Mississippi State Football: Potential Breakout Performers Against Alabama

LEXINGTON, KY - OCTOBER 10: Malik Heath #4 of the Mississippi State Bulldogs looks on during a game against the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field on October 10, 2020 in Lexington, Kentucky. Kentucky won 24-2. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
LEXINGTON, KY - OCTOBER 10: Malik Heath #4 of the Mississippi State Bulldogs looks on during a game against the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field on October 10, 2020 in Lexington, Kentucky. Kentucky won 24-2. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
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LEXINGTON, KY – OCTOBER 10: Marcus Murphy #7 of the Mississippi State Bulldogs in action on defense during a game against the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field on October 10, 2020 in Lexington, Kentucky. Kentucky won 24-2. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
LEXINGTON, KY – OCTOBER 10: Marcus Murphy #7 of the Mississippi State Bulldogs in action on defense during a game against the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field on October 10, 2020 in Lexington, Kentucky. Kentucky won 24-2. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)

After Fred Peters went down with a season-ending injury, Marcus Murphy now finds himself as the elder Bulldog in the secondary. I feel Murphy is ready for the leadership role as he has the talent and intangibles necessary to be a  coverage and run-stopping safety. Murphy will have to make quick decisions to help his team win.

He will have to show excellent eye discipline on play-action passes to ensure he does not get beat deep. Murphy will also aid in containing Najee Harris as well. I feel he will be up for the challenge.