Neyland Stadium, September 30, 2025
News Summary
Tennessee rallied from a seven-point deficit to secure a thrilling overtime victory against Mississippi State, winning 41-34 at Neyland Stadium. Joey Aguilar’s late touchdown run forced overtime, where DeSean Bishop scored the decisive touchdown on the first play. The game showcased impressive performances from both teams, with significant contributions from Tennessee’s defense and key offensive plays. With this win, Tennessee’s record improves to 4-1, while Mississippi State falls to 4-1 as both teams look ahead to their next matchups in the SEC.
Tennessee Defeats Mississippi State 41-34 in Overtime Thriller
Tennessee overcame a seven-point deficit to defeat Mississippi State 41-34 in an overtime thriller at Neyland Stadium. The victory improves Tennessee’s record to 4-1 and 1-1 in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), while Mississippi State falls to 4-1 overall. The game featured dramatic plays, with Joey Aguilar’s 6-yard touchdown run tying the game just before the end of regulation.
The Volunteers had initially trailed 34-27 following an interception by Zakari Tillman that led to a 2-yard touchdown run by Seydou Traore of Mississippi State. However, Tennessee responded strong, orchestrating a 13-play, 75-yard drive capped off by Aguilar’s touchdown run with only 1:55 left on the clock.
In overtime, Tennessee wasted no time, as DeSean Bishop scored on the first play with a 25-yard run, pushing the Volunteers ahead. Tennessee’s defense then distinguished itself, halting Mississippi State on downs inside the 5-yard line, sealing the victory for the home team.
Game Statistics and Player Highlights
Tennessee amassed a total of 466 yards of offense during the contest. Quarterback Joey Aguilar completed 24 of 40 passes for 335 yards, registering one touchdown along with two interceptions. The receiving corps was led by Mike Matthews, who had six receptions for 118 yards, while Chris Brazzell II also made significant contributions with six catches for 105 yards and a touchdown.
On the ground, DeSean Bishop rushed for 72 yards on 11 carries, enhancing the team’s offensive scheme. Tennessee’s defense was a standout, recording five sacks and 11 tackles for loss, including two defensive touchdowns resulting from an interception return and a fumble return.
Mississippi State quarterback Blake Shapen went 18 of 29 for 180 yards, with one touchdown and one interception. Running back Fluff Bothwell highlighted the Bulldogs’ offense with a remarkable 134 yards rushing on 23 carries, scoring two touchdowns. Their other touchdown came courtesy of Davon Booth.
First Half and Key Moments
The first half concluded with both teams tied at 17-17. Tennessee began scoring with a defensive touchdown off an interception return, giving them an early 10-7 lead. In the fourth quarter, Joshua Josephs returned a fumble for a touchdown, which temporarily put Tennessee ahead 27-24 before Mississippi State responded.
Looking Forward
Mississippi State missed a prime opportunity to improve to 5-0 and capture a win against a top 15 team. The Volunteers will next host Arkansas on October 11, while Mississippi State will visit Texas A&M on October 4, as both teams aim to regain momentum in the SEC.
FAQ
What was the final score of the game?
Tennessee defeated Mississippi State 41-34 in overtime.
How did Tennessee force overtime?
Joey Aguilar forced overtime with a 6-yard touchdown run with 1:55 remaining in the game.
Who scored the winning touchdown in overtime?
DeSean Bishop scored on a 25-yard run on the first play of overtime to secure the victory for Tennessee.
What was significant about Tennessee’s defense in this game?
Tennessee’s defense recorded five sacks and had 11 tackles for loss, including two defensive touchdowns from an interception return and a fumble return.
What are the upcoming games for Tennessee and Mississippi State?
Tennessee will next host Arkansas on October 11; Mississippi State will visit Texas A&M on October 4.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Hail State: State Falls in OT to No. 15 Tennessee
- Wikipedia: Tennessee Volunteers Football
- WTVA: No. 15 Tennessee rallies to beat Mississippi State
- Google Search: Tennessee Football
- Knox News: Tennessee vs Mississippi State Score Highlights
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football (Sport)
- Hail State: Bulldogs Fall Short Against Auburn
- Google News: Mississippi State Football
- Knox News: Live Updates Tennessee vs 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.
