Starkville MS, September 20, 2025
News Summary
Mississippi State University (MSU) prepares to take on Northern Illinois University (NIU) in a crucial nonconference football game. The Bulldogs, riding a robust 3-0 record, look to maintain their momentum at Davis Wade Stadium. NIU, nursing a 1-1 record after a recent loss, will present a strong defensive challenge. With key players like running backs Fluff Bothwell and Davon Booth leading the charge for MSU, the match promises to be a thrilling clash as both teams seek victory.
Starkville: Mississippi State Looks to Keep Winning Streak Alive Against Northern Illinois
The excitement is building in Starkville as Mississippi State University (MSU) gears up for their final nonconference football clash against Northern Illinois University (NIU). The game is set to kick off at 3:15 p.m. this Saturday at Davis Wade Stadium, and fans can catch all the action live on the SEC Network.
Currently, the Bulldogs are riding high with an impressive 3-0 record, while NIU is looking to bounce back from a recent setback, boasting a 1-1 record after taking a week off following a 20-9 loss to Maryland.
Running Game Highlights for MSU
One of the big stories in this matchup is the strength of MSU’s running game. The Bulldogs have a dynamic duo in running backs Fluff Bothwell and Davon Booth, which will rely heavily on a strong performance from their offensive line. Throughout the first three games, Mississippi State has averaged nearly five yards per carry on an eye-popping 107 attempts. They’ve found the end zone on the ground nine times, with seven of those touchdowns coming specifically in the red zone. Coach Jeff Lebby emphasizes how crucial it is to wear down the opposition when they get into scoring territory.
On the other side, NIU has shown formidable defense, allowing only 2.74 yards per carry and an average of 74 rushing yards per game over their first two outings. This defensive resilience suggests that the Bulldogs may face a tough battle against NIU’s front seven.
Pass Game Insights and Key Players
While the rushing attack is critical, the passing game has also been notable for MSU. Quarterback Blake Shapen has been a reliable force with an impressive adjusted yardage of 9.43 yards per pass attempt and a completion rate of 68.8%. Additionally, the Bulldogs have several standout receivers, including Brenen Thompson, Anthony Evans, and Jordan Mosley, who have each tallied multiple receiving touchdowns of 50 or more yards.
NIU’s Struggles in Offense
On the flip side, Northern Illinois has faced challenges offensively, managing only two touchdowns in two games and averaging just underneath 100 passing yards per game. Both touchdowns have come from running backs Chavon Wright and Telly Johnson Jr. Meanwhile, quarterback Josh Holst has had a tough time stepping up in his first season as a full-time starter.
Defensive Matchup: A Key to Victory
MSU’s defense will also play a pivotal role in today’s matchup. They are determined to stop NIU’s run game while putting pressure on Holst, especially in the absence of their leading pass rusher Will Whitson. Key defensive players like Deonte Anderson, Trevion Williams, Red Hibbler, and Montrell Chapman are gearing up to elevate their game in Whitson’s absence. The defensive line, bolstered by Kedrick Bingley-Jones, DJ Reed, Jaray Bledsoe, Kalvin Dinkins, and Jamil Burroughs, will aim to keep Northern Illinois in check.
Looking Ahead
MSU has a chance to start the season with a 4-0 record for the first time since 2014. With Northern Illinois having recently demonstrated resilience against a richer-resource Big Ten opponent, this game’s outcome could hinge on how both teams capitalize on their strengths and tackle their weaknesses.
As the match approaches, Mississippi State is favored by 22.5 points, with an over/under of 48.5. Football fans in Starkville won’t want to miss this exciting clash!
FAQ
What is Mississippi State’s current record?
Mississippi State holds a 3-0 record heading into the game.
What is Northern Illinois’s record heading into the game?
Northern Illinois has a record of 1-1 after a week off following a 20-9 loss to Maryland.
When does the game take place?
The game takes place at 3:15 p.m. on Saturday.
Where can fans watch the game?
The game will be televised on the SEC Network.
How has Northern Illinois performed defensively?
NIU’s defense has allowed just 2.74 yards per carry and 74 rushing yards per game across two games.
What is Mississippi State’s strength in their running game?
MSU averages nearly five yards per carry over 107 attempts and has nine rushing touchdowns with seven scored in the red zone.
How many touchdowns has NIU scored this season?
NIU’s offense has struggled, with only two touchdowns in two games, averaging just under 100 passing yards per game.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- NIU Huskies Official Site
- Hero Sports: NIU vs Mississippi State Prediction
- Clarion Ledger: Three Keys to Victory for MSU
- Hustle Belt: NIU Football Week 4 Preview
- CBS Sports: NIU’s Strategy Against MSU
- Wikipedia: Northern Illinois Huskies Football
- Google Search: Northern Illinois Huskies Football
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Northern Illinois Huskies Football
- Google News: Northern Illinois Huskies
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.
