Brief Summary
This video previews the college football game between Mississippi State and Texas A&M. It highlights Texas A&M's strong start and impressive resume, while also noting Mississippi State's significant improvement this season. The discussion centers on key offensive and defensive matchups, particularly the effectiveness of Mississippi State's running backs and Texas A&M's evolving run-first approach. The speakers predict a Texas A&M victory but anticipate Mississippi State covering the spread, emphasizing the potential impact of Mississippi State's quarterback under pressure.
- Texas A&M is currently ranked #6 and has a 4-0 start, with notable wins.
- Mississippi State has significantly improved this season, but is coming off a tough loss.
- The key matchup involves Mississippi State's strong running game against Texas A&M's disciplined defense.
- Texas A&M's shift towards a run-first offense could be a significant factor.
- Both analysts predict a Texas A&M win, but expect Mississippi State to keep the game close and cover the spread.
Game Intro
The game between Mississippi State and Texas A&M is previewed as a compelling matchup. Texas A&M, ranked sixth and with a 4-0 start, aims to continue its successful season. Mississippi State seeks to rebound after a recent loss. Texas A&M's impressive resume includes a road win over Notre Dame and a victory over Auburn. Mississippi State, a surprise this year after a poor previous season, looks to build on its improved performance, despite an overtime loss to Tennessee.
Mississippi State's Offense vs. Texas A&M's Defense
The focus is on Mississippi State's offensive threats, particularly running backs Devon Booth and Fluff Bothwell, who excel at breaking tackles and making explosive runs. While Mississippi State's run blocking is average, their rushing grade is high when these backs get into open space. For Texas A&M's defense, disciplined edge play from players like TJ Cersei and Cashes How is crucial to contain these backs. Linebackers Toran York and Scooby Williams need to make open-field tackles to limit Mississippi State's rushing success.
Texas A&M's Run Game and Mississippi State's Defense
Texas A&M's evolving run-first offense is examined, noting their potential as having one of the best run games with a strong running back unit and offensive line. Despite initially being a pass-heavy team, Texas A&M successfully ran against Auburn, achieving high rushing yards and run blocking grades. Mississippi State's run defense is average, particularly struggling against Power Four opponents. The concern is that Mississippi State might struggle against Texas A&M's dangerous run game. However, Mississippi State has a strong coverage grade, suggesting they might prefer Texas A&M to pass more.
Keys to the Game and Predictions
The discussion emphasizes the importance of physicality against Mississippi State, whose secondary is strong but can be challenged up front. Le'Veon Moss's performance as a tone-setter for Texas A&M's offense is highlighted. The analysts predict Texas A&M will win, with scores of 28-20 and 31-24, but they also believe Mississippi State will cover the spread. The ability of Mississippi State's quarterback, Blake Shape, to handle pressure from Texas A&M's defensive line is seen as a critical factor.
