Keys to the game for Mississippi State's big Week 7 matchup against Georgia

The Bulldogs are at a standstill after coming off a bye week. This season has been nothing but a disappointment. Each game this season, Mississippi State faces a new challenge to get through. Mississippi State can turn their season around with an upset win in Athens this weekend. 

A win against a top five team on the road would go a long way to restoring some faith in Mississippi State fans, but playing in Athens, Georgia, is never an easy thing.

These are the keys to victory for the Bulldogs from Starkvegas

Mississippi State needs to pound the ball

A couple of weeks ago, Alabama found a recipe for Georgia's powerhouse defense. Georgia had a tough time stopping the run. Jalen Milroe rushed for 117 yards on 16 carries, with the longest run for 36 yards.

Justice Haynes rushed for 35 yards on 6 carries, with the longest run for 23 yards. The Crimson Tide averaged 5.4 yards per rush for 32 rushing attempts. Jeff Lebby needs to implement creative ways to run the ball. If Mississippi State can control the running game, it will be a game the Bulldogs can win.

Mississippi State needs to silence the Sanford Stadium crowd

Sanford Stadium is one of the toughest environments to play in. Teams seem to struggle to stay focused and eventually lose composure. Georgia feeds off their fans, so it is essential for the Bulldogs to silence the stadium. Mississippi State needs to strike fast and early against Georgia. 

This will be of particular importance this week, as Georgia head coach Kirby Smart has called out the UGA fans and challenged them to be more of a factor in the games.

Mississippi State should play like they have nothing to lose

This is easier said than done, but Mississippi State has to play as if they have nothing to lose. If you think about it, Georgia has a lot to lose if Mississippi State pulls off the upset.

The Bulldogs need to play with house money and throw the sink at Georgia. This is the game to let loose and live with the result. Mississippi State can do the unthinkable this weekend if they do this.

If they don't empty the playbook on the road against a team like Georgia, they haven't done enough.

Mississippi State must make life difficult for Georgia QB Carson Beck

Carson Beck has regressed this season, and it is slowing down Georgia’s offense. He has thrown for 1,359 yards, 12 touchdowns, and three interceptions with a QBR of 81.7. Coleman Hutlzer is in a perfect position to cause havoc for Carson Beck.

Mississippi State’s defense made it tough for Archie Manning during the first half. If they can replicate that gameplan from their matchup versus Georgia, there is a chance for Mississippi State to come out of Athens with a win.