Why Mississippi State Football should fear Louisiana Tech’s Adrian Hardy

Fresh off a much needed victory over Texas A&M, Mississippi State will face Louisiana Tech Saturday in Starkville. But there is one star wideout for the opposing Bulldogs that deserves extra attention, and his name is Adrian Hardy. While Mississippi State should win this game, make no mistake that Hardy will have something to say on the field and fill the stat line.

Having posted 644 yards on 38 receptions for five touchdowns, Hardy has already made a statement in his sophomore campaign. At 6-2, Louisiana Tech has not disappointed, in large part due to his numbers. Though it resulted in a 38-21 loss, Hardy’s standout performance came against the now third ranked LSU Tigers, as he caught 10 balls for 181 yards and two touchdowns.

While LSU’s defense is no joke, Mississippi State’s is an entirely different animal. Though the secondary has been a bit suspect, defensive back Jonathan Abram has shown signs of life as of late. Standing at six-foot, Abram will likely be the matchup to go toe to toe with Hardy, who boasts a 6’2” frame.

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Coming off a 21-13 win over Florida Atlantic, Hardy was subpar, having only caught 4 balls for 65 yards without a touchdown. With that said, he is due to make amends in Starkville. Furthermore, Hardy is only a sophomore and already posting standout numbers.

However, Davis Wade should be a madhouse, as always. Mississippi State’s crowd should ignite the defense, as that energy will motivate Abram and company. Hardy will have to tune out the noise if he plans to have the type of outing that those in and around the game expect.

Look for Hardy to be the star for Louisiana Tech, but he will have to work for his yards. Moreover, Hardy will likely be facing different coverages and/or schemes, as Mississippi State will throw the kitchen sink his way.