Cowbell Corner

Why Mississippi State’s Defense Was Overrun by Arizona State’s Rushing Attack

There’s always multiple reasons for giving up nearly 400 rushing yards, but some key injuries certainly didn’t help Mississippi State

Taylor Hodges

Arizona State running back Cam Skattebo (4) runs the ball as Mississippi State Bulldogs safety Isaac Smith (2) tries to tackle him at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe on Sept. 7, 2024.
Arizona State running back Cam Skattebo (4) runs the ball as Mississippi State Bulldogs safety Isaac Smith (2) tries to tackle him at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe on Sept. 7, 2024. / Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK
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STARKVILLE, Miss. – Saying Mississippi State was bad at stopping Arizona State’s run game might be an understatement.

But the adjective doesn’t really matter when a defense gives up 364 total rushing yards, including 262 to one player alone and 250 yards gained after contact.

There’s never just one reason why a defense gives up that many yards. Coach Jeff Lebby said the biggest issue was his team’s tackling.

“That was the frustrating part for our guys,” Lebby said in his Monday press conference. “As they watched the tape there were plenty of times we were in position and needed to get the guy to the ground. We have to find a way to make the play when we’re in position.”

No coach will never use injuries as an excuse (and Lebby didn’t), but injuries are a factor. For Mississippi State against Arizona State, it might’ve been missing the wrong guys at the wrong time.

Defensive linemen Kalvin Dinkins and Deonte Anderson missed the game with injuries and Lebby announced Eric Taylor was no longer with the team and didn’t play Saturday. Dinkins and Taylor were two of biggest Bulldogs along the defensive line with both weighing more than 310 lbs.

Mississippi State could’ve used the extra mass against the Sun Devils’ offensive line that has an average weight of 316 lbs. The three starting defensive linemen Mississippi State had an average weight of 298 lbs. The size difference was noticeable, too.

Arizona State’s line manhandled the Bulldogs for most of the game and it’s difficult to say if Dinkins or Taylor had played there would’ve a big difference in the result.

Their absences hurt and while Taylor won’t be back, Dinkins and Anderson will. However, Mississippi State’s coaching staff is planning for Toledo as if they won’t be playing.

“Hopeful for these guys to be able to play. It’s too early in the week to know,” Lebby said. “They did a little bit today, but not much. We’re planning as if we’re not going to have these guys. So, we’ll see as we get later on in the week.”

Read More:

Jeff Lebby Talks Loss to Arizona State and Upcoming Matchup with Toledo

Mississippi State’s Path Forward Mirrors Sun Devils' Journey After Loss

WATCH: Mississippi State's Bowl Hopes Take a Hit with Arizona State Defeat


Mississippi State Football: The Blueprint to Get Back on Track

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Taylor Hodges

TAYLOR HODGES

Award-winning sports editor, writer, columnist, and photographer with 15 years’ experience offering his opinion and insight about the sports world in Mississippi and Texas. Taylor has covered all levels of sports, from small high schools in the Mississippi Delta to NFL games. Follow Taylor on Twitter and Facebook.

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