Mississippi State vs. Southern Miss: 2025 Season Opener Set for Late Kickoff
The Mississippi State Bulldogs are set to open their 2025 football season with a highly anticipated matchup against the Southern Miss Golden Eagles. The game is scheduled for Saturday, August 30, at M.M. Roberts Stadium in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Kickoff is slated for 9:00 p.m. local time (10:00 p.m. Eastern), making it one of the latest starts on college football’s opening weekend .(FBSchedules.com, Saturday Down South)
A Historic Rivalry Renewed
This season opener marks a significant moment in the longstanding rivalry between Mississippi State and Southern Miss. The Bulldogs and Golden Eagles have faced each other numerous times over the years, with Mississippi State holding a notable advantage in recent encounters. The last meeting between the two teams was in 2019, where the Bulldogs secured a victory at home .
The 2025 game will be the first of a home-and-home series between the two programs, with the return game scheduled to take place in Starkville in a future season . This series renewal is expected to reignite the competitive spirit between the in-state rivals and provide fans with thrilling matchups in the coming years.(
National Television Exposure
For the first time in program history, Mississippi State’s season opener will be broadcast on Fox Sports 1. This national television exposure offers the Bulldogs an excellent opportunity to showcase their talent to a broader audience. The late-night kickoff time is a strategic decision by the network, aiming to capture a national viewership audience during the prime-time slot .(Saturday Down South)
What to Expect from the Bulldogs
Entering the 2025 season, Mississippi State is under the leadership of head coach Jeff Lebby, who is entering his second season with the program. Coach Lebby has been instrumental in revitalizing the Bulldogs’ offense, implementing a high-tempo, pass-heavy system that has shown promising results. The 2025 roster boasts a blend of experienced upperclassmen and talented underclassmen, providing a solid foundation for the upcoming season.(Red Cup Rebellion)
The Bulldogs’ offense will be led by a dynamic quarterback, who has demonstrated the ability to make plays both in the air and on the ground. The receiving corps is deep and talented, with several playmakers capable of stretching the field and creating mismatches against opposing defenses. The offensive line has shown significant improvement, providing the necessary protection and creating running lanes for the backfield.
Defensively, Mississippi State returns a formidable front seven, known for their aggressive pass rush and stout run defense. The secondary has been bolstered with experienced cornerbacks and safeties, enhancing the team’s ability to defend against the pass. Special teams have also been a point of emphasis, with improvements in both the kicking and return games expected to contribute positively to the Bulldogs’ overall performance.
Golden Eagles’ Outlook
Southern Miss enters the 2025 season with a new head coach, Charles Huff, who is in his second year at the helm. Coach Huff has been working diligently to instill a culture of discipline and competitiveness within the program. The Golden Eagles return several key players on offense, including a dual-threat quarterback and a stable of running backs capable of breaking off big plays.(southernmiss.com)
Defensively, Southern Miss is expected to be aggressive, employing a scheme designed to pressure the quarterback and disrupt the opposing offense’s rhythm. The defensive line is expected to be a strength, with several returning starters who have the ability to control the line of scrimmage. The secondary will need to step up to defend against the pass, an area that has been a focus during the offseason.
Special teams will play a crucial role in the Golden Eagles’ success, with the potential to swing momentum in their favor through strong returns and solid kicking game performance.
Game Significance
The season opener holds significant importance for both programs. For Mississippi State, a victory would set a positive tone for the season and provide momentum heading into their home opener against Arizona State the following week. For Southern Miss, an upset win would not only boost team morale but also serve as a statement to the college football world that they are a program on the rise.
Both teams are eager to prove themselves, and the matchup is expected to be a hard-fought contest filled with intensity and passion. Fans from both sides are anticipated to fill M.M. Roberts Stadium, creating an electric atmosphere that will be felt throughout the night.(Saturday Down South)
Conclusion
The 2025 season opener between Mississippi State and Southern Miss is shaping up to be a memorable event in college football. With the late-night kickoff, national television exposure, and the rich history between the two programs, the game is poised to be a thrilling start to the college football season. As both teams take the field, they will carry with them the hopes and expectations of their fanbases, eager to begin their journey toward a successful season.
Fans can watch the game live on Fox Sports 1, with streaming options available through the Fox Sports app and website. For those attending the game in person, tickets are available through the Southern Miss athletics website.
As the countdown to kickoff continues, excitement builds for what promises to be an unforgettable night of college football.
