Mississippi State football in on Rocky Top tonight, as they'll face the #7 Tennessee Volunteers. Here are a few key injury updates ahead of tonight's matchup...
Wide Receiver Mario Craver is "probable" to play vs Tennessee
It looks as though the Bulldogs will get one of their top offensive play-makers back Saturday night in Knoxville. Wide receiver Mario Craver is "probable" to play against Tennessee. The true freshman has missed State's last two games after suffering a leg injury against Texas A&M. Craver is the most explosive pass-catcher MSU has, averaging over 22 yards per reception. And despite not playing the last two weeks, he is still second on the team in receiving yards with 355. His return would be huge for the Bulldog offense.
Defensive End De'Monte Russell is "probable" to play vs Tennessee
Defensive line depth has been a major issue all season for Mississippi State, and while that's still the case, they should be in somewhat better shape against Tennessee. Starting defensive end De'Monte Russell is "probable" to play Saturday night. The senior is one of the leader's of the defense, and while he has not had the most productive year, his experience is valuable. And frankly, the Bulldogs simply need bodies up front.
Volunteers will be without one of their top defensive lineman
Tennessee's defensive line is monstrous, but they won't have one of their top lineman against Mississippi State. Defensive end Tyre West is officially out on Saturday. West has 2.0 sacks and 4.0 tackles for loss on the year. The Volunteers will also be without backup running back DeSean Bishop, the team's second-leading rusher. With James Pearce Jr. still rushing off the edge and Dylan Sampson toting the rock, Tennessee should be more than fine at both spots, but they'll have slightly less depth there.