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Home and eager for a win, Mississippi State is set to take on the 16th ranked Aggies of Texas A&M. The 4-3 Bulldogs have struggled mightily this season, as inconsistency speaks for their record. Though Mississippi State should put up a fight, there are two players to fear in particular.
Up first is running back Trayveon Wililams, an elusive, every down workhorse. Williams’ numbers have been steady, as his 798 yards on 139 attempts speak for themselves. Having found the end zone eight times, he is averaging 5.7 yards per carry, a stat not to be overlooked when going against SEC defenses.
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But if there is one things we all know, it’s the quality of Mississippi State’s rush defense that is on another level. That said, players such as Montez Sweat and Jeffrey Simmons will need to show out to shut down Williams. But that is much easier said than done, as Williams is a multitalented weapon in the backfield, boasting power, speed, and agility.
Like the Bulldogs, the Aggies excel at the line, and it all starts with edge rusher Landis Durham. A linebacker turned to defensive end, the senior is a pro talent, plain and simple. With 29 tackles along with five sacks on the year, Durham is on pace for a monster season.
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If he is able to get past Mississippi State’s offensive line, quarterback Nick Fitzgerald as well as running backs Aeris Williams and Kylin Hill are in for a long day. Look for the Bulldogs to double team Durham and give him a lot of attention. With his speed and awareness, Durham is sure to be a handful.
In short, this will be a close one at Davis Wade. Mississippi State and Texas A&M have similar strengths and weaknesses, ultimately resulting in a game that will likely come down to the wire. Look for the Bulldogs to use home field advantage to the best of their ability, as both teams will be given all they can handle.