News Summary
Da’Marion ‘Fluff’ Bothwell, a talented running back for Mississippi State University, is making waves after overcoming a family tragedy. Following a fire that destroyed his home, Bothwell has adopted a stronger perspective on life and priorities. His transfer to Mississippi State not only highlights his dedication as an athlete but also showcases his resilience and the strong community support from his hometown. Known for his physical playing style and positive energy, Bothwell is set to make a significant impact on the team’s competitive landscape this season.
Starkville, Mississippi – Da’Marion “Fluff” Bothwell, a running back for Mississippi State University, is showing remarkable resilience after overcoming a family tragedy that has shaped his perspective on life and football. Bothwell announced his transfer to Mississippi State exactly one year after his family home in Oneonta, Alabama, was destroyed by a fire on Christmas Eve.
None of Bothwell’s family members were harmed in the fire, an event that has led him to adopt a more profound appreciation for life and to prioritize his relationships over material possessions. The positive community support from his hometown of Oneonta and Asheville has further strengthened his resolve during this challenging period.
Prior to joining Mississippi State, Bothwell had an impressive freshman season at South Alabama. He achieved notable success, rushing 111 times for 832 yards and leading the Sun Belt Conference with 13 touchdowns. His performance showcased his potential as a formidable athlete in college football.
When exploring his options to transfer, Bothwell felt an immediate connection with the Mississippi State program. His visit revealed a welcoming atmosphere, nurtured by the coaching staff, particularly coaches Jeff Lebby and Anthony Tucker. Bothwell’s sense of belonging was further solidified by the relationships he forged with his teammates, including freshman quarterback KaMario Taylor, with whom he now shares an apartment.
Bothwell’s arrival adds depth to Mississippi State’s competitive running back room, which also includes experienced players like Davon Booth and Johnnie Daniels, alongside fellow freshmen Kolin Wilson and Geron Johnson. Coach Anthony Tucker has emphasized Bothwell’s positive energy and strong work ethic, indicating that he has seamlessly integrated into the team’s culture.
Known for his bruising and physical playing style, Bothwell contributes to the competitiveness of the team’s practices, pushing himself and his teammates to excel. He has expressed the importance of teamwork and camaraderie, cherishing the support from teammates like Booth, who have become integral to his transition into the Mississippi State Bulldogs program.
Despite the competitive nature of the running back position and the depth of talent on the roster, Bothwell remains focused on personal improvement and contributing to the overall success of the team. His experiences have equipped him with a unique perspective, driving him to strive for excellence both on and off the field.
As he embarks on this new chapter with Mississippi State, Bothwell’s journey reflects not only his growth as an athlete but also his resilience in the face of adversity. The coming season will showcase his determination and dedication in life and sports.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Changes in East Mississippi Community College Cheerleading Squad
Mississippi State Soccer Welcomes Recognition for Ally Perry
Mississippi State University Welcomes Junior College Transfer Jahron Manning
Prime Dumpster Expands Roll-Off Services in Starkville
Former MSU Player Faces Assault Charges in Court
Brenen Thompson: Key Player for Mississippi State Bulldogs
Twin Basketball Recruits Schedule Visit to Mississippi State
Bulldogs Prepare for Upcoming Women’s Basketball Season
Starkville Welcomes Linebacker Jalen Smith and Art Briles
Mississippi State Baseball Producing Major League Talent
Additional Resources
- Starkville Daily News
- Google Search: Da’Marion Bothwell
- On3 Sports
- Wikipedia: Mississippi State Bulldogs Football
- Djournal
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Football
- Hail State
- Google News: Mississippi State Football
- Maroon and White Nation
- Google Scholar: Mississippi State Bulldogs
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.


