Starkville, MS, September 16, 2025
News Summary
Mississippi State football achieved a commanding 63-0 win over Alcorn State, marking their first shutout since 2017. The young Bulldogs showcased their talent with significant contributions from underclassmen, including standout performances by running back Fluff Bothwell, who scored two touchdowns. The team amassed 514 yards of offense and saw a total of 16 players making their debut. This victory improves their record to 3-0 and positions them in the US LBM Coaches Poll at No. 34. The Bulldogs now prepare for upcoming challenges against Northern Illinois and Tennessee.
Starkville, MS – Mississippi State football secured a resounding victory over Alcorn State, defeating them 63-0 in a dominating performance that showcased the young talent of the Bulldogs. This game, which took place on Saturday, marked the Bulldogs’ first shutout since 2017.
The Mississippi State offense was prolific, accumulating a total of 514 yards during the game. The Bulldogs scored nine touchdowns, with significant contributions from underclassmen, who accounted for six of the nine scoring plays. Running back Fluff Bothwell emerged as a standout player, scoring two touchdowns with impressive runs of 3 and 25 yards. Additionally, sophomore players made their mark, as Xavier Gayten scored on a 25-yard run, and Seth Davis added another touchdown with a 23-yard rush.
Quarterback Luke Kromenhoek also made headlines, recording his first career rushing touchdown with a 3-yard run. Freshman quarterback Kamario Taylor showcased his skills by throwing his first collegiate touchdown, a 42-yard pass to wide receiver Brenen Thompson. Bothwell finished the game leading all rushers with 93 yards on 12 carries. Moreover, four players, including Davis, Taylor, and Gayten, averaged over ten yards per carry, demonstrating the Bulldogs’ efficiency on the ground.
Defensively, Mississippi State also made significant contributions, with redshirt sophomore linebacker Derion Gullette leading the team with five tackles. Meanwhile, defensive lineman DJ Reed made his presence felt by recording the only sack of the game. In a show of depth, a total of 16 players made their debut, including 10 true freshmen, highlighting the future potential for the program.
Following the victory, Mississippi State improved its record to 3-0 for the season and received 27 votes in the US LBM Coaches Poll, ranking the team at No. 34, an increase of 12 votes from the previous week. This is the first time the Bulldogs have been mentioned in the Coaches Poll since the end of the 2022 season.
Looking ahead, Mississippi State will face Northern Illinois on September 20 at Davis Wade Stadium. The Bulldogs then prepare for a significant matchup against Tennessee on September 27, with a kickoff scheduled for 4:15 p.m. ET in Starkville. Historically, Tennessee holds the advantage in this rivalry, having won eight of the last nine meetings against Mississippi State.
Game Summary
- Final Score: Mississippi State 63, Alcorn State 0
- Total Offense: 514 yards
- Touchdowns Scored: 9
- Standout Player: Fluff Bothwell (2 TDs, 93 yards)
- Debut Players: 16 (including 10 true freshmen)
Upcoming Matches
- Sept 20: vs Northern Illinois
- Sept 27: vs Tennessee (4:15 p.m. ET)
Background Context
This victory serves as a crucial moment for Mississippi State, reinforcing the program’s confidence early in the season. Coaches and fans alike are optimistic about the burgeoning talent within the team, particularly among underclassmen, which bodes well for the future. The Bulldogs have historically shown resilience and ability to produce competitive football teams, and this game highlights their potential as the season progresses.
FAQ
What was the final score of the Mississippi State vs. Alcorn State game?
The final score was Mississippi State 63, Alcorn State 0.
Who were the standout players in the game?
Fluff Bothwell stood out with two touchdowns and 93 rushing yards, while other noteworthy performances included Luke Kromenhoek’s first rushing touchdown and Kamario Taylor’s first collegiate touchdown pass.
What is the Bulldogs’ next game?
Mississippi State’s next game is against Northern Illinois on September 20 at Davis Wade Stadium.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Score | Mississippi State 63, Alcorn State 0 |
| Yards | Total offense of 514 yards |
| Touchdowns | Nine touchdowns scored |
| Debuts | 16 players made their debut, including 10 true freshmen |
| Next Opponent | Northern Illinois on September 20 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Starkville Hosts SEC Clash: Tennessee vs. Mississippi State
Starkville Prepares for SEC Showdown: Mississippi State vs. Tennessee
Mississippi State Football Set to Face Tennessee in SEC Opener
Mississippi State Achieves 63-0 Victory over Alcorn State
Mississippi State Bulldogs Dominate Alcorn State in Shutout Victory
Mississippi State Bulldogs Dominate Alcorn State in Shutout Victory
Additional Resources
- Mississippi State Football Updates
- Clarion Ledger: Mississippi State Rankings
- Knox News: Tennessee vs Mississippi State
- Athlon Sports: Mississippi State vs Alcorn State
- Google Search: Mississippi State Football
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.
