Starkville, Mississippi, September 9, 2025
News Summary
Mississippi State University’s football team is gearing up for their upcoming match against Alcorn State following a hard-fought victory over No. 12 Arizona State. The Bulldogs celebrated their 24-20 win, which comes with a hefty $500,000 fine from the SEC due to fans storming the field. As they look ahead, the team faces injury challenges with key players out for the season. Coach Jeff Lebby emphasizes the need for improvement as they enter a challenging schedule.
Starkville, Mississippi – Mississippi State University’s football team is preparing for its next match against Alcorn State following an exciting victory against then-No. 12 Arizona State. The Bulldogs secured a 24-20 win, marking their first triumph over a ranked opponent since defeating Ole Miss in the 2022 Egg Bowl.
The outcome of the Arizona State game led to a significant reaction from Mississippi State fans, who stormed the field in celebration. However, the celebration came at a cost; the Southeastern Conference (SEC) has imposed a $500,000 fine on the university. This fine is part of a new enforcement policy introduced this season, which penalizes teams whose fans enter the field after a game.
Looking ahead, the Bulldogs will face Alcorn State on September 13 at 5 p.m. at Davis Wade Stadium. Alcorn State currently holds a record of 0-2, having lost both of their road games this season—20-10 against Northwestern State and 41-31 against Alabama A&M.
Coach Jeff Lebby has emphasized the importance of maintaining a consistent routine and improving week by week. The Bulldogs have a challenging season ahead, with six additional games scheduled against ranked teams.
In terms of player status, Mississippi State will be missing key players due to injuries. Defensive lineman Will Whitson and offensive lineman Blake Steen have both been ruled out for the remainder of the season. Whitson, who had been a standout player with two sacks and 4.5 tackles for loss, sustained his injury during the Arizona State game. The university is exploring the option of a medical redshirt waiver that would allow him to return next season.
Steen was injured before halftime in the game against Southern Miss and did not play against Arizona State. In his absence, Albert Reese IV has stepped in as the starting right tackle; he recently earned Co-SEC Offensive Lineman of the Week honors for his performance against Arizona State. Additionally, Jayvin Q. James, a transfer from Maryland, has taken on the role of the starting left tackle for the Bulldogs.
Upcoming Game Details
- Opponent: Alcorn State
- Date and Time: September 13 at 5 p.m.
- Location: Davis Wade Stadium, Starkville, Mississippi
Injury Report
- Will Whitson: Out for season (2 sacks, 4.5 tackles for loss)
- Blake Steen: Out for season (injured before halftime against Southern Miss)
- Albert Reese IV: Starting right tackle
- Jayvin Q. James: Starting left tackle
Season Outlook
Mississippi State’s upcoming match against Alcorn State presents an opportunity to build momentum despite injuries. With a challenging schedule against highly-ranked teams, the focus will remain on execution and improvement on the field.
FAQ
What was the outcome of the recent game against Arizona State?
Mississippi State won 24-20 against Arizona State, marking their first victory against a ranked opponent since the 2022 Egg Bowl.
What is the penalty for fans storming the field?
The SEC has imposed a $500,000 fine on Mississippi State as a result of fans storming the field after the Arizona State game.
Who are the key injured players on the Mississippi State football team?
Defensive lineman Will Whitson and offensive lineman Blake Steen are both out for the season due to injuries. Whitson was injured during the Arizona State game, and Steen was injured before halftime against Southern Miss.
When is Mississippi State’s next game?
Mississippi State will play Alcorn State on September 13 at 5 p.m. at Davis Wade Stadium in Starkville, Mississippi.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Recent Victory | Against Arizona State (24-20) |
| SEC Penalty | $500,000 fine for field storming |
| Next Opponent | Alcorn State (0-2 record) |
| Injured Players | Will Whitson, Blake Steen (out for the season) |
| New Starters | Albert Reese IV (RT), Jayvin Q. James (LT) |
| Future Challenges | 6 more games against ranked opponents |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Mississippi State University Claims Victory Over Arizona State
Mississippi State Fined Following Fans Rushing the Field
Mississippi State Upsets Arizona State in Thrilling Victory
Mississippi State Fined After Field Storming Incident
Competition for Clarion Ledger Athlete of the Week Intensifies
Mississippi State Bulldogs Upset No. 12 Arizona State Sun Devils
Arizona State to Face Mississippi State in Key College Football Showdown
Columbus-Tupelo Area Hosts Thrilling High School Football Weekend
Mississippi State University Triumphs Over Arizona State
Mississippi State University Fined for Post-Game Celebration
Additional Resources
- CBS Sports: Mississippi State fined $500,000 for fans storming the field
- ESPN: Mississippi State fined for field storming
- Arizona Sports: Arizona State not ranked
- 247 Sports: Will Whitson update for Mississippi State
- Google Search: Mississippi State football injury report
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.
