Missouri Tigers Aim to Bounce Back Against Struggling Mississippi State Bulldogs

The Missouri Tigers, currently ranked 7-3 overall and 3-3 in the SEC, are set to face the struggling Mississippi State Bulldogs on Saturday, November 23, at Davis Wade Stadium in Starkville, Mississippi. The game, scheduled for 4:15 p.m. ET, will be broadcast on the SEC Network.

Missouri is looking to get back into the win column after a close loss to South Carolina last week. The Tigers have been consistent in winning close games, with all their victories over power conference teams coming by 7 or fewer points this season. Senior quarterback Brady Cook has been a key factor, completing over 63% of his passes and throwing 8 touchdowns with just 2 interceptions. The Tigers’ running game, led by Nate Noel with 684 yards, has also been a significant contributor to their offense.

On the other hand, Mississippi State is having a dismal season, standing at 2-8 overall and 0-6 in the SEC. The Bulldogs have not won a single SEC game this year and have suffered significant losses, including a 41-17 defeat to Toledo at home. Freshman quarterback Michael Van Buren has struggled, completing just 55% of his passes and averaging over 3 sacks taken per game. The Bulldogs’ running game, led by Davon Booth and Johnnie Daniels, has been one of the few bright spots, but their defense has been porous, allowing at least 30 points in 8 of their 9 games against FBS schools.

Given the stark contrast in performance between the two teams, oddsmakers have Missouri favored by 7.5 points. Analysts predict that Missouri should cover this spread, given Mississippi State’s consistent struggles and the Tigers’ ability to win close games.

The all-time series between Missouri and Mississippi State is tied 2-2, with Mississippi State winning both contests as SEC foes. However, this matchup is expected to be heavily in Missouri’s favor due to the current form of both teams.