Starkville, Mississippi, September 30, 2025
News Summary
In a thrilling overtime clash at Davis Wade Stadium, Mississippi State lost to No. 15 Tennessee with a final score of 41-34. The game featured key performances by both teams, including Fluff Bothwell’s 134 rushing yards and two touchdowns for the Bulldogs. Despite Mississippi State’s offensive efforts, including a game-tying touchdown in regulation, Tennessee secured victory with a touchdown on their first overtime possession. Mississippi State will next face Texas A&M, while Tennessee has a bye week before hosting Arkansas.
Starkville, Mississippi
Mississippi State (MSU) fell to No. 15 Tennessee in a thrilling overtime match, with a final score of 41-34 on September 27, 2025. The game, held at Davis Wade Stadium, showcased intense competition that ended after regulation was deadlocked at 34 all.
Tennessee took the first strike in overtime, scoring a touchdown on their opening play thanks to a 25-yard run from DeSean Bishop. In response, Mississippi State advanced to the Tennessee 5-yard line but was unable to score, as their four consecutive plays were thwarted by the Volunteers’ formidable defense.
Mississippi State showcased significant offensive talent during the game, with running back Fluff Bothwell rushing for 134 yards and scoring two touchdowns. Quarterback Blake Shapen completed 180 passing yards, contributing one touchdown; however, he also had one interception, which proved costly. Tennessee’s efforts to push forward were hampered by three turnovers, which allowed Mississippi State to capitalize and score 21 points off these mistakes.
The contest was marked by numerous lead changes, beginning with Mississippi State surging to a 7-0 lead. Both teams were tied 17-17 at halftime after an engaging first half filled with pivotal plays. Tennessee took a 27-24 lead following a scoop-and-score touchdown from Joshua Joseph’s fumble recovery.
Mississippi State managed to level the score at 34 with a touchdown pass from Shapen to Seydou Traore before the end of regulation. For Tennessee, quarterback Aguilar completed 24 of 40 passes, totaling 335 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions. Tennessee’s defense made notable contributions, including two defensive touchdowns: a 23-yard interception return by Colton Hood and the fumble recovery touchdown by Joshua Joseph.
Defensive efforts from Mississippi State were led by linebacker Branden Jennings, who recorded 10 total tackles, and safety Jahron Manning, who had six tackles, three pass breakups, and an interception. The Bulldogs were able to convert 8 of 19 third downs throughout the game, demonstrating perseverance despite the high-pressure environment.
Following this match, Mississippi State will face Texas A&M on October 4, 2025, while Tennessee will enjoy a bye week before hosting Arkansas on October 11, 2025. This matchup left Tennessee still ranked at No. 15 in both the Associated Press Top 25 and the Coaches Poll. The game was noted for its electric atmosphere, with Tennessee’s contributions praised by players and coaching staff alike.
Key Game Statistics
- Final Score: Mississippi State 34, Tennessee 41 (Overtime)
- Location: Davis Wade Stadium, Starkville, Mississippi
- Tennessee’s Touchdown in Overtime: DeSean Bishop, 25-yard run
- Mississippi State’s Key Player: Fluff Bothwell, 134 yards, 2 touchdowns
- Mississippi State’s Quarterback: Blake Shapen, 180 yards, 1 touchdown, 1 interception
- Turnovers: 5 total, with 3 for Tennessee
- Next Game for Mississippi State: Texas A&M on October 4, 2025
- Next Game for Tennessee: Bye week, hosting Arkansas on October 11, 2025
Game Summary
| Team | Total Yards | Turnovers | Third Down Conversions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mississippi State | 394 | 2 | 8/19 |
| Tennessee | 365 | 3 | N/A |
FAQ
What was the final score of the game?
Mississippi State lost to Tennessee with a final score of 41-34 in overtime.
Where did the game take place?
The game took place at Davis Wade Stadium in Starkville, Mississippi.
What was a key offensive performance?
Fluff Bothwell rushed for 134 yards and scored two touchdowns in the game.
What will be the next opponents for Mississippi State and Tennessee?
Mississippi State will play against Texas A&M on October 4, 2025, while Tennessee will have a bye week before hosting Arkansas on October 11, 2025.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- 247Sports: Tennessee Football Rankings
- Knox News: Tennessee vs. Mississippi State Highlights
- ESPN: Game Recap Tennessee vs. Mississippi State
- Hail State: Mississippi State Falls to Tennessee
- WATE: Tennessee Wins Overtime Thriller
- Wikipedia: Tennessee Volunteers Football
- Google Search: Tennessee Football
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tennessee Volunteers
- Google News: Tennessee 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.
