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Game 2 Preview: Mississippi State vs. NC State

Five things you should know about tonight’s ACC vs. SEC matchup between the Wolfpack and Bulldogs

NCAA Football: South Florida at North Carolina State Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports

NC State’s QBs are prepping for the cowbells.

Two cowbells are really cute. Hope that prepared them for the 65,000 that will be ringing tonight.

Mississippi State’s O-line has to play better than last week.

The Bulldogs O-line gave up three sacks last week ... only in the first half. This had to be a significant piece of practice this week.

The Bulldogs’ D-line must stop the NC State running game.

The Wolfpack rushed for nearly 300 yards vs. South Florida last week. If that happens today, the Bulldogs can sketch an L on the right-hand side of the schedule.

Anytime anything positive happens, Mississippi State cannot respond with a penalty.

MSU finished last week’s game with 12 penalties for a total of 96 yards. This won’t provide the Bulldogs fans with a win if they can’t clean up the penalties.

NC State’s quarterback has a strong arm.

Although NC State’s running game was strong, their offense was extremely balanced last week. I tend to believe the Wolfpack offense will lean towards the pass tonight because of MSU’s success defending the run.

Keys to victory (NC State):

  • Get to Will Rogers.
  • Run the ball.
  • Balance the offense.

Keys to victory (Mississippi State):

  • Give Will Rogers time to think.
  • Stop the run.
  • Davis Wade needs to be rock’n.