The Mississippi State Bulldogs and Texas Longhorns released their final injury reports ahead of their game today. Who is and isn't suiting up?
Mississippi State Bulldogs running back Fluff Bothwell a "Game Time Decision" vs Texas
Could Mississippi State get their best offensive player back against Texas? It's possible. Running back Fluff Bothwell is officially considered a "Game Time Decision" for Saturday's matchup with the Longhorns. The bruising transfer from South Alabama leads the Bulldogs in rushing with 465 yards and over 5.5 yards per rush with six touchdowns.
The Bulldogs' bell cow suffered a lower leg injury late in the fourth quarter of Mississippi State's blowout loss at Texas A&M, having to be carted off the field. The injury ended up not being quite as serious as initially feared, something Bothwell would be able to return from this season. He did not play in the Bulldogs' loss at Florida, but they at least have a chance to have him back against Texas.
And Fluff Bothwell is certainly a player that Mississippi State wants to have back on the field. Just in general, the Bulldog offense has been significantly better with Bothwell carrying the ball. For this game specifically, the expectation is that Texas will take a "bend, don't break" approach defensively to avoid giving up quick scores, trusting they can hold in the redzone.
That means State will likely get favorable looks to run the ball, and Bothwell could potentially take advantage. It'd be huge if they could get him back today. One known absence of note, the Bulldogs will be without backup cornerback Jett Jefferson against Texas.
Texas Longhorns without starters safety Michael Taaffe and center Cole Hutson
A pair of Texas starters are out on Saturday. Safety Michael Taaffe will miss the game, a big loss for the Longhorn secondary. His loss makes it even more likely that Texas chooses to play conservatively on defense to not put backup defensive backs in unfavorable matchups. Offensive line is already a major issue for Texas, so not having center Cole Hutson only makes things worse for them up front. The Bulldog defensive front will look to take advantage.