Starkville, Mississippi, September 23, 2025
News Summary
Tennessee football is gearing up for its first true road game against Mississippi State in Starkville. The Volunteers aim for their first win here since 2007, facing the challenge of a loud home crowd and a formidable Bulldogs team that boasts a strong defense, having not allowed more than 20 points in any game this season. The matchup is crucial for both teams as they navigate the competitive SEC landscape. With a white-out tradition in place, this matchup promises to be a challenging yet significant encounter for the Volunteers.
Starkville, Mississippi – Tennessee football is set to face Mississippi State in Starkville this Saturday, marking the Volunteers’ first true road game of the season. The kickoff is scheduled for 4:15 p.m. ET at Davis Wade Stadium and will be televised on the SEC Network. Tennessee will be aiming for their first win at Mississippi State since 2007, having last played there in 2012 and previously hosting Mississippi State in 2019 and 2024.
One of the significant challenges for Tennessee players is the unique home-field advantage provided by Mississippi State fans who utilize traditional cowbells, creating a highly demanding environment for opposing teams. This auditory challenge has already captured the attention of Tennessee players, including running back DeSean Bishop, who expressed excitement about experiencing the cowbell noise firsthand. He emphasized the importance of ball security, noting that Mississippi State’s defense is particularly physical.
Adding to the challenge, Mississippi State will host a white-out during the game, where the home team will wear all-white uniforms. This tradition honors the 2000 Mississippi State team, which won the Independence Bowl against Texas A&M while adorned in white during a snowstorm. The Bulldogs will don their “all-white 2025 core uniform” paired with white helmets featuring the interlocking MSU logo and maroon facemask. In contrast, the Volunteers are expected to wear some version of their iconic orange uniforms, as they will not be in traditional white jerseys for this road matchup.
Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel acknowledged the impact of the raucous atmosphere and highlighted the necessity for thorough preparation to help his team navigate the fray effectively. Mississippi State enters this matchup boasting a strong season, maintaining a 4-0 record and having already doubled their total win count from last season, where they finished at 2-10. The Bulldogs have shown formidable defensive prowess this campaign, not allowing more than 20 points in any game thus far, with a pass defense that permits an average of only 129 passing yards per game.
However, discipline remains a concern for Mississippi State, as the team has committed 41 penalties during the season, which could potentially influence their performance as they delve into SEC play against Tennessee.
Game Summary
- Game: Tennessee vs. Mississippi State
- Date: Saturday
- Kickoff Time: 4:15 p.m. ET
- Location: Davis Wade Stadium, Starkville, Mississippi
- TV Broadcast: SEC Network
Team Overview
| Team | Record | Defensive Stats | Uniforms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | To Be Determined | N/A | Orange Uniforms |
| Mississippi State | 4-0 | Allowed average of 129 passing yards per game | All-White Uniforms with White Helmets |
Background Context
The Volunteers have a rich history in SEC football, yet their struggles at Mississippi State serve as a reminder of the competitiveness within the league. In addition to facing a notoriously loud stadium environment, the Tennessee football team carries the weight of not having secured a win in Starkville for over 16 years. As the season progresses, this matchup is critical for both teams looking to establish momentum and prove themselves in a demanding conference.
FAQ
What is the significance of the white-out game at Mississippi State?
The white-out honors the 2000 Mississippi State team that won the Independence Bowl against Texas A&M while wearing white in a snowstorm.
What is Tennessee’s historical record at Mississippi State?
The Volunteers last played at Mississippi State in 2012 and have not won there since 2007.
What are some of Mississippi State’s defensive statistics this season?
Mississippi State has not allowed more than 20 points in any game this season and has a strong pass defense, allowing an average of only 129 passing yards per game.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Tennessee Opens as 8.5-Point Favorite Against Mississippi State
Mississippi State Bulldogs Remain Unranked Despite Undefeated Start
Mississippi State Bulldogs Dominate Northern Illinois in 38-10 Victory
Mississippi State Soccer Team Ends Winning Streak with Draw Against Auburn
Mississippi State Football Aims for 4-0 Start
Mississippi State University Dominates Northern Illinois in Starkville
Mississippi State Aims to Extend Winning Streak Against NIU
Mississippi State Bulldogs Prepare for Showdown with Northern Illinois Huskies
Mississippi State Bulldogs Preparing for Northern Illinois Huskies Showdown
Additional Resources
- Rocky Top Insider: Tennessee Uniforms
- Wikipedia: Tennessee Volunteers Football
- Pick Dawgz: Tennessee vs. Mississippi State Prediction
- Google Search: Tennessee vs Mississippi State Football
- Clarion Ledger: Mississippi State Football
- Google News: Mississippi State Bulldogs 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.
