MS State vs Missouri: Tigers Look to Keep Momentum at Home
In a critical SEC showdown, MS State vs Missouri is set to take place on November 15, 2025, with the Missouri Tigers (6–3, 2–3 SEC) hosting the Mississippi State Bulldogs (5–5, 1–5 SEC) at Faurot Field. Missouri enters as the favorite, aiming to build on its strong season, while MS State is fighting to avoid a late‑season collapse.
Season Context: Stakes Running High
For Missouri, this matchup represents a valuable opportunity to solidify its standing in the SEC. With a 6–3 record, the Tigers have shown flashes of dominance, particularly in their ground game. Their balanced rushing offense and efficient scoring are key strengths this season.
Mississippi State, on the other hand, comes into Columbia under pressure. At 5–5, the Bulldogs need a win to keep bowl hopes alive. Their offense, led by quarterback Blake Shapen, has been solid in passing, but inconsistency, especially on defense, has plagued their campaign. A win over a ranked Missouri would shift momentum in their favor at just the right time.
Key Players to Watch
- Blake Shapen (MS State): The Bulldogs’ QB has thrown for over 2,200 yards this season, making him central to any MS State offensive resurgence. ESPN.com+2ESPN.com+2
- Da’Marion Bothwell (MS State): As MS State’s workhorse running back, Bothwell’s production will be crucial if the Bulldogs want to sustain long drives. ESPN.com
- Ahmad Hardy (Missouri): Leading Missouri’s rushing attack, Hardy’s ability to move the chains could capitalize on MS State’s defensive vulnerabilities. ESPN.com
- Beau Pribula (Missouri): Before his injury, Pribula led the Tigers in passing. His absence or limited availability could force Missouri to lean further into its run game. 福克斯体育+1
Strategic Breakdown: How Each Team Might Approach the Game
Missouri’s Game Plan: Control and Physicality
In MS State vs Missouri, the Tigers are likely to lean into their strengths — a powerful running game and controlling time of possession. Missouri ranks high in rushing yards per game, and their offense is built to grind out drives and wear down defenses. ESPN.com With MS State’s defensive struggles, especially against the run, Missouri can impose its will on the ground and force the Bulldogs to earn everything in the passing game.
Missouri’s defense is also a strength: limiting opponent passing yards and making key stops on third downs has been part of their formula for success. ESPN.com By shutting down MS State’s big-play potential, Missouri could dictate the tempo and control critical moments.
MS State’s Path to Victory: Takeaways and Quick Strikes
For Mississippi State to pull off the upset, turnover margin and explosive plays will be vital. The Bulldogs need Shapen to make quick, accurate throws and capitalize on any Missouri mistakes. Their running game, anchored by Bothwell, must also be productive to keep Missouri off balance.
MS State’s defense must generate pressure and limit Missouri’s time-of-possession dominance. If the Bulldogs can force early punts and convert on third downs, they may swing momentum and stay in this game deep into the second half.
Risks & Challenges
- Missouri Risks: While their rushing attack is a strength, Missouri’s reliance on the ground game could backfire if MS State loads the box. Additionally, any drop-off in Pribula’s efficiency (or his absence) could limit the Tigers’ offensive flexibility.
- MS State Challenges: The Bulldogs’ defense has shown susceptibility to physical, run-heavy teams. Without consistent pass rush or tight coverage, Missouri could exploit them. Also, Shapen must avoid turnovers; otherwise, MS State may self-sabotage.
Implications: What This Game Means for Both Teams
For Missouri
- Playoff/Bowl Momentum: A win would boost Missouri’s path toward a strong bowl game and potentially improve their SEC standing.
- Run Game Validation: Dominating MS State with their ground attack would reinforce Missouri’s identity as a physical, time-controlling team.
- Roster Confidence: If they close this game convincingly, it could solidify the confidence in both their offense and defense heading into critical late-season matchups.
For MS State
- Rescue Mission: This game may feel like a last stand for a bowl-eligible season. A win could dramatically shift the Bulldogs’ trajectory.
- Quarterback Trust: A strong performance from Shapen would validate MS State’s passing approach and provide a foundation for closing out the season.
- Defensive Test: Beating Missouri would require step-up play from the defense — specifically generating stops and taking advantage of turnovers.
Looking Ahead
Missouri will aim to leverage its strengths and close out the season with a confident run into bowl season. If they can dominate the line of scrimmage and control the clock, they may emerge as a sleeper contender in the SEC.
Mississippi State, meanwhile, must treat this as a must-win. They need to play smart, protect the ball, and make big plays in critical moments. If they do, they still have a shot at gaining relevance in a challenging conference.
Credit: SportbuzzHub.com
Date: November 16, 2025
