PLAYERS TO WATCH
–QB Nick Fitzgerald returned to the dual-threat capability last week, throwing for 241 yards and two touchdowns and rushing for 88 yards and two more scores. Fitzgerald had struggled in the passing game in league play but completed 14 of his 22 throws against Texas A&M.
–S Jaquarius Landrews has flourished since taking over the starting job and was all over the field last week. Landrews notched seven tackles, 2.5 for loss, two sacks and broke up three passes.
–LB Erroll Thompson has earned the reputation as a ferocious hitter and had his share of big sticks against the Aggies. But it was Thompson’s interception in the end zone of Kellen Mond that may have been the Bulldogs’ biggest defensive play.
–CB Chris Rayford has been excellent in coverage this season, switching from safety to cornerback due to some injuries. But Rayford has also had an impact on special teams where he has had a knack of downing punts at the 1-yard line.
–S Marcus Murphy made an impact on special teams early on in the season. Now the true freshman is seeing more and more snaps in the secondary and will be a future star in the SEC.
SERIES HISTORY: MSU leads Louisiana Tech 10-3 overall and 9-2 in Starkville.
QUOTE TO NOTE: “We discussed with our team the need to compete against the standard and not an opponent. Consistent habits will yield consistent results. We need to have a great week of practice, play with tremendous effort and execute our scheme with precision, one rep at a time for four quarters, and if that occurs, the score will take care of itself.” — MSU coach Joe Moorhead.
