Tennessee Faces Mississippi State in SEC Clash with Bold Predictions

Starkville, Mississippi — The 15th-ranked Tennessee Volunteers are set to take on Mississippi State this Saturday, marking their first road trip in SEC play for the 2025 season. After suffering an overtime loss to Alabama earlier this month, the Vols are looking to rebound against a Bulldogs team eager to end their 12-game SEC losing streak.

Patrick Brown, Ben McKee, and Ryan Callahan from GoVols247 each shared their bold predictions for the matchup. Ben McKee predicts the Vols will rush for over 200 yards, capitalizing on Mississippi State’s struggle to stop the run.

“They are allowing 136.5 rushing yards per game,” McKee noted, highlighting the Vols’ ability to gain ground, averaging 216.3 rushing yards and standing fifth in the SEC.

Brown adds an emotional twist, noting a key player, wide receiver Staley, facing his father’s alma mater. Staley’s strong start with 21 catches for 281 yards could become even more impactful as he aims to impress against Mississippi State.

For Callahan, the focus shifts to the Vols’ running back situation where they have yet to feature a 100-yard rusher this season. He believes that redshirt freshman Bishop will achieve that milestone this week against the Bulldogs.

“With the return of senior defensive tackle making the line stronger, I see him breaking through for his first career sack,” Callahan added, discussing the matchup’s implications.

Brown also highlights special teams, predicting that Tennessee might get a blocked kick for the first time since 2024. “They haven’t blocked a punt in a while, and I think this game might be the one,” he said.

With Mississippi State’s offense averaging near 300 rushing yards in recent games, McKee warns that Tennessee must match that intensity, especially with the expected return of key defenders.

Ryan Callahan notes that the Bulldogs have a strong turnover margin of plus-5 but expects the Vols to win the turnover battle. “With pressure on their QB, we might see at least one interception,” Callahan stated, emphasizing the potential swing in momentum.

As Tennessee prepares for a critical game that could define its season trajectory, both teams will look to capitalize on their strengths and turn the tide in their favor.