Mississippi State opened its preseason with a scrimmage at Davis Wade Stadium on August 16, handing the first‑team offense 47 snaps while the second unit ran 40.
Health and Snap Count
Coach Jeff Lebby praised the team’s health, saying they were “healthy coming off the field” and describing the atmosphere as having “good physicality and competitiveness.”
He highlighted quarterback Kamario Taylor, noting the sophomore’s solid ball security and poise, and said his ability to play from the pocket will be critical for the offense.
The offensive line showed moments of improvement, but Lebby warned that consistency still needs work, especially from the linemen beyond the top seven.
In the battle for the backup quarterback role, AJ Swann, Jaden Rashada and Parker Puckett are competing, with Lebby indicating that Swann and Rashada have received the bulk of practice repetitions.
The defense was dealt a blow when senior defensive lineman Colin Coates suffered a season‑ending injury, thinning the depth at that position.
Looking Ahead
The next chance to assess the roster will arrive on August 22, when the Bulldogs stage another scrimmage, offering a clearer picture of how the team is shaping up.