Three Takeaways From Mississippi State’s Win Over Illinois in the ReliaQuest Bowl

Mississippi State soccer placed on a thriller because it got here again from a 3-10 deficit at halftime to defeat Illinois, 19-10, in Mike Leach’s swan music sport on the 2023 Reliaquest Bowl in Tampa, Florida.

For the Bulldogs’ it kicks off the Zach Arnett period with a excessive observe. They end the season 9-4, their first season with 9+ wins since 2017, a correct ship off to Mike Leach and his legacy.

For Illinois, it is one other headache to finish the season. Illinois has not received a bowl sport since 2011 (they beat UCLA, 20-14, within the Struggle Starvation Bowl). Additionally they end their season dropping 4 of their final 5 video games.

With the mud settled, listed below are three main takeaways for Mississippi State after concluding their season with a bowl victory.

Offensive Struggles

On the offensive facet of the ball, the Bulldogs appeared sluggish for the primary half of the sport.

Within the first half, Mississippi State might barely transfer the ball down the sphere. They’d fives drives, leading to two punts, two turnovers, and a discipline aim.

Illinois performed aggressive man protection on protection that actually harm Mississippi State’s offensive play. Bulldog quarterback Will Rogers threw two picks, together with one within the pink zone and one into double man protection.

Illinois’ protection held the Bulldogs to a discipline aim earlier than halftime. Popping out into the second half, the Bulldogs made nice changes that result in a landing drive to tie the sport.

Within the second half, Will Rogers accomplished 14/18 passes for 122 yards, and one landing. Extensive receivers Jaden Walley and Justin Robinson performed an enormous half in serving to the Bulldogs get down the sphere and convert on essential performs.

Robinson could be named the Reliaquest Bowl MVP, catching 7 receptions for 81 yards and one landing. He averaged 11.6 yards per reception.

Regardless of the sluggish efficiency, the Bulldogs have been capable of get it collectively and are available out on prime.

Defensive Efficiency and Self-discipline

On protection, the Bulldogs utilized numerous strain to the Illinois offense but additionally appeared undisciplined at occasions.

Illinois was held to solely 35 dashing yards whereas their quarterback Tommy DeVito was pressured by the Bulldogs’ defensive position many occasions. Illinois additionally went 3/11 on third down conversions.

Nevertheless, the Bulldog defenders acquired too cocky and picked up penalties that would have been simply averted. For instance, a 3rd down cease was an automated first down after Bulldog security Shawn Preston Jr did a taunt after an incomplete cross.

Moreover, the Bulldogs saved getting their arms caught within the cookie jar on third down as a consequence of a number of defensive holding calls. They went 6-55 on penalties within the Reliaquest Bowl.

Illinois wasn’t precisely clear with penalties both. Their offensive line was very shaky and gave up numerous false begins, together with one the negated a landing. Regardless, the defensive self-discipline might have been higher for each groups.

Bulldog linebackers Nathaniel Watson and Jett Johnson have been a menace of protection, recording a mixed two sacks and a sort out for loss. CB Emmanuel Forbes additionally recorded seven tackles in what’s going to seemingly be his final sport for Mississippi State.

Cornerback Marcus Banks, who transferred to Mississippi State from Alabama in the course of the offseason, helped seal the victory for the Bulldogs scooping and scoring the ball throughout Illinois’ final ditch try at a win on the finish of regulation.

Total, the protection appeared actually good regardless of some flaws, and helped play an element in securing the win for Mike Leach’s legacy sport.

The Impression and The Future

This victory means so much to Mississippi State’s crew, followers, and group because the crew has persevered by powerful occasions.

For one, Mike Leach’s tenure could not have led to a extra memorable manner because the crew goes residence with a victory among the many becoming pirate decorations in Raymond James Stadium.

New head coach Zach Arnett additionally begins his tenure with a bang. He had different gives from different colleges and will a left at anytime, however determined to remain loyal to the Bulldogs in a transfer that paid off for him and his crew.

With the Bulldogs’ season at a detailed, Mississippi State has so much to sit up for as the long run is vivid for the Bulldogs.