| 1996 | Oct | Nov | Dec | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1997 | Jan | Feb | March | April | May | June | July | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
| 1998 | Jan | Feb | March | April | May | June | July | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
| 1999 | Jan | Feb | March | April | May | June | July | Aug | Sep |
10/31/99 - Here is an opinion from one of you about several players on the Madison Central team:
BTW, here are some stats for several of the Madison Central players:
10/31/99 - Click here to read today's MSU football article in The Clarion-Ledger.
10/31/99 - According to a source of mine, Ladarian Johnson, a DB from Newton, continues to receive letters from State.
10/29/99 - Somebody knows not what they are talking about. D. Jordan's post on my message board is incorrect, according to a source close to Matt Buckles, Doug Buckles' dad. While the Buckles were impressed with Ole Miss during their visit there a few weeks ago, Doug has not decided to go there. As far as I know, the Buckles really like Mississippi State.
10/28/99 - The football team will take off today and Friday and will have a closed practice Saturday.
For those of you who have asked, the ball boy who was trying to get the crowd into the game last Saturday night was none other than Jeffrey Barlow, a sophomore at MSU via Warren Central HS in Vicksburg, Mississippi. Jeffrey, who I see at practice quite often, is a really nice guy who loves MSU.
10/27/99 - Here is an analysis of the MSU/KY game from a fan who knows both teams very well:
My assessment of next week's game:
OFFENSE:
Hal Mumme brings his troops to Starkville in search of a sixth victory which would make them eligible for an improbable bowl bid. And judging by what I have read, many of the Big Blue faithful (including some players) expect it. Good news though. UK football fans are not what I would call the world's most knowledgeable. Anyway, here goes my analysis.
Offense: The Cats will be the first true test for the JLD defense. Bonner is continuing to throw for a jillion yards, but they do miss Couch and their offensive line. Couch was able to avoid sacks by dumping it off to White in the flat. Coach Morriss said the other night that getting Bonner to do that is like pulling teeth. Look for them to work on that and try it more next Thursday.
I also wouldn't be surprised if they came out in some two tight end sets. I think they already would have tried some of that had Derrick Smith and Bobby Blizzard progressed as well as their press clippings indicated they might. This might give Bonner a little more protection.
Their center Nolan DeVaughn has had a nightmarish couple of weeks trying to snap the ball. Georgia picked up a trend on tape and were in the backfield all day last Saturday. They sacked Bonner 11 times. The rest of the line is inexperienced and looked pretty bad against Georgia. The key to derailing this offense is to jump out early and pin your ears back, because they don't run the ball when they are behind. The running game is actually pretty effective when they have a lead.
Summary: The Bulldog's average points against will go up. I would expect UK to score at least 24 points, because they do have the ability to burn a blitz better than anyone.
DEFENSE:
Coach Donnan of Georgia summed up their defensive like this. When asked what was the difference between this year's defense and last year's he replied "the schedule". And UK's defensive success came against UCONN, IU, SC, and LSU. Many Cat fans will tell you they played well against Florida, but Spurrier called off the dogs at halftime. They could have put up at least 50.
UK can stop the run in the middle, but you can burn 'em on the corners. I wouldn't be surprised if they don't play some 3-4, to take away the crossing patterns over the middle. They can certainly be had there. They do have more speed at the corners and are much better against the deep ball that Madkin was so effective with last year. You beat them underneath, because their linebackers are not that athletic.
Summary: Their philosophy is to get the ball back in the offense's hands as soon as possible. Yards mean nothing to them. They live and die by the turnover on defense. If you can hold onto the ball, you can move it against them, which you have to do to beat UK. State's offense needs some 7-8 minute drives, even if they only result in FG's.
SPECIAL TEAMS:
This is where they have improved the most, even though they have had trouble getting punts off. They don't punt a lot. I can't remember a game during the Hal Mumme era that they didn't try to block a punt. He has given the up back, Simon, the green light. The failed attempt against Georgia was the first in three years. Mumme called it and Simon tried to talk him out of it, but he stuck to his guns. He admitted it was stupid after the game (that is what is so refreshing about Mumme). He said that UGA "tricked him into trying it" after their first punt attempt. He must have seen something in a formation that made him try it.
Summary: I have been a little disappointed in MSU's special teams play this year, and I don't think it is as big of an edge as it has been.
Prediction: Don't want to get into that, but the Bullies better score if they expect to go 8-0, because I expect UK to move the ball, even against the great Dawg defense.
10/26/99 (10:30 a.m.) - Due to difficulties beyond his control, MSU assistant football coach/recruiting coordinator David Wilson's email system is not able to send out emails. Coach Wilson is able to receive your emails but can't respond due to a problem within the system. Please continue emailing him with any player info that you may have.
10/26/99 (10:30 a.m.) - If you live in any of the following locations, please visit my
MSU Events Section for the latest events that are occurring in October and November:
MSU Campus
Huntsville, AL.
Hernando, MS.
Washington, D.C.
Atlanta, GA.
Jackson, MS.
Houston, TX.
Starkville, MS.
Meridian, MS.
Memphis, TN.
New Orleans, LA.
Lakewood, CO.
Little Rock, AR.
10/26/99 - The Citrus and Fiesta Bowls had reps at the game this past Saturday night.
10/26/99 - Due to an illness, Simpson Academy kicker Drew Boteler was unable to attend the MSU - LSU football game.
10/25/99 (11:45 a.m.) - Please put MSU student Chuck Starita on your prayer list. Chuck, who is in very, very serious condition, is in the IC Unit at St. Dominic's in Jackson, MS. Please take a few moments to help this young man with your prayers.
Just received a call from a relative of Chuck's. He is in critical but stable condition. Without going into too much detail, the next 10 to 12 hours are now the most critical for Chuck. Any help you can give with your prayers may be what saves this young man's life.
10/25/99 (11:20) - Vote for our Bulldog players on the SEC Team of the Millennium. Click here to go to the location where you can vote.
10/25/99 (11:00) - Here is a BCS Article from ABC Sports. The BCS rankings will be mentioned at halftime tonight during the Monday Night NFL football game.
Anyone who has ever been to Beaver Stadium the last few years to see JoePa's Penn State Nittany Lions play might recall the sign hanging behind the scoreboard when entering the stadium. It lists the years Penn State won national championships..... click here for the rest of the article.
10/25/99 - MSU is now 8th in the nation in both polls.
Poll Links:
USA Today/ESPN Football Poll
AP Top 25 Football Poll
10/25/99 - Chris Jones of Florence (MS) HS visited MSU for homecoming with his dad and younger brother and teammate Cory. Chris, according to my source, has taken unofficial visits to Ole Miss,La. Tech, Delta State, and two trips to MSU. Chris has 34 catches for 410 yards and 37 rushes for 369 yards. He also holds for extra points and returns punts and kick-offs. Has thrown 4 passes with 3 completions, 2 going for touchdowns. Other schools showing interest are Central Florida, Arkansas State, Memphis, Bucknell, Alabama, Auburn, and Oregon State.
Another unofficial visitor was Simpson Academy's outstanding senior placekicker Drew Boteler.
10/24/99 - It wasn't pretty but it made history. With last night's 17-16 victory over LSU, MSU, for the first time in its history, is 7-0. It also marked the first time in school history that MSU is 4-0 in the SEC.
Other Game Notes:
A few recruits I saw at the game (unless otherwise noted, they are seniors):
10/23/99 - Mark Roman, LSU's outstanding defensive back, will not play due to contact with an agent and Jarvis Green, LSU's great defensive end, will not play due to injury.
10/23/99 - Don't forget that the potential recruits who will be at our game today will be mingling with the MSU players as they do their walk-through at 3 p.m. Please be there if at all possible. The walk-through will be located on the road running parallel to the west side of Scott Field.
10/22/99 - Guess who else besides our players are doing that two hours before the game walk-through the crowd thing? None other than the potential recruits that will be attending this Saturday's game. Be on your best behavior and make sure they know we would love to see them at MSU someday.
Look for a lot of top recruits among this bunch of players. Included among them will be Marquez Dupree, a junior running back from Philadelphia HS. And to answer your question, yes he is the son of Marcus Dupree.
Please make every effort to be at the Greet-the-Players Walk-Through Saturday.
10/22/99 - Things to do at MSU this afternoon and night:
10/21/99 (10:10 a.m.) - The Lodge is sponsoring a Meet Bulldog Football Legends book signing this Friday from 3 p.m. through 5 p.m.
MSU football heroes, John Bond, Johnie Cooks, Kent Hull and Harper Davis, along with SEC MVP's Art Davis and Hal Easterwood, along with MSU head football coach Jackie Sherrill, will be at The Lodge signing the following books or a limited edition commemorative print:
If you can't make it but would like to buy a book or print with the players or Coach Sherrill's autographs, you can call The Lodge at phone number 1-800-685-4678 and reserve a copy with your credit card.
10/21/99 (10:00 a.m.) - If you were one of the individuals who purchased one of the new lockers, you are cordially invited by the MSU Football Office to visit the locker room Friday or Saturday this weekend. Visiting time Friday is from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, you can visit the locker room from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Please contact the MSU Football Office at 662-325-2539 if you plan on attending. Only those folks who have purchased a locker will be allowed to view the locker rooms.
Please enter at the Southwestern (SW) gate located on the ground floor of the Leo Seal Building which is located at the South (S) end of Scott Field.
10/21/99 (9:20 a.m.) - Recruiting tidbit:
Mize (MS) HS - Eric Horn is being recruited by MSU, Southern Miss, Ole Miss and Alabama. Another Mize player, Timmy Blackwell, is also being recruited by MSU.
10/21/99 - Just a tidbit from practice:
(A couple of you have emailed me saying you are disappointed in my posting the passing from the punt formation comment this morning. Considering LSU puts a huge rush on the punter, I'm sure they are half expecting we might do this. Obviously, we need to practice it if we are even thinking about doing it. Just because we are practicing it, doesn't mean we will use it.)
10/21/99 - Advertisement: If you are looking for a computer and you would like to buy from a Mississippi-owned and operated company, look no farther than Howard Computers. Click here to visit their website.
10/20/99 (1:00 p.m.) - Marie Thomas, Co-Director of Athletic Support for the MSU Student Association, emailed me yesterday. They are working on several ideas for the upcoming sporting events. Here are several of them. If you have other ideas, email Marie at vmt1@Ra.MsState.Edu
1. Thurs, 6:30, October 21 - Homecoming pep rally featuring the kickoff team, Coach Tompkins, cheerleaders and the pom squad.
2. Fri, October 22 - Maroon and white day all students wear white.
3. Sat, October 23 - Pep rally and greet the team at 3:00 pm.
4. Wed., Nov. 3 - Midnight Pep rally. We are having a pep rally, midnight, at the MSU amphitheater. We are looking to possibly do a 2-in-one and have a basketball midnight madness along with the Kentucky pep rally. All of this is in the working, but the midnight pep rally is a go!
5. We are also selling maroon t-shirts the Kentucky week to have the entire student body in maroon for the ESPN game....
HERE IS THE KICKER....We want to name Scott Field the DAWG HOUSE, you know like The Swamp...etc. This term would be coined that Thursday night by asking Hank Flick to say welcome to the "Dawg House". All of the t-shirts being sold would say: "ESPN comes to the DAWG HOUSE". We could even paint the name on that wooden platform below the Jumbotron if approved by the MSU Athletic Department!
10/19/99 - MSU is now 11th and 12th in the two major football polls.
10/19/99 - Coach Sherrill wants to know how much support he has prior to contacting the SEC office to protest the kickoff dance change. To show your support for the kickoff dance, please email me at swindoll@genespage.com and I will give him all of your emails this Thursday. Please make it to the attention of Coach Jackie Sherrill. Your reference subject should be The Kickoff Dance.
This Thursday's pep rally will have a special treat. Our very own kickoff team has received a special invitation to attend and will be performing the Dog Pound Rock. The pep rally begins at 6:30 p.m. and, as always, will be at the amphitheater.
10/19/99 - Here is a great idea that was emailed to me. It might be of interest to those of you who don't have tickets to the MSU/LSU game.
"Bulldog fans can throw a couple of lawn chairs into the car trunk and head to Starkville. If they do not find tickets outside the stadium by kickoff (I personally think they will find tickets), they can go get the lawn chairs, sit in front of Dorman Hall and watch the game on the Jumbo-Tron while still having the feel of the game. This way, they still will have more fun than sitting at home, plus they can still participate in the player walk-through (important for recruiting purposes and fun as well) and tailgate before and after the game."
10/19/99 - Recruiting update:
10/19/99 - Advertisement: This weekend don't forget to visit The Grill, a Gene's Page advertiser. The Grill has some of the best food in Starkville and they are true Bulldog fans and supporters. Visit The Grill's website by clicking here.
Please support fellow Bulldog fans who support my page. Without these special Bulldog fans, who have supported me financially, it would have been very difficult to do Gene's Page the past few years.
10/18/99 - Although I am sure there were others at the Ole Miss game this past weekend, I know that two of MSU's prime recruits, Madison Central HS offensive lineman Doug Buckles and Pillow Academy kicker Jonathan Nichols, attended the game. I have also been told that both will be attending the MSU / LSU game this coming weekend. In fact, it wouldn't surprise me if MSU has a very, very large number of high school and junior college players at this weekend's game.
It is very, very important that if you have tickets for the game that you attend or, if you can't make it, make sure another Bulldog fan uses your tickets. I realize it is a hard sellout but with ESPN2 televising the game, there may be some of you who might be tempted to take the easy way out and stay at home and watch the game. Please consider that your presence not only could literally affect the game but it could also have a detrimental effect as to what the recruits think about our school. Having a lot of no-shows can only harm MSU's efforts.
10/18/99 Player info:
Gerald Turner, running back from Portland, TN. Here are his stats.
Games - 7
Carries - 77
Yards - 808
Yards/Carry - 10.4
TD's - 11
His 11 TD's are the most in the North Nashville area. Portland is currently 7-0 on the season.
10/18/99 - Advertisement: If you are looking for an air purifier, Jack D'Arcy's Mountain Air Products presents "Mountain Fresh Air" to breeze through your home or indoor working environment. Click here to go to Mountain Air Products website and read about their purifiers. Mary Ann and I purchased one and are very pleased with it.
10/16/99 - To see one man's opinion of who the nations top 100 football recruits are click here. To view a list of the 101-250 prospects, click here.
10/15/99 (9:45 a.m.) - Click here to go to ESPN main college football page. They have a very nice story about MSU. Also, vote in the fan poll today.
10/15/99 - Auburn picked up a very good commitment in Derek Crudup, a QB from Florida. I wonder if someone has told Jason Campbell about this?
Keep me updated on what commitments other SEC teams get. Most of these schools are recruiting directly against MSU.
10/15/99 - Here's a picture that I have received from A LOT of Bulldog fans. Thanks, folks.
10/15/99 - Here's a little info I received via email. Thought you might find it interesting.
A lady named Mabel Thomas, who was a HUGE MSU supporter in this area, had a stroke several months ago and is now in a rehab center in Georgia (Columbus, I think). Anyway, one of our board members contacted Jackie Sherrill's office and told them about her hoping he would call her or write her. And guess what, Jackie came by to see her over the weekend. Just thought you might want to know this. A board member told us all at our meeting last night. Everyone was truly touched to say the least!!
10/15/99 - Advertisement: If you are looking to buy a vehicle, Mike Colbert, of Colbert Auto World, is the guy you need to contact. Considering Colbert Auto World has been providing MSU with vehicles since 1971, you sure can't go wrong. Check out their website by clicking here.
10/14/99 - Huntsville paper reported Monday that.....
Auburn had received commitments from:
Alabama has commitments from:
10/13/99 (1:00 p.m.) - I have been emailed a question about whether the Dog Pound Rock (MSU's kick off dance) has been banned by the SEC. The simple answer is no, it has not been banned. There has been a request by the SEC that the dance be done in front of the MSU bench and not in the middle of the field.
My personal opinion: It appears the SEC understands that this dance is not done to taut the other team but also sees how opposing teams and their fans might see it as such, so they have come up with a solution that tones it down a bit but allows our team to continue to dance.
Before you think the SEC is picking on MSU, here is one other item of note: The officials have also been requested by the SEC office to crack down on stomping of logos. The SEC sees this as having the potential to create a dangerous situation for both teams, coaches, and officials when the visitor decides to stomp on the home team's logo.
10/13/99 - To view my updated list of football players that I know MSU is recruiting, click here.
10/13/99 - Advertisement: If you live in the Canton, Ridgeland or Clinton areas and are interested in locating a top quality optometrist, look no farther than Optical 2000. Ask for Dr. Craig, who specializes in contact lens, cataracts, dry eye therapy and laser surgery consultation. He received his Doctor of Optometry degree from the Southern College of Optometry in 1974. Dr. Craig is currently a member of the Contact Lens Section of the American Optometric Association. If you would like to know more about Optical 2000, visit their website at http://www.optical2k.com/.
10/11/99 (12:00 p.m.) - I just got off the phone with Dr. Rusty Linton, one of MSU's team doctors. According to Dr. Linton, MSU quarterback Wayne Madkin will have surgery this afternoon to have a pin put in his injured finger. Dr. Linton also said it normally takes about six weeks for the type injury Wayne had, to heal. Dr. Linton and the other MSU medical staff are trying to figure out if Wayne can safely play with his type injury prior to the time it completely heals. As Dr. Linton emphasized, before they will allow Wayne to play, the doctors have to know for sure that Wayne's finger is protected so that there will not be a chance it might be re-injured or aggravated. His safety is paramount. As of now, any talk of what game Wayne might be able to play in is purely rumor and speculation.
10/11/99 (12:00 p.m.) - SEC Football games to be televised October 23rd.
ESPN2 - LSU @ MIssissippi State 5:00 Central Time
Jefferson Pilot - Kentucky @ Georgia 12:30 Eastern Time
CBS - Tennessee @ Alabama 2:30 Central Time
10/11/99 - MSU is 12th in both the AP and the ESPN football polls.
10/11/99 - Here's a tidbit from my premium site.
Check out Rob's premium recruiting site at Alliance Sports for ALL that you want to know about recruiting.
As the recruiting process progresses rumors run rampant about who is going where. This is the latest on what some of the top players have told me about where they are going. As you will notice this may differ from what you hear other places but this comes straight from the proverbial "horses' mouth."
Defensive back Tavarus Horne (6-1, 190-lbs., 4.4) from Hattiesburg lists Ole Miss, Florida State, Mississippi State, LSU and Texas as his top schools. Ole Miss appears to be the leader. He has already received scholarship offers from Ole Miss and Mississippi State. He plans to visit Ole Miss and Mississippi State for at least one home game each before the end of the season.
Athlete Ray Ray Bivines (6-1, 170-lbs., 4.37) from Gautier has accounted for 900 total yards (600 rushing and 300 passing) and 19 touchdowns while leading his team to a 5-0 mark. Tennessee, LSU, Mississippi State, and Ole Miss are his favorites. LSU was the clear leader before their recent losing streak. All of his favorites appear to have an equal chance now.
Safety Jonathan Bell (5-11, 175-lbs., 4.4) has already recorded 63 tackles and 1 interception this year while leading Tupelo High to a 4-2 record. He says that South Carolina, Mississippi State, Ole Miss, Tennessee, Arkansas State, and Southern Miss are his top schools and Mississippi State, Ole Miss, ASU, and South Carolina have already offered him a scholarship. As an exceptional baseball player, Mississippi State, Alabama and South Carolina have offered him the opportunity to play both sports. He has visited Mississippi State on numerous occasions including the home games against MTSU, Memphis, and South Carolina.
Linebacker Jo Jo Scott (6-3, 230-lbs., 4.5) from Hattiesburg has totaled 68 tackles (11 for loss) and 7 sacks in his first 5 games of the season. He has broken up 3 passes, caused 5 fumbles, and recovered 3 fumbles. His top schools right now are Mississippi State, Ole Miss, South Carolina, Florida, Florida State, and Tennessee. He will probably commit in December after taking all 5 visits. He should have no problems qualifying with a 3.0 GPA and an 18 on the ACT.
Linebacker/ defensive end J. J. Grant (6-4, 225-lbs., 4.57) from Clinton has totaled 54 tackles, 10 sacks, 1 interception while breaking up 8 passes and causing 3 fumbles in leading Clinton High to a 4-1 record. He has a lot of interest from South Carolina, Clemson, Mississippi State, and Ole Miss. He attended the Mississippi State - Oklahoma State and Mississippi State - South Carolina games and had great experiences at both. He has an official visit to Notre Dame on December 10th and has made tentative plans to visit Clemson in January.
Quarterback Jason Campbell from Taylorsville has thrown for over 1000 yards and 6 touchdowns to begin the year and has led his team to a 4-2 start. Georgia, LSU, Florida, Auburn, and LSU lead his list. He plans to take official visits to these schools. He will not commit until December or January. He is a good student and should qualify easily.
10/11/99 - Advertisement: If you are going to be in the Jackson, MS. area this month, check out the Mississippi Sports and Hall of Fame Museum. Click here to get a sneak preview of some of the things they offer for your viewing pleasure. They have something for everybody.
10/10/99 - Game recaps from various sources.
10/10/99 - Premium site tidbit for your reading pleasure.
Offensive lineman Wes Shivers:
GS: What did you think of the Auburn linemen?
Shivers: They're great. We struggled with them. I felt like we played good. We just weren't executing like we did last week. You've got to take your hats off to Auburn. They have a great defense. They came out and had their gameplan right and they were playing hard.
GS: Some fans, like me, gave up. Did you guys ever think the game was over?
Shivers: We never gave up. Over my years in football, I have learned you never give up. You keep fighting until the end whether your are losing or not. You can't quit. When you quit once, it becomes easier to quit again. You can't let your mind start thinking you are out of the game. That's the only time you are out of the game, when you let your mind think you are.
GS: What did you guys do differently at the end of the game? You hadn't scored a touchdown the entire game, then you score two touchdowns within 2+ minutes.
Shivers: We went into our hurry up offense. It's the offense where you go without a huddle. I feel like we weren't giving their defense enough time to set and catch their breath. We were wearing them down. I really feel like that was a key to the touchdowns.
GS: What did you think about Matt Butler's touchdown catch?
Shivers: It was an unbelievable catch. You have to give Matt all of the credit on that catch. Two guys went for the same ball and Matt came down with it for the winning touchdown. It doesn't get any better than that.
GS: Was it special to see the senior, Matt Wyatt, come into the game and do so well?
Shivers: Matt came up to me at halftime and told me that he was going into the game at quarterback. He looked kind of nervous. I told him, look buddy, just get out there and play your game. We are going to play our hearts out to keep them away from you. I said, just do you job and that we have faith in you.
GS: What would you like to see our fans do for the LSU game? Would you guys love to see a sellout?
Shivers: That's what I want to see. I've never seen our stadium full. I want to see our stadium full. I want to see all of the fan support there. I don't know if it is going to be on television or not, but that shouldn't matter. Our true fans, I feel like, will be there at the game supporting us. It makes a lot of difference if a team's fans are behind them.
10/08/99 - I went to practice yesterday to see what the attitude of the team is. They really looked focused. They seem to realize how important the upcoming game is.
A player on the scout team who made a couple of really good catches during practice was redshirt freshman wide receiver David Crawley. David played for Winston Academy, which is located in Louisville, Miss.
Another wide receiver who has consistently looked outstanding in practices is freshman Milas Randle. Milas is sitting out this year due to being a partial qualifier. Look for great things from Milas during his career.
10/07/99 - The Lodge has a great book available that is called Sherrill: The Inspiring Comeback of Mississippi State Football Coach Jackie Sherrill. It's a short history of Coach Sherrill's coaching career from his years at Pitt to MSU's Cotton Bowl appearance. If you have the chance, go by and buy one (costs $19.95). I got mine yesterday. If everything goes according to plan, Coach Sherrill will be at The Lodge autographing the book on October 22nd, the Friday before the LSU game.
10/06/99 - From the premium site: Jackie Sherrill press conference comments:
There were a lot of players that played well last week. One who I was really pleased with was Rob Knight. Rob came in for Bobby Pressley and had 6 tackles, 2 assists, 3 tackles for losses and 2 pressures. He made some plays because of his speed. He caught some people from behind. Barrin Simpson played well. And Barris Grant played well. Ellis Wyms probably played his best game with 5 tackles, 1 assist, 1 for a loss and 2 sacks. Offensively, Wes Shivers really played well. He has been the most consistent up front. Rod Gibson and Kenny Williamson had really good games. Right now, we wish we had red-shirted Rod Gibson last year. His attitude and practice habits are really excellent. Chris Rainey had a really good game. He had two really good open field runs where he made them miss tackles.
What concerns me is this is the sixth week in a row that we have played a game. In this league, six weeks takes its tow. It is very evident when you consider that we had 17 guys on Sunday who were getting treatment. We had 5 who missed practice yesterday and it looks like they will miss today. They are Cooper, Rainey, Pressley, Smoot (and one name I couldn't make out). What concerns me is getting them ready to play.
Auburn is a team that is a very mature team. They are senior dominated team defensively, especially, with 8 seniors and 3 juniors starting. One of the seniors got an extra year and he is an outstanding player. They have not allowed anybody to really run on them. No one has rushed for over a 100 yards in the last six games. They play pass defense extremely well with 12 interceptions. That goes back to the schemes that they play. They have 8 men on the line of scrimmage which forces you to throw the ball.
Offensively, they have 4 seniors and 5 juniors who have played a lot. They have 1 red-shirt freshman running back and 1 true freshman receiver.
Auburn is a team that has played very well. Last week against Tennessee, that game went right down to the 4th quarter. Even the Mississippi game, which they lost in overtime, they very well could have won that one if they had made the field goal. They very likely could have had just 1 loss.
This game, for us, is a very pivotal game. It is a game that we have to play with guys that are not healthy. We are going to have to play in a place that is very difficult to play in. We are going to play a team that has a lot of very talented players. A lot of our players are going to have to play above their ability to make up for the others that aren't playing up to 100%.
A few questions from the media:
You are ranked 14th, how good are you really?
Sherrill: Well, that is a hard question to answer. Defensively, we are very good. I think we are good in the kicking game, although we have not done some things in the return game that we would like to have done. Offensively, we have not been real consistent. We have not thrown and caught. We are going to see 8 people on the line of scrimmage this week. We are not going to be able to knock people off of the ball like we did last year. We were able to do that last year because of our tight end, because of Randy Thomas and also because of J.J. Johnson. And because of Dennis McKinley. Those guys were able to dominate certain things. McKinley was an extremely valuable player because of how physical he was at fullback.
A question was asked about Wayne Madkin's performance this year.
Sherrill: He's done a very good job. Even two weeks ago he made the right checks, and made the right calls. And all of a sudden we just didn't catch it and one receiver didn't run his route. The biggest thing that he has done is take care of the ball. Other than one bad game, he has protected the ball very well.
A question about Cornell Menafee was asked.
Sherrill: Cornell is a young man who coming out of high school had talent but wasn't as big as people wanted him to be. We took a chance on him and it paid off. He has really turned into a good, solid football player.
A question about the Auburn quarterbacks was asked.
Sherrill: Leard was really on a roll. He was making all the right checks and he was very comfortable. That was something you noticed more and more. He has really turned into a good player for them. Even last year, when we played them, we thought Leard was the best.
The young receiver Daniels has made some good plays for them.
How has Pig Prather done at free safety?
Sherrill: He isn't anywhere near what he is going to be. When he gets out there the rest of this year, he'll end up being a guy back there like Ashley Cooper. There will be few mistakes that he will make. He is really a gifted athlete.
When will the cast come off of Terrence McCaskey?
Sherrill: The cast will come off this Thursday. As soon as the cast is off, they will put him in a splint cast, which he will have to wear for four weeks. He will be able to practice, be able to do what he has to do or can do depending on how much pain he can tolerate. He'll be protected so that he won't reinjure it.
The good thing is his legs will be fresh. He has stayed in shape. He probably could play half of the game very easily. He will be a good addition for us because he has really turned out to be an outstanding player for us. He didn't get the recognition because he was always the backside tight end but he is a good player. He will not make the mistakes a freshman will make.
10/05/99
STARKVILLE, Miss. -- The Mississippi State athletic ticket office announced Monday that all tickets for the Bulldogs' homecoming football game with LSU, Oct. 23, had been sold.
A limited number of tickets still remain for State's final two home games, Thursday, Nov. 4 against Kentucky and Thursday, Nov. 25 vs. Mississippi.
The MSU athletic ticket office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (CT) and may be reached at 662-325-2600.
Source: MSU Athletic Department Media Relations
10/05/99 - I have received a request from a fellow Bulldog fan who, along with his family, have recently moved to Portland, Oregon. They want to know if there are any other Bulldog fans in that area. Contact me via email at swindoll@genespage.com if you are interested in contacting this Bulldog fan.
10/05/99 - Here is a tidbit of premium site info:
On the offensive side of the ball, running backs Dontae Walker and Dicenzo Miller seemed to be running the ball very well in practice. All indications are both will play this weekend. Running back Chris Rainey did not practice. From what I was told, he also was a little banged up but should be fine for the game.
Injured tight end Terrence McCaskey was at practice yesterday (as usual) but is still not practicing with the team.
Our football team will arrive at Jordan-Hare Stadium two hours prior to the game. Their bus will enter through the south end zone gate. It sure would be nice if we would gather to meet them like we did at Ole Miss last year. That really got them fired up.
10/05/99 - To all greater Fort Worth, Texas Bulldog fans.
All Tarrant County Bulldogs need to check the Fort Worth (TX) Alumni Association Chapter web page about this weekend's televised game. They will be meeting at the Red, Blue and Hot Cafe in Arlington, TX. (right by the ballpark) to watch State beat Auburn.
10/05/99 - MSU has shown some interest in Jackson (MS) Provine HS offensive lineman Everett Speaks. The Southwest Louisiana (may have changed their university name) Ragun Cajuns have shown a great deal of interest in Everett as has Tulane.
10/05/99 Source: MSU Media Relations Department:
Saturday's Mississippi State-Auburn game will the 51st time in Jackie Sherrill's 97 games at the head of the Bulldog football program that the school has appeared on live network television. State has won nine of its last 11 regular-season television games, and are 17-9 on the tube since 1996. MSU looks to move above the .500 mark in TV games under Sherrill, currently standing 25-25 since 1991.
The Bulldogs have now scored in 23 straight games dating back to mid-1997. State's current scoring streak is the seventh-longest in school history. MSU's shutout at Georgia two years ago ended a 76-game scoring skein that was the longest in the SEC at the time, and second-longest in school history. The Bulldogs need three more games in which they score to move up to a tie for fifth on the longest streaks without being shutout list. Instrumental to that scoring stat has been a revitalized passing attack that has thrown for eight touchdowns in the first five games. State only threw 11 TD passes all last year.
In holding their first five opponents to just 42 points, the Bulldog defense has been stifling. In MSU's season-opening win over Middle Tennessee, the lone touchdown allowed by the Bulldogs came on the final play of the game; against Memphis, the only six-pointer came on a 23-yard drive set up by a blocked punt; Oklahoma State's only score came on an interception return; and the defense shut out South Carolina. This past Saturday, one of Vanderbilt's two TDs came on a fumble return, therefore, State's defense has allowed just 28 points in five games. In 68 possessions against MSU's defense thus far, opponents have been held to three plays or less 31 times (45.6 percent), and have gained less than 10 yards on a series 33 times (48.5 percent). MSU's defense is ranked fourth in the nation in scoring defense (8.4), second in the country in total defense (205.6) and seventh among Division I-A schools in pass efficiency defense (84.6). In MSU's last six regular season games, the defense has held the opponent to one touchdown or less.
Mississippi State has posted a 21-7 regular-season record in its last 28 games, dating back to the final contest of the 1996 campaign. Over that time span, that record is easily the best in the Southeastern Conference's Western Division. State's 21-7 mark ranks ahead of Mississippi (17-11), LSU and Alabama (16-12). Arkansas and Auburn have posted 15-13 regular-season ledgers during that time frame. MSU's record in the most recent 28 games trails only Tennessee (26-2), Florida and Georgia (22-6) in the league as a whole. Kentucky (15-13), Vanderbilt (8-20) and South Carolina (7-21) round out the Eastern Division.
Following MSU's 42-14 win over Vanderbilt, the Bulldogs advanced to 13th nationally in the ESPN/USA Today Coaches Poll, 14th in the Associated Press Sportswriters Poll. MSU's poll position is its highest since Week 8 of the 1986 season when that team also earned a national ranking of 13th by both national polls.
10/04/99 - MSU has moved up to 14th in the AP poll and 13th in the ESPN poll. Links are provided above.
Defensively, State is 2nd in the nation in total yards allowed per game and 4th in total points allowed per game. Click here to go the official NCAA link where you can find this info.
10/01/99 (11:05 a.m.) - Thanks to one of you for emailing me a note that you received from Vanderbilt coach Woody Widenhofer. There's nothing controversial in it but it is interesting reading.
For the first time since 1984, Vanderbilt's football team is 3-1 with the 16th ranked team in the nation coming to Dudley Field this Saturday at 1:00.
Support your COMMODORES! The intimacy of our stadium provides the opportunity to be extremely intimidating. Our players need you -- they need Vanderbilt students, faculty and staff to come early and ROCK. Intimidate Mississippi State; make it impossible for them to hear signals over the noise of the crowd; hype our team; celebrate big plays!
To insure that the Vanderbilt community is in the stands, we're offering a "buy 1 get 1 free" ticket for this game. Show your faculty/staff ID to be eligible. Buy your tickets at the ticket office at McGugin Center on Jess Neely Drive, across the street from Dudley Field.
Look forward to seeing all of you at the game. Remember WEAR YOUR GOLD and CHEER LOUDLY!!!
10/01/99 - Don't forget about the big tailgate party and pep rally this Saturday:
10/01/99 - According to The Clarion-Ledger, Co-Lin CC offensive lineman Tommy Watson (6-4, 315) has re-committed to MSU. Tommy, if you remember, signed with MSU last year but did not have the academic requirements to attend State coming out of a Georgia JUCO. He will be a junior in eligibility. For those of you who asked, Tommy is not related to the late Pat Watson.
10/01/99 - At the moment Gautier HS quarterback Ray Ray Bivines is an LSU lean with MSU very much in the picture.