Starkville MS, September 28, 2025
News Summary
In a thrilling overtime clash, Tennessee defeated Mississippi State 41-34 at Davis Wade Stadium. The game featured multiple lead changes and showcased Tennessee’s offensive strength. Despite Mississippi State’s strong start and efforts, they continue to seek their first SEC victory since October 2023, while Tennessee improves their record against the Bulldogs.
Starkville, Mississippi – Tennessee outlasted Mississippi State in an exciting overtime game on Saturday, September 27, with a final score of 41-34. The game, held at Davis Wade Stadium, showcased Tennessee’s strength in offense, which has been averaging 53.5 points per game, the highest in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
The match lasted nearly four hours and featured multiple lead changes, providing a thrilling experience for fans in attendance. Despite Mississippi State’s efforts, they remain in search of their first SEC win since October 2023. Entering this game, the Bulldogs held a disappointing 1-15 SEC record since the beginning of the 2023 season, the worst among power conference teams.
Tennessee, arriving with a 3-1 record and a recent decisive victory over UAB (56-24), demonstrated their offensive prowess early as Mississippi State won the toss and opted to receive. The Bulldogs started strong by scoring a touchdown to take an early 7-0 lead. Tennessee responded with a field goal, bringing the score to 7-3.
However, Tennessee quickly shifted momentum by securing a pick-six, giving them a 10-7 advantage. The competitive back-and-forth continued as Mississippi State retook the lead with another touchdown, pushing the score to 14-10. The teams headed into halftime tied at 17-17 after a field goal from Tennessee and a touchdown from Mississippi State.
The second half showcased a similar dynamic. Tennessee kicked a field goal to lead 20-17, but Mississippi State answered with a touchdown to regain the lead, now at 24-20. A crucial fumble by Tennessee allowed Mississippi State to capitalize, as they scored again and extended their lead to 34-27.
In a nail-biting finale, Tennessee managed to tie the game at 34-34 with a touchdown late in the fourth quarter, forcing the game into overtime. Ultimately, Tennessee triumphed with a final score of 41-34, marking their eighth victory in the last ten matchups against Mississippi State.
This latest loss keeps Mississippi State’s quest for an SEC victory ongoing, as they last secured a win in conference play in October 2023. Their record against Tennessee has been historically challenging, further compounded by their recent performance struggles this season.
The Volunteers will look to carry this momentum into their upcoming games, while Mississippi State will need to regroup in hopes of breaking their SEC losing streak.
Game Summary
- Final Score: Tennessee 41, Mississippi State 34 (OT)
- Game Duration: Nearly 4 hours
- Location: Davis Wade Stadium, Starkville, Mississippi
- Mississippi State’s Last SEC Win: October 2023
- Tennessee Record Before Game: 3-1
- Previous Win for Mississippi State: 38-10 against Northern Illinois
- Lead Changes: Multiple throughout the game
Key Statistics
| Statistic | Tennessee | Mississippi State |
|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game (Season Average) | 53.5 | N/A |
| Record Since 2023 Season | 3-1 | 1-15 (SEC) |
| Last Win Against Tennessee | 8 of Last 10 | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the game between Tennessee and Mississippi State?
The final score was Tennessee 41, Mississippi State 34 (OT).
What was Mississippi State’s record in the SEC since the beginning of the 2023 season?
Mississippi State holds a 1-15 SEC record since the beginning of the 2023 season, the worst among power conference teams.
How did the game affect Mississippi State’s quest for a conference win?
The loss keeps Mississippi State’s quest for their first SEC win since October 2023 ongoing.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- ESPN: Game Recap
- Wikipedia: Tennessee Volunteers Football
- Knox News: Live Updates
- Google Search: Tennessee vs Mississippi State
- CBS Sports: Matchup Details
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Football
- WATE: Overtime Thriller
- Google News: College Football Tennessee Mississippi State
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.
