The Arizona State Sun Devils will travel to Starkville to take on the Mississippi State Bulldogs in Week 2 of the 2025 college football season. This game is set to kick off at 7:30 PM on September 6th at Davis Wade Stadium, with ESPN2 providing the broadcast. Both teams are entering this game with a 1-0 record, making for an intriguing early-season matchup.
Arizona State, ranked #12 in the AP Poll and #10 in the Coaches Poll, opened their season with a victory over Northern Arizona, winning 38-19. The Sun Devils showcased a balanced offensive attack, with 257 passing yards and 203 rushing yards in their opener. They will look to continue their strong start as they hit the road for the first time this season.
Mississippi State also started the season on a high note, defeating Southern Miss 34-17 on the road. The Bulldogs demonstrated their offensive capabilities, amassing 277 passing yards and 188 rushing yards. Playing at home for the first time this season, they aim to leverage the support of their fans at Davis Wade Stadium to secure another win.
Mississippi State vs Arizona State At a Glance
- Game Location: Davis Wade Stadium in Starkville, MS
- Game Time: Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 7:30 PM
- Broadcast Channel: ESPN2
- Arizona State Record: 1-0 this season
- Mississippi State Record: 1-0 this season
- Betting Odds: Arizona State favored with a moneyline of -236
Mississippi State Bulldogs Gear Up for Upcoming Challenges
Offensive Overview
The Mississippi State Bulldogs have shown considerable improvement in their offensive strategies this season. Ranking 25th in points for with an average of 34 points, the team has stepped up from last season’s 71st place. Their passing game has been particularly effective, with 277 passing yards ranking them 35th.
The Bulldogs’ rushing attack is also noteworthy, as they have achieved 188 rushing yards per game, securing the 49th spot. With 23 first downs, the Bulldogs stand 18th, demonstrating their ability to sustain drives and convert critical plays. The offense appears more balanced this season, with improvements in both the aerial and ground game.
Defensive Strengths
Defensively, Mississippi State’s performance has been stellar, allowing only 17 points against, ranking them 13th. Their ability to generate pressure on the quarterback is evident, with one sack ranking them 7th. The Bulldogs’ defense has also been effective in generating turnovers, with one interception ranking them 2nd, showcasing their ability to capitalize on opponents’ mistakes.
Although they haven’t recovered any fumbles this season, their rank of 4th indicates they are still strong in forcing fumble opportunities. With a defense that can hold opponents at bay and create turnovers, the Bulldogs’ defensive unit will be a key factor in their upcoming games. They will need to maintain this level of defensive play to continue their success.
Key Players
Quarterback Blake Shapen has been a standout performer, throwing for 270 yards and one touchdown. He ranks 32nd in passing yards and 63rd in passing touchdowns, showing promise for the Bulldogs’ offense. Running back Davon Booth has also made significant contributions with 79 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown, ranking 85th in rushing yards.
On the receiving end, Brenen Thompson leads the pack with seven receptions for 92 yards, ranking 33rd and 67th, respectively. These key players will be instrumental in the Bulldogs’ ability to maintain their offensive momentum and challenge their upcoming opponents.
Special Teams Contribution
Kyle Ferrie, the Bulldogs’ kicker, has been reliable, making two field goals and four extra points. His performance ranks him 14th in field goals made, providing crucial points for the team. The consistency in special teams can often be a game-changer, adding a layer of security for the Bulldogs.
Ferrie’s contributions in the kicking game will be essential as the Bulldogs progress through the season. Special teams’ performance is often underestimated, but it can be the difference in close games, making Ferrie’s role invaluable.
Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU Last 5: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU Last 10: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU as Favorite: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU in Day Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU in Away Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS Last 3: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS Last 5: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS Last 10: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS as Favorite: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS in Away Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U Last 3: 0-1 (0.0%)
- O/U Last 5: 0-1 (0.0%)
- O/U Last 10: 0-1 (0.0%)
- O/U All Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
- O/U as Favorite: 0-1 (0.0%)
- O/U in Away Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
- O/U Totals ≥ 50: 0-1 (0.0%)
Arizona State Sun Devils Prepare for Mississippi State Showdown
Quarterback Analysis
Arizona State’s quarterback, Sam Leavitt, has shown potential early in the season with a 257-yard passing performance. Ranking 40th in passing yards, Leavitt also added two touchdowns to his stat line, highlighting his ability to find the end zone. However, his single interception suggests areas for improvement in ball security.
The Sun Devils will need Leavitt to maintain his composure against Mississippi State’s defense. A balanced offensive attack will be crucial, given Leavitt’s reliance on both the pass and run game.
Running Back Performance
In the backfield, Kyson Brown emerged as the lead rusher with 73 yards in the season opener. While Raleek Brown added another 38 yards and a rushing touchdown, the duo’s performance will be tested against a potentially stouter Bulldogs defense.
The Sun Devils’ ground game will be essential in controlling the tempo and limiting Mississippi State’s offensive opportunities. Expect Arizona State to lean on its rushing depth to keep their drives alive.
Receiving Corps Impact
Jordyn Tyson stands out among the Sun Devils’ receivers, recording 141 receiving yards and two touchdowns. His performance ranks him 10th in the league, showcasing his explosive playmaking abilities.
With Malik McClain contributing a modest two receptions, the Sun Devils will look for other receivers to step up. Spreading the ball around will be key to keeping the Bulldogs’ secondary off balance.
Defensive Considerations
Arizona State’s defense ranks 14th in points allowed, demonstrating a strong start to the season. Their ability to generate pressure is evident, as they rank 5th with three sacks.
Interceptions remain a focus, as they rank 2nd with one interception. Maintaining this level of defensive disruption will be crucial against Mississippi State’s offense.
Betting Trends for Arizona State
- SU Last 3: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
Mississippi State vs Arizona State Prediction: Over 58.5
Arizona State enters this game with a potent offense that scored 38 points in their season opener. Ranked 23rd in points scored nationally, the Sun Devils have the capability to put up significant numbers. Their combination of a strong passing game and effective rushing attack should challenge the Mississippi State defense.
Mississippi State also demonstrated offensive firepower, scoring 34 points in their first game, ranking 25th in the nation. The Bulldogs’ balanced attack through both the air and ground can exploit Arizona State’s defense. With both teams having showcased strong offensive outputs, the potential for a high-scoring game is considerable.
Given that both teams’ defenses have shown vulnerabilities, particularly in last season’s performances, it’s reasonable to expect they might struggle to contain each other. The Bulldogs and Sun Devils have offenses that can exploit these weaknesses, suggesting a scoreline that could easily surpass the set total.
Additionally, considering last season’s encounter between these teams resulted in a combined score of 53, both teams have the capability to score more this time around. With both offenses firing on all cylinders, this game looks poised to go over the 58.5 total.
- Mississippi State vs Arizona State Prediction: Over 58.5
- Mississippi State vs Arizona State Score: Mississippi State 35 – Arizona State 31
