Two – the number of third downs Mississippi State’s offense managed to convert
Once again, the Mississippi State offense had major issues converting on third downs. This time, when facing the Auburn Tigers defense, the Miss. State Bulldogs only managed to convert on two third down opportunities.
How many third downs did the Bulldogs manage to face in this game?
A DOZEN.
Kevin Barbay’s offense has been up and down all season for a number of reasons. And while I actually came away from this game pretty satisfied with most of his aggressive play calling, it’s clear that executing is an issue for this offense (shoutout to the play where the Bulldogs crashed into each other).
And that’s just one reason why the Bulldogs went 2 for 12 on third down. Those short possession really hurt Mississippi State as the defense seemed similarly dysfunctional. Miss. State hasn’t been able to string together many long drives throughout this season.
At least the Bulldogs were willing to gamble on fourth down. That was encouraging to see. I’m actually really happy that Barbay and Arnett went for it on a few fourth downs.
I just wish they’d converted a few more third downs along the way.