6. Tulsa’s passing game kept things fun
Zach Smith two big picks – including the massive interception for a touchdown – but he threw for 347 yards and a touchdown and got big days out of Keylon Stokes and JuanCarlos Santana. The two receivers combined for 13 catches for 229 yards for a passing game that was far, far better than Mississippi State’s. And …
5. The Mississippi State offense still didn’t really work
It blew up on LSU to start the season and had a few big games, but it also failed to hit 300 yards five times in ten games. Make that six in 11, gaining just 271 yards while struggling to do much to move the chains. The Bulldogs were outgained by 213 yards, struggled on third downs, and still won because …
"Gimme that" – @Tyrus_Wheat18
📺: @espn | #HailState🐶 pic.twitter.com/ds5rHNxEQ7
— Mississippi State Football (@HailStateFB) December 31, 2020
4. The defense and return game came through in a big, big way
Not to hammer on this, but the SEC-caliber talent was able to shine through in the other phases. Lideatrick Griffin averaged 34.5 yards per kickoff return, Emmanuel Forbes came up with a wild 90-yard pick six, and overall the team bent but didn’t break enough. Tulsa was often times the most physical team offensively, and the defense was strong, but …