Five Post Game Thoughts on the 2022 Mississippi State Bulldogs

1. Better than last year’s first game

Last year, the Mississippi State Bulldogs opened up with the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs and struggled. La Tech had to miss a field goal for us to win last year’s season opener. Yesterday was a much different scenario, and I think it could have been worse if the weather had not caused a two-hour delay. The delay hurt the rhythm that Mike Leach had going, and the crowd was extremely lively before many exited the stadium. All that to say, this team opened up a heck of a lot better than last year.

2. Will Rogers showed out

38/49 passes for 450 yards and 5 touchdowns. C’mon State fans. You and I both know that this is insane. I do not care what system that Will Rogers is in, if you can throw for 450 yards and 5 touchdowns, you had a solid night. Think back to the years of only ever throwing for 200 yards and that being a good night! This kid is for real, and he looks like he has gained confidence from the 2021 season.

3. The linebacker crew was seen

Those are some big fellas out there between the defensive line and the safeties. Jett Johnson was our leading tackler with seven tackles, and his presence was made known. Not only was Johnson’s presence made known, but the guys around him made significant plays. Specifically, Tyrus Wheat made a play in the 3rd quarter when he batted down a pass, and that was one of the best plays I have seen our defense make in a long time. These guys are for real, and you should expect to hear about them more as the season goes on.

4. The offensive line was dominant

I know we played Memphis, but Mississippi State’s offensive line was pushing forward all night long. This is why the running game became so effective inside the 20-yard line. It was as if Mike Leach knew that once we were in the red zone that he could score on the ground, but he would practice the pass until he had to score.

5. There are holes in places

Look, this Mississippi State team is far from perfect, but they are better than last year. The specific holes I saw last night were on special teams, late-game laziness (which could have been due to the weather delay), and Rogers’ mind being made up before the play started.