MSU’s Strategy Against UF: ‘Make Them One-Dimensional’

Saturday’s matchup of the Mississippi State Bulldogs and the Florida Gators promises to be a high-stakes battle for redemption. Both teams are in the bottom of the SEC. They will each be playing to climb out of the conference cellar.

By the Numbers

Mississippi State (1-2, 0-0 SEC) and Florida (1-2, 0-1) are ranked 14th and 15th in the SEC, respectively, in defensive yards allowed this season. Both teams have been struggling offensively. They’ve been relatively on par with each other through three games, making the question for Saturday: Who’s going to struggle less?

MSU has Florida beat in total touchdowns scored with 13-11. However, Florida has more total offensive yards. If the game comes down to points scored kicking, Miss State could leave the stadium with the win, courteously of Kyle Ferrie.

3⃣ points for the Dawgs courtesy of Kyle Ferrie!#SHOWTIME | #HailState pic.twitter.com/9P01mcPSEO

— Mississippi State Football (@HailStateFB) September 15, 2024

The Game Plan

The Bulldogs have loss two straight, are hoping to start SEC play with some momentum by beating the Gators in Starkville. First-year Bulldogs coach Jeff Lebb plans to control the pace of the game in order to make the Gators “one-dimensional.”

UF coach Billy Napier’s new two-QB strategy is also proving to be a concern for Lebby. Part of controlling the multifaceted QB problem is to train an adaptable defense to adjust to the Gators’ two distinct offensive approaches. That defensive strategy from MSU revolves around its safety Isaac Smith, who leads the nation in total tackles, with 43:

Next Generation

The game may come down to the performances from each team’s standout freshmen. Florida’s quarterback DJ Lagway and Bulldogs wide receiver Mario Craver will certainly make an impact.

Lagway leads the SEC in individual game passing yards and longest pass. Craver is one of only two freshman in the SEC with multiple touchdowns and 100+ receiving yards. Lagway shares the spotlight with experienced QB Graham Mertz, a contributing factor to Florida’s choppy offense.

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Game Time

Saturday’s game is set for a noon ET kickoff on ESPN, 98.1-FM/850-AM WRUF.