Since Mike Leach’s passing in December 2022, Mississippi State football had struggled to find its footing. The 2-10 season in 2024, including a blowout home loss to a MAC school, marked rock bottom. But Jeff Lebby has steadily rebuilt the program, and the Bulldogs now look like they’re on the rise. It’s Mississippi State’s first 3-0 start since 2018 and their first shutout since 2017. In Week 3, they crushed Alcorn State 63-0 at Davis Wade Stadium. But the standout moment? Mississippi State’s final TD in the fourth quarter.

In the game, TDs came fast, with Blake Shapen throwing two scores and adding a rushing TD. Freshman Kamario Taylor dazzled with his first career touchdown on a trick play. And by halftime, the Bulldogs led 42-0. But when RB Seth Davis stepped onto the field and scored the last TD, it was a big moment for the program and for that young man.

“There’s a lot of guys deserving, but there is one guy… that’s been through a whole hell of a lot. It is the greatest team game in the world. Seth, you are the best teammate I’ve ever been around,” said Lebby in the locker room afterwards as he handed Davis the game ball. Lebby praised Davis for his resilience and dedication. It was his first game since a knee injury in the 2023 Egg Bowl, which sidelined him for the entirety of last season.

Lebby highlighted the special moment of giving Seth Davis carries late in the game as he continues his comeback from injury. “So having the opportunity to reward him and get him a couple of carries late as he’s still working back to get healthy, man, it’s special,” he said. And the coach emphasized the reaction from the team, saying, “All you have to do is look at our sideline. When he got the opportunity and how they responded, that’s what that dude means to us.” Because Davis’ return resonated with the Bulldogs, showing the impact of his leadership and resilience both on and off the field.

Seth Davis showed promise from the start, rushing for 359 yards as a freshman in 2023. He appeared in all 12 games and even earned a start before a knee injury sidelined him for the season. Interestingly, only two other SEC freshmen recorded more rushing yards that year. Fast forward to 2025; after missing the first two games, the Texas, native finally got his shot against Alcorn State. And he made every carry count, rushing twice for 31 yards and the score. RB Fluff Bothwell said, “Knowing what he’s been through, it’s hard to keep that love for the game, so he’s a tough guy.”

Jeff Lebby’s unique approach to the coin toss

Most coaches play it safe with the coin toss, choosing to defer and wait for the second half. Here, Jeff Lebby flips that tradition on its head. The Mississippi State HC wants the ball immediately, using the opening drive as a statement. Because to him, it’s more than just a possession. It’s a chance to grab control, set the pace, and put his opponent on the back foot from the very first snap.

“For us, especially on Saturday, it was about keeping their offense off the field and dictating how the game was played,” explained Lebby. “I wanted our guys out there first. Offensively, creating juice, momentum, being able to put a drive together. We’ve been able to do that two weeks in a row.” That aggressive mindset reflects Lebby’s belief that games are won by dictating tempo, not reacting to it. And interestingly, against No. 12 Arizona State in Week 2, the strategy worked to perfection.

The Bulldogs wasted no time, ripping off a four-play, 75-yard TD drive on their opening possession before forcing a punt. And by the end of the first quarter, they had built a commanding 17-0 lead. ASU never fully recovered, and MSU walked away with a stunning 24-20 upset. So, for Lebby, it wasn’t just about stealing a win. It was proof that his approach can change the game from the very first snap.