What are the Most Pressing Issues for Mississippi State?

Sep 26, 2015; Auburn, AL, USA; Auburn Tigers running back Roc Thomas (9) is brought down by Mississippi State Bulldogs defensive lineman Chris Jones (98) and defensive lineman Cory Thomas (34) during the third quarter at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Shanna Lockwood-USA TODAY Sports

Unlock the potential of Chris Jones and Nick James

Chris Jones and Nick James should be blowing up the opposing offensive lines. They have too much going for them in their favor to not be doing so, and yet here we are again, wondering what it is going to take to get these two monsters to perform as such.

Jones has had glimpses of what he is capable of. There are times when he wreaks havoc on a play and you see why there were so many who drooled over his potential when he was highly sought after prospect coming out of Houston High School. There are other times he seems to disappear and is a complete non factor.

His stats on the season would be solid contributions from an ordinary member of the defensive line. He has .5 sacks, two tackles for loss and 23 tackles total on the season. Those numbers aren’t bad, but they aren’t what Mississippi State needs from a highly talented player.

Nick James has been disappointing his entire career and he continues to do so. James has only four tackles on the year, and none of them have been for a loss.

The front seven has played well for Mississippi State thus far, but they have done it in spite of the fact they have not gotten the production they needed from two of their most talented players.

Next: Will Malik Dear be the Feature Running Back at Mississippi State?