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The college football season has come to an end. The Alabama Crimson Tide have been crowned National Champions and now it’s over until next season… 235 days to be exact. 235 days until one of the most anticipated seasons in Mississippi State football history.
The 2018 season has potential to be one of the best we have ever seen. Yes, maybe better than Dak’s junior year. The talent that we are returning, plus the talent we have signed in this year’s recruiting class could be the most talented team we’ve seen in years. With two quarterbacks that are both good enough to start next year, it’s obvious that the talent level has nearly peaked. Nick Fitzgerald, Keytaon Thompson, Kylin Hill, and Aeris Williams will all be back next season. Not to mention, the offensive line returns 5 starters.
The defense that Mississippi State is going to have in 2018 could be the best defense in MSU history. I know that since I’ve been alive (I am currently 21 years of age) this will be the best front 7 I’ve ever witnessed. With linebackers Willie Gay, Leo Lewis, and Errol Thompson returning, MSU should be set at the linebacker position. With Jeffery Simmons, Montez Sweat, Chauncey Rivers, and Braxton Hoyett (I did not name all of the returning defensive lineman) returning, this will be the best defensive lineman group we’ve ever seen at MSU.
Another reason next season is so anticipated by many State fans is because of our new head ball coach… Joe Moorhead. Our offense will undoubtedly be different. I don’t think we’ll see Nick Fitzgerald get near as many carries as he did under Dan Mullen. It’s obvious that JoMo likes to throw the ball, especially the deep ball. So, expect Fitzgerald (or Keytaon Thompson) to be passing the ball quite a bit more next season. Moorhead has also had an established running game at his former coaching positions. Moorhead utilized Trace McSorley and Saquon Barkley in one of the most dynamic offenses I’ve ever seen. This style of offense has many MSU fans on their tip toes, expecting Moorhead to be able to put up unreal numbers on some quality SEC defenses.
With this being the first time in 9 seasons that Mississippi State fans have seen a new face on the sideline, I’d say we’re all anticipating September 1, 2018.