Jeff Lebby (HC) – Now in his second season at the helm, Jeff Lebby has energized Mississippi State with a faster tempo and a renewed offensive identity. The former Oklahoma offensive coordinator is known for his up-tempo, spread system — one that relies heavily on quick reads, spacing, and rhythm passing. Through eight games, the Bulldogs have averaged just over 380 yards of offense per game, a noticeable jump from 2024’s numbers. Still, Lebby is looking for a statement win, and he’s yet to notch one against Georgia. His familiarity with the SEC from his time at Ole Miss gives him an understanding of the challenge ahead, but the key for him will be balancing tempo with discipline against one of the nation’s most physical defenses. Expect Lebby to lean on short throws, screens, and tempo changes to try and neutralize Georgia’s pass rush.

Davon Booth (RB #6) – Booth has emerged as the tone-setter on the ground. The senior running back leads the Bulldogs with nearly 500 rushing yards and six touchdowns, averaging around 4.5 yards per carry. He punched in a two-yard score early against Arkansas to open the scoring, and his ability to stay patient behind his blockers makes him a perfect fit for Lebby’s inside-zone schemes. Expect Mississippi State to use Booth early to keep the Dawgs’ front honest and to open passing lanes for Shapen.

Anthony Evans III (WR #3) – A breakout playmaker in recent weeks, Evans has provided the explosive spark Lebby’s offense thrives on. His 18-yard touchdown against Arkansas, where he broke a tackle and sprinted into the end zone, was a glimpse of what makes him dangerous: speed, balance, and yards after the catch. Evans has quietly become Shapen’s go-to option in key moments. Georgia’s secondary will need to keep him contained on quick slants and bubble screens — the kind of plays designed to turn short gains into momentum-shifting chunks.

Blake Shapen (QB #2) – The senior transfer from Baylor has quickly become the stabilizing force in Lebby’s system. Shapen is a smart, efficient passer who thrives on timing routes and intermediate throws. He’s thrown for over 1,900 yards this season with 13 touchdowns and only five interceptions, including a 242-yard, two-touchdown performance in the win over Arkansas. His poise late in that game — engineering a comeback capped by an 18-yard TD to Anthony Evans III — shows his ability to handle pressure. Georgia’s defensive front will test his pocket awareness, but if Shapen gets into rhythm early, Mississippi State’s offense could find its footing.

Jahron Manning (S #13) – ​​Manning anchors the back end of the defense with toughness and range. A returning leader with over 60 tackles already this season, he plays downhill and thrives in run support while also possessing the instincts to make plays in coverage. Against a balanced Georgia offense, his role in limiting explosive plays will be critical.

Will Whitson (DL #43) – At 6-5, 295-pound, Whitson gives the Bulldogs much-needed size and disruption up front. A transfer addition with a history of production, he’s strong against the run and quick enough to collapse the pocket. His matchup against Georgia’s offensive line could be one of the game’s most telling battles.

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Legendary basketball star Bailey Howell, one of the greatest players in Southeastern Conference history, averaged 27 points and 17 rebounds per game during his MSU career.

Jeff Malone, one of Mississippi State’s two greatest basketball players ever, was the 1983 SEC Player of the Year and went on to a successful career as one of the top sharpshooters in the NBA.

One of the SEC’s all-time iconic sluggers, Will ‘The Thrill’ Clark was a sweet swinging left hand hitting first baseman, who ended his Major League Baseball career with a.303 batting average.