Vanderbilt holds off Mississippi State to win its first SEC game 25-17

Starkville, Miss. (AP) — Vanderbilt held off a late rally from Mississippi State to secure their first SEC win of the season, defeating the Bulldogs 25-23 on Saturday. This victory marks a significant turnaround for the Commodores, who had been on a five-game losing streak prior to this game.

Vanderbilt took an early lead, leading 16-0 at halftime. However, Mississippi State managed to score two touchdowns in just 52 seconds, bringing the score to within two points in the third quarter. Despite this early push, Vanderbilt responded with two consecutive field goals, turning the game into a two-point affair.

MSU pushed the ball deep into Vanderbilt territory late in the fourth quarter, but could not score a touchdown. The Commodores sealed the victory with another field goal, and the Bulldogs ultimately settled for a field goal of their own. Vanderbilt added another field goal, and the Bulldogs responded with a touchdown from A.J. Swann to Sanfrisco Magee. However, Vanderbilt's subsequent two-point conversion attempt fell short.

Vanderbilt opened the scoring with a field goal in the first quarter, and capitalized on their next possession by marching 87 yards in just over 10 minutes. This 87-yard drive, spanning 18 plays, pushed Vanderbilt to a 10-0 lead midway through the second quarter. Mississippi State struggled to contain Vanderbilt's early attacks, failing to make a first down on four consecutive drives between the first and second quarters.

With just 1:37 remaining in the half, Jordan Matthews intercepted A.J. Swann, setting up a Vanderbilt field goal to extend their halftime lead to 16-0. The Bulldogs managed to score first in the third quarter, as Swann connected with Sanfrisco Magee for a 65-yard touchdown. Vanderbilt answered with another field goal, bringing the score to 16-14 with 10:28 left in the third quarter.

In summary, Vanderbilt's defense stifled Mississippi State's offense throughout the game, capitalizing on the Bulldogs' defensive breakdowns. Mississippi State's offense, however, struggled to find consistent success, contributing to their eventual defeat.