Mississippi State football's 2025 spring game came and went without too much fanfare. The game wasn't televised or streamed, it was only two quarters long, and there was very little action in those two quarters, with the White team defeating the Maroon squad 9-0. But even in a relatively quiet scrimmage, there were some standout performances worth highlighting. Here are five Bulldogs that stole the show on Saturday...
Quarterback Kamario Taylor
The talk of the spring game was true freshman QB Kamario Taylor. The blue chip signee showed off the talent that made him one of the top QB recruits in the country. Taylor went 9-14 passing for 126 yards and a TD, leading the only two scoring drives of the game. Whether or not he sees the field this fall, we don't know, but State fans saw plenty to be excited about for the future.
Running Back Xavier Gayten
State's got a great RB room, headlined by Davon Booth and South Alabama transfer Fluff Bothwell. But the tailback that shined the most on Saturday was sophomore Xavier Gayten. He led all ball-carriers with 35 yards, had the longest rush of the day at 12 yards, and hauled in a 12-yard reception. On a day were MSU's rushers didn't have much space to operate, he was the most impressive. Expect him to get plenty of touches this season.
Wide Receiver Ayden Williams
Ole Miss transfer wideout Ayden Williams was one of the top additions for MSU out of the portal. Williams has tons of talent but was buried on the depth chart in Oxford. He came to Starkville for a fresh start, and he made the most of it in the spring game, leading the way with four catches for 43 yards. He also had a stellar 30-yard grab wiped out by penalty. The Bulldogs need several new WRs to step up in 2025, and Williams looks like he be one who does.
Defensive Lineman Jamil Burroughs
If State's defense is going to make any sort of improvements in 2025, they need difference makers to breakout along the defensive lineman. Transfer Jamil Burroughs has the talent to do so. The 6-3, 330 DT had two tackles and a batted ball on Saturday, and by all accounts, was a consistent force along the interior. Burroughs has had to work his way back to a roster after brief stints at his prior schools, but if he stays locked in, he'll be a huge piece both literally and figuratively along the DL.
Safety Tony Mitchell
Another new face helping upgrade the talent on defense is JUCO transfer Tony Mitchell. The former Alabama safety had arguably the most impressive showing of any defender with four tackles, two TFL, and one sack. With star safety Isaac Smith back and a few other quality pieces at the position, the Bulldogs should have a good safety room in 2025.