Mississippi State Faces Louisiana-Monroe in Season Opener

STARKVILLE — Mississippi State football will kick off its 2026 season at homeagainst Louisiana-Monroe on Sept. 5 at Davis Wade Stadium (6:30 p.m., ESPNU).

Key Changes and Preview

The Bulldogs, under coach Jeff Lebby in his third season following a 5-8 record in 2025, have a new starting quarterback in Kamario Taylor and Zach Arnett as defensive coordinator, replacing the 2023 head coach.

Mississippi State is favored to defeat Louisiana-Monroe. The Warhawks have struggled recently, going 3-9 in 2024 after a 5-7 record in 2024 under coach Bryant Vincent. They were dismantled by Alabama 73-0 last season.

Player Focus

Mississippi State’s offense will rely on quarterback Kamario Taylor and running back Fluff Bothwell. Wide receiver Anthony Evans III is looking to break Brenen Thompson's single-season receiving record. The offensive and defensive lines are key areas for improvement for the Bulldogs.

ULM’s Noah Flemmings (linebacker) and AJ Vinson (offensive tackle) are returning as preseason All-Sun Belt selections. The Warhawks also addressed their kicking woes from last season.

Injury Report

No official injury report is available for the game. Mississippi State’s first injury report is scheduled for Week 3.

Prediction

Mississippi State 41, ULM 7: Taylor connects with Sanfrisco Magee for a touchdown early, Bothwell scores twice, and Will Whitson records 1.5 sacks.