No. 6 Mississippi State stunned by South Florida 67-63

After two dominant home victories, the Bulldogs came up just short on the road having found themselves in foul trouble against the Bulls.

While Rickea Jackson, Jessika Carter and Aliyah Matharu scored in double figures, the rest of the team was held in check. Jackson ended up with four fouls and Carter fouled out. Matharu ended up with three personals. The Bulldogs’ backcourt could not get a running start, as Myah Taylor and JaMya Mingo-Young combined for just nine points.

The Bulldogs also lost the turnover battle, having committed 21 to the Bulls’ 12. As ball security was a major issue in 2019, it must be addressed for this year’s squad to impose its will on their opponents.

Though this was an unexpected upset, look for coach Nikki McCray-Penson to get things sorted out going forward. Given the fact that such a loss happened early in the season, it gives the Bulldogs an opportunity to get right for stiffer competition in the near future. This team is much too talented and experienced to let a game like this one get away.

Expect the Bulldogs to make amends and take out their frustration come Monday at home against Troy.

Hail State!