Why Mississippi State should pay extra attention to Benny Snell

It is week four and the start of conference play for the Bulldogs, as they travel to Lexington for a dual with the Kentucky Wildcats. That said, one running back who has proven to be the real deal will give Mississippi State a run for its money. Benny Snell is a workhorse with a multitude of weapons. The Bulldogs’ defense must be at its best, as they face a tough test Saturday evening.

Snell, who enjoys a bit of flare and theatrics off the field walks the walk. Following a minor twitter war with Mississippi State’s sophomore back Kylin Hill, he will show up with a chip on his shoulder. Snell’s vision is an unrivaled, as he runs downhill with plenty of power and finesse. Though he can also elude defenders with ease, Snell will have the kitchen sink thrown at him.

Mississippi State’s defense is no joke, especially up front at the line. They are well aware of his name and are sure to have plenty in store as it pertains to corralling Snell. Defensive ends Montez Sweat and Gerri Green must set the edge while tackles Jeffery Simmons and Braxton Hoyett should be able to get a steady push.

Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Snell has worked wonders in Lexington, plain and simple. After back to back thousand yard seasons, Snell is already off and running. He has rushed for 375 yards on 62 attempts, having found the end zone three times thus far. Averaging 6.0 yards per carry going into week three and is set to make a statement.

However, Mississippi State got the best of Kentucky last year, as they held Snell to 18 yards on seven attempts. But make no mistake that he will do anything in his power to make that a distant memory. The Wildcats are at home and the game is at night. Night games give any team an extra advantage and Kroger Field will be rocking the Bluegrass State.

Aside from the twitter war, this matchup is special solely due to the fact that one of the nation’s best runners will be going up against one of the nation’s best front four. Snell will be playing with an extra bit of motivation in his house, as the Bulldog defense must be mindful of his talent. Sweat, Green, Simmons, and Hoyett have looked the part thus far, but conference play is an entirely different ballgame.

Look for Snell and the four mentioned above to battle it out and be in a dogfight until the score goes final. While his multitude of weapons will be on full display, the maroon and white are well familiar with Snell’s game. With that matchup and the off field dual between he and Hill, this game will be a show on both sides of the ball. Hail State!