Mississippi State’s football program kicked off preseason drills on August 6, setting the stage for a season opener against Louisiana‑Monroe on September 5 at 6:30 p.m. on ESPNU.
Third‑year head coach Jeff Lebby enters the camp with a 7‑18 record and a single SEC victory, but he brings a renewed focus on building depth and competition across both sides of the ball.
At the heart of the offense, sophomore quarterback Kamario Taylor is being tasked with mastering routine throws, especially on third‑and‑6, as quarterbacks coach Kevin Johns urges him to adopt a more calculated approach rather than relying on forceful throws.
The offensive line must replace starting tackle Blake Steen, who missed the previous season with an injury. Phil Loadholt, the line coach, emphasizes that while the top six linemen show promise, identifying the ten most effective players will be a key exercise.
Defensive coordinator Zach Arnett, rehired after a brief stint away, is installing an aggressive scheme that differs markedly from former coordinator Coleman Hutzler’s approach, a change that has already drawn positive feedback from players and staff.
In the backfield, the Bulldogs return running back Fluff Bothwell, who amassed 677 yards last season, alongside Davon Booth and a group of newcomers — Xavier Gayten, Kolin Wilson, Cooper Crosby and JJ Hill — who may see increased carries thanks to recent NCAA eligibility adjustments that eliminate redshirt restrictions for freshmen.
The competition for the No. 2 quarterback spot remains open, with transfers AJ Swann and Jaden Rashada joining freshman Brodie McWhorter and sophomore Parker Puckett in a battle that coach Johns describes as wide open after strong offseason performances from all candidates.
Beyond the X’s and O’s, the team’s chemistry will be tested by the blend of returning talent and fresh faces, making the upcoming preseason weeks crucial for establishing a rhythm before the September 5 showdown.