How Mississippi State can win the SEC West

The SEC West has been nothing short of a powerhouse in recent memory, as each of its seven teams are highly regarded amongst those in and around the game. Though the division has been commanded by Alabama, Mississippi State has yet to disappoint as of late. While the Crimson Tide is predicted yet again to win the west, the Bulldogs have what it takes and then some to down Bama along with the other five.

Prior to star quarterback Nick Fitzgerald’s tragic injury, Mississippi State did not disappoint, as the Bulldogs looked more than comfortable on the field. They started the season on fire, having gone 3-0, which included an iconic victory 37 - 7 over 12th ranked LSU, only to be followed by a 31-3 loss to Georgia. Then came four more wins and a heartbreaking 31-24 loss to the first-ranked Tide. And if that was not enough, the Bulldogs’ 31-28 loss to arch-rival Ole Miss took every bit out of Davis Wade Stadium.

Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports

That said, Mississippi State did make it to a bowl with the tough task of facing Heisman trophy winner Lamar Jackson and Louisville. But the Bulldogs’ prevailed in style, ultimately ending on a high. It was a 31-27 victory in a thriller and Mississippi State rang in 2018 with a W. Then comes the ultimate game changer on and off the field, Joe Moorhead.

Being the offensive savant that he is, Moorhead will have his way with a complete team, able to take anybody, and that includes Bama. He has instilled a new culture in Starkville, one that believes and wants to put on a show. That with the return of Fitzgerald and a revamped defense should push Mississippi State to the top.

Matt Bush-USA TODAY Sports

In today’s game a team is either filled with youth or experience, but only so many have enough of both. Though the Bulldogs’ talent is endless on both sides of the ball, it is Mississippi State’s new backfield that is most intriguing. Fitzgerald’s experience combined with that of running back Aeris Williams will be complimented by Kylin Hill, a back with the highest of ceilings.

On the defensive side is another one-two punch in promising linebacker Erroll Thompson and veteran defensive end Montez Sweat. The five mentioned will shine under Moorhead and lead the team to new heights. Whether it be Alabama, Auburn, LSU, Texas A&M, Arkansas, or Ole Miss, the Bulldogs will have no fear and take it to anyone at anytime.

John Glaser-USA TODAY Sports

If Mississippi State is able to be above average on both ends, the Bulldogs can very well be unstoppable. Expect this team to have fun and play with a lot of competitive fight. Mississippi State has and will continue to be a hard nosed squad, playing for the ultimate goal. While they may end up being college football’s cinderella, they will win the hearts of fans day in and day out with their style and swagger.

Mississippi State football is back and better than ever. Davis Wade Stadium will be full to capacity every Saturday and rocking until the final seconds. The Bulldogs will be scary and ready. It will be a season to remember, as the likely headline will say something to the affect of “The Mississippi State Bulldogs are SEC Champions.”