FWtCT Staff Predictions for Mississippi State Versus Abilene Christian

STARKVILLE, Miss. — Mississippi State will play its first night game at Davis Wade Stadium on Saturday, when the Bulldogs host Abilene Christian for Homecoming at 6:30 p.m. CT.

The Bulldogs are coming off a 38-7 loss a week ago. State has won nine straight Homecoming games and 12 out of its last 13. Saturday marks the first time the two squads have played each other, but the Bulldogs enter Saturday’s game with a 7-0 all-time record against current teams from the Southland Conference.

Junior running back Kylin Hill rushed for 35 yards last week but is the Southeastern Conference player with 1,000-plus rushing yards and 10-plus rushing touchdowns this season.

The Wildcats sport a solid run defense with a defensive front that is among the best in the FCS, allowing 3.27 yards per rush.

Let’s get to the picks.

Collin Wilmes: I know you don’t want to underestimate an opponent, but this is a cupcake game. This is a great opportunity for the Bulldogs to get some confidence back heading into the all important Egg Bowl. The Bulldogs will run the ball early and often (200-plus rushing yards) and get out with a rather easy win. Final score: Mississippi State wins 42-7.

Landon Young: The Mississippi State Bulldogs will be looking right at Thanksgiving Day. Abilene Christian will be a preparation game for the Ole Miss Rebels. Between now and Thursday, the Bulldogs must find a way to stop Ole Miss QB, John Rhys Plumlee. I’ll take the Bulldogs this week to win in dominating fashion, Final score: 42-17.

William Mitchell: In all accounts, this should be a very easy game for the Bulldogs. I know there are injuries on both sides of the ball, but the Bulldogs have the better team in terms of talent in every aspect. On the other hand, I am not so sure we have the advantage concerning the coaches. Our offense needs to wake up and this is a good opportunity for them to try some new things and play some new faces along with building a little confidence on the offensive side of the ball. I see State having a good night being it’s the first night game of the season in Davis Wade. Final score: Mississippi State wins 52-17.

You can watch the game Saturday at 6:30 p.m. CT on SEC Network Alternate. The game can also be streamed on the WatchESPN app.