout player in the game against Arizona State?
Wide receiver Brenen Thompson was a standout player, catching the game-winning touchdown in a thrilling finish to the match.
What challenges does Mississippi State face moving forward?
Mississippi State is facing challenges due to injuries to key players, including offensive lineman Blake Steen and defensive lineman Will Whitson, who are out for the season.
Key Features of the Mississippi State vs. Arizona State Game
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Score | Mississippi State 24, Arizona State 20 |
| Location | Davis Wade Stadium, Starkville, Mississippi |
| Game-Winning Play | Brenen Thompson’s touchdown catch |
| SEC Fine | $500,000 for fan field storming |
| Team Record | Mississippi State’s first win over a ranked opponent since 2022 |
| Injuries | Blake Steen and Will Whitson out for the season |
| Future Challenges | Six upcoming games against ranked teams |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Columbus-Tupelo Area Hosts Thrilling High School Football Weekend
Mississippi State University Triumphs Over Arizona State
Mississippi State University Fined for Post-Game Celebration
Starkville Celebrates Mississippi State’s Victory Over Arizona State
Mississippi State Football Claims Victory Over Arizona State
Mississippi State Upsets No. 12 Arizona State in Thrilling Game
Mississippi State University Triumphs Over Arizona State
Mississippi State Bulldogs Triumph Over Arizona State
Mississippi State Upsets Arizona State in Home Opener
Additional Resources
- CBS Sports: Mississippi State Fined $500,000
- ESPN: Mississippi State Fined for Field Storming
- 247 Sports: Game Recap of Mississippi State vs. Arizona State
- Wikipedia: College Football
- Google Search: Mississippi State Football 2025
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.
