Mississippi State football is dealt with the unfortunate task of taking on the Tennessee Volunteers this weekend. The Bulldogs are still looking for their first conference win, but that will be difficult to find versus a talented Tennessee team in Neyland Stadium. The Volunteers have talent all over the field, and here are three players that Bulldogs fans should know ahead of the game on Saturday night...
Running Back Dylan Sampson
Ashton Jeanty has been in the spotlight all season long for his outstanding play, but Sampson has proven to also be one of the top running backs in the country. In recent weeks, Tennessee's offense has sputtered at time, but Sampson has remained consistant all season long. Through eight games, Sampson has rushed for 980 yards for 19 touchdowns. There has been only one game where he has rushed for under 100 yards and one touchdown, and that was their win over Oklahoma. State's defense will have their hands full trying to slow down Sampson who is also averaging 5.7 yards per rush.
Defensive End James Pearce Jr.
Pearce might be selected first overall in the NFL Draft because of his elite pass rushing ability. He finished last season with 9.5 sacks, and he was expected to build upon that this season. His stats might not be what we thought they were, but he is still one of the best defensive players in the country. He has 4.5 sacks so far this season and 23 total tackles, but these numbers should approve on Saturday given the struggles that State has had on the offensive line.
Wide Receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr.
Bru McCoy and Squirrel White were expected to be the top receivers for the Vols this season, but it has actually been Thornton who has emerged as the top target. White and McCoy do have more receptions, but Thornton leads the team in receiving yards and is tied for first in receiving touchdowns. This season he has 17 receptions for 401 yards and three touchdowns. Mississippi State's secondary will have the difficult task of stopping Thornton who is averaging 23 yards per reception this season.