Starkville, Mississippi, September 9, 2025
News Summary
Mississippi State University achieved a thrilling 24-20 victory against Arizona State University during a homecoming game at Davis Wade Stadium. The Bulldogs, led by quarterback Blake Shapen, secured a significant win with impressive offensive plays and strong defensive maneuvers. MSU took an early lead and despite a late surge from ASU, the Bulldogs showcased their potential for a successful season. The win marks MSU’s first victory over a ranked opponent since 2022, although concerns arise with injuries to key players.
Starkville, Mississippi – Mississippi State University (MSU) stunned Arizona State University (ASU) with a thrilling 24-20 victory on September 6, 2025, during a highly anticipated homecoming game at Davis Wade Stadium. This win marks MSU’s most significant triumph against a ranked opponent under the direction of head coach Jeff Lebby, showcasing the team’s potential as they aim for a successful season.
MSU demonstrated dominance early in the game, racing to a 17-0 lead in the first half. Quarterback Blake Shapen had an impressive performance, completing 19 of 33 passes for 279 yards and three touchdown passes. His notable throws included a 48-yard touchdown pass to Anthony Evans III, just over a minute into the game, and a 47-yard completion to Brenen Thompson in the second quarter. Shapen sealed the game with a spectacular 58-yard touchdown pass to Thompson with only 30 seconds remaining.
Adding to the scoring, kicker Kyle Ferrie successfully converted a 37-yard field goal to solidify MSU’s first-half performance. The Bulldogs’ defense proved formidable, allowing a mere 95 total yards to ASU in the first half and forcing critical plays, including a game-changing interception by Jayven Williams.
Arizona State, not to be outdone, managed to narrow the gap by scoring a 52-yard field goal just before halftime, making the score 17-3. The second half saw ASU gain momentum, scoring two touchdowns and taking a 20-17 lead at one point. However, it was Mississippi State’s late-game heroics, highlighted by Shapen and Thompson’s connection, that ultimately secured the dramatic win.
Following the game, ecstatic MSU fans stormed the field in celebration, resulting in the tearing down of goalposts. This celebration, however, came at a cost, as the Southeastern Conference (SEC) imposed a $500,000 fine on MSU for violating a new field storming policy implemented earlier this year.
This victory marked MSU’s first win over a ranked opponent since defeating No. 20 Ole Miss during the 2022 Egg Bowl. Despite the triumph, MSU faced setbacks with coach Jeff Lebby announcing that starters Will Whitson and Blake Steen suffered season-ending injuries during the match, which raises concerns about depth as the season progresses.
Looking ahead, MSU prepares for its next game against Alcorn State on September 13, 2025, scheduled to kick off at 5 p.m. CT. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+ and SEC Network+.
Game Highlights
- Final Score: Mississippi State 24, Arizona State 20
- Location: Davis Wade Stadium, Starkville, MS
- Leading Quarterback: Blake Shapen (279 yards, 3 TDs)
- Key Players: Anthony Evans III, Brenen Thompson, Jayven Williams
- Next Game: September 13, 2025, against Alcorn State
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the game?
The final score was MSU 24, ASU 20.
Who was the standout player for MSU?
Quarterback Blake Shapen was the standout player, throwing for 279 yards and three touchdowns.
What significant event occurred after the game?
MSU fans stormed the field in celebration, leading to a $500,000 fine from the SEC for field storming.
When is MSU’s next game?
MSU’s next game is against Alcorn State on September 13, 2025, at 5 p.m. CT.
Game Summary Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Score | MSU 24 – ASU 20 |
| Location | Davis Wade Stadium, Starkville, MS |
| Key Quarterback Stats | Blake Shapen: 279 yards, 3 touchdowns |
| Notable Players | Anthony Evans III, Brenen Thompson, Jayven Williams |
| Next Opponent | Alcorn State |
| Next Game Date | September 13, 2025 |
| Broadcast Details | ESPN+, SEC Network+ |
| Coaching Updates | Season-ending injuries to Will Whitson and Blake Steen |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Mississippi State Fined After Field Storming Incident
Mississippi State Bulldogs Upset No. 12 Arizona State Sun Devils
Arizona State to Face Mississippi State in Key College Football Showdown
Mississippi State University Triumphs Over Arizona State
Mississippi State University Fined for Post-Game Celebration
Starkville Celebrates Mississippi State’s Victory Over Arizona State
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Mississippi State Upsets No. 12 Arizona State in Thrilling Game
Additional Resources
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.
