Starkville MS, October 23, 2025
News Summary
The Mississippi State Bulldogs will face the No. 22 Texas Longhorns this Saturday, looking for their first SEC win in 735 days. After a challenging season with 15 consecutive SEC losses under head coach Jeff Lebby, the Bulldogs are determined to turn things around. The game, airing on SEC Network, will showcase improvements, particularly in defense, while acknowledging ongoing struggles on offense. This matchup offers Mississippi State a crucial opportunity to break their losing streak and gain momentum in the SEC.
Starkville, MS – The Mississippi State Bulldogs are set to face the No. 22 Texas Longhorns this Saturday, seeking their first Southeastern Conference (SEC) victory in 735 days. The game will kick off at 3:15 p.m. CT and will be broadcast on the SEC Network.
The Bulldogs are currently on a three-game losing streak in SEC play and had previously opened their season with a strong 4-0 record against non-conference teams. Their last outing ended in a narrow 23-21 loss to Florida, where the team had an opportunity to win but a critical interception by quarterback Blake Shapen thwarted their chances.
Under head coach Jeff Lebby, Mississippi State has not secured a win in SEC competition, suffering through 15 consecutive losses dating back to the previous coaching era. With this upcoming game, the Bulldogs will mark two years since their last SEC win—which occurred on Tuesday—extending their loss streak to 735 days by game time. Coach Lebby has expressed frustration with the team’s ongoing struggles, emphasizing the need to convert close opportunities into victories.
Despite the team’s setbacks, improvements have been noted, especially in the defensive unit. Mississippi State’s defense has advanced this season, ranked fifth in the SEC, holding opponents to a 59.0 completion percentage and leading the conference with 10 interceptions. However, weaknesses remain, particularly in their rushing defense which allows an average of 164 yards per game.
On the offensive side, Mississippi State has introduced a dynamic approach partly due to the addition of former Longhorn wide receiver Brenen Thompson, alongside other playmakers like Anthony Evans III. The team utilizes a two-back rushing system currently led by Davon Booth, particularly since fellow running back Fluff Bothwell has been carted off and is unlikely to return soon. The Bulldogs rank in the top 50 nationally for rushing yards per game, averaging 177.9 yards, and are tied for 15th in the country with 19 rushing touchdowns.
As they prepare to compete against Texas, head coach Steve Sarkisian has acknowledged Mississippi State’s ongoing improvements, which will provide insights into the evolving culture under Coach Lebby and how they stack up against a competing team still determining its offensive identity after a rocky start to the season.
Key Matchup Facts
- Mississippi State has not won in SEC play since the new coaching regime began, which includes 15 consecutive losses.
- The upcoming game marks 735 days since the Bulldogs last won an SEC game.
- Texas Longhorns are currently ranked No. 22 in the AP Top 25.
- Mississippi State’s defense ranks fifth in the SEC with 10 interceptions and a completion percentage allowed of 59.0.
- The Bulldogs’ dynamic offense leads to a two-back rushing system with Davon Booth at the helm due to injuries in the squad.
Game Details
Kickoff: Saturday, 3:15 p.m. CT
Broadcast: SEC Network
Looking Ahead
The upcoming clash between the Longhorns and Bulldogs presents a crucial opportunity for Mississippi State to break their lengthy SEC losing streak. As Texas visits Starkville, all eyes will be on whether the Bulldogs can capitalize on their strengths and finally capture a much-needed conference victory.
FAQ
When was the last SEC victory for Mississippi State Bulldogs?
Tuesday marked the two-year anniversary of Mississippi State’s last SEC win, which means their current losing streak will extend to 735 days by the time of the upcoming game.
What is Mississippi State’s current SEC record?
The Bulldogs are 0-11 in SEC play since head coach Jeff Lebby took over, encompassing a span of 15 consecutive SEC losses dating back to the previous coaching era.
How has Mississippi State’s defense performed this season?
Mississippi State’s defense has made considerable strides this season but still has weaknesses, allowing 164 rushing yards per game. The defense ranks fifth in the SEC, allowing a 59.0 completion percentage and is leading the SEC with 10 interceptions.
Key Features Comparison
| Feature | Mississippi State Bulldogs | Texas Longhorns |
|---|---|---|
| Current SEC Record | 0-11 | Ranked No. 22 |
| Last SEC Victory | 735 days ago | N/A |
| Defense Completion Percentage | 59.0% | N/A |
| Average Rushing Yards Allowed | 164 yards/game | N/A |
| Interceptions | 10 | N/A |
| Total Offense | 177.9 rushing yards/game, 19 rushing touchdowns | N/A |
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Additional Resources
- Burnt Orange Nation
- Sports Illustrated
- AZ Central
- USA Today
- Clarion Ledger
- Wikipedia: Mississippi State Bulldogs football
- Google Search: Texas Longhorns
- Google Scholar: Mississippi State football
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Texas Longhorns football
- Google News: Mississippi State football news
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.
