Cowbell Corner

Mississippi State vs. Florida: Bold Predictions for a Crucial Matchup

Mississippi State and Florida are both desperate for a win. What are some bold predictions for this matchup?

Jacob Bain

Aug 31, 2024; Starkville, Mississippi, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs head coach Jeff Lebby walks off the field after defeating the Eastern Kentucky Colonels at Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Bush-Imagn Images
Aug 31, 2024; Starkville, Mississippi, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs head coach Jeff Lebby walks off the field after defeating the Eastern Kentucky Colonels at Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Bush-Imagn Images / Matt Bush-Imagn Images
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Mississippi State vs Florida Preview

Mississippi State football faces the Florida Gators this weekend. Both squads are desperate for a win.

Florida and head coach Billy Napier are floundering fast, and the program's momentum is at rock bottom. Meanwhile, under first-year head coach Jeff Lebby, Mississippi State has limped off to a slow start, but there is hope for the future.

Florida and Mississippi State have the same record, but each program's optimism is different, which should make for an intriguing matchup.

Bold Predictions for Mississippi State vs. Florida

Mississippi State or Florida Will Rush for Over 150 Yards

Each squad has struggled to run the ball and stop the run this season, which is not a good sign, considering each offense is predicated on the rushing attack. However, something will have to give this weekend because neither Lebby nor Napier will abandon the rushing attack.

Whoever finds success running the ball will ultimately win the game.

If Mississippi State Can Get an Early Lead, They Will Win

Mississippi State must find a way to get the crowd into the game early. While the Bulldogs did grab some momentum this week with wins on the recruiting trail, if they fall behind early, the crowd at Davis Wade Stadium will quickly grow restless.

However, Florida may roll over if Mississippi State can jump to an early lead and get the crowd into the game.

Mississippi State or Florida Will Force a Crucial Turnover

Most games do, but the turnover margin in this game will be massive. Mississippi State and Florida have struggled on offense, and the best way to score easy points is with a turnover.

This will be a close game in the second half, but a costly turnover will give either Mississippi State or Florida a chance to seal the game.


Read More Mississippi State Bulldogs on SI:

Mississippi State vs. Florida: Bulldogs’ Defensive Woes Deepen with Key Injuries

Mississippi State Injury Report: Corey Ellington In, Kedrick Bingley-Jones and Xavier

Mississippi State vs. Florida: Three Bulldog Offensive Players to Watch

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Jacob Bain
JACOB BAIN

Jacob Bain first joined Cowbell Corner as an intern, and was promoted to lead day-to-day coverage in Starkville of Mississippi State sports in 2023. His primary beats include football, baseball and basketball. He's originally fromΒ Fulton, Miss.

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