What's Happening?
Mississippi State achieved a significant upset by defeating No. 10 Arizona State with a 24-20 victory at Davis Wade Stadium in Starkville, Mississippi. The game concluded with a dramatic 58-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Blake Shapen to Brenen Thompson with only 30 seconds remaining. This victory marked Mississippi State's first win over a top-15 opponent in non-conference play since 1991. Following the win, fans stormed the field and tore down the goalposts, celebrating the unexpected triumph.
Why It's Important?
This victory is a major morale boost for Mississippi State, which had a challenging 2-10 season in 2024. The win not only breaks a long-standing losing streak against top-ranked non-conference opponents but also signals a potential turnaround under coach Jeff Lebby. However, the celebration could come at a cost, as the SEC has implemented a $500,000 fine for field-rushing incidents, which Mississippi State may face due to the fans' actions.
What's Next?
Mississippi State will face Alcorn State next, aiming to build on this momentum. The SEC's decision on whether to impose the fine will be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for future field-rushing incidents. Arizona State, on the other hand, will look to recover from this loss as they prepare to face Texas State.
