Mississippi State Opens 2026 Football Season Against ULM
Mississippi State begins its 2026 college football season Saturday night at Davis Wade Stadium, hosting ULM in the season opener. The game is scheduled to start at 6:30 p.m. CT and will be televised on ESPNU.
The Bulldogs, with an 0-0 record, are looking to build on last year’s performances. Mississippi State’s quarterback Kamario Taylor, a highly-rated recruit from Noxubee County High School, started two games last season and earned SEC Freshman of the Week honors twice. The 6-foot-4, 230-pound quarterback rushed and passed for touchdowns in key games, including Ole Miss and Wake Forest.
Taylor, a lifelong Bulldogs fan, aims to follow in the footsteps of his uncle, Omarr Conner, a former Mississippi State quarterback. Conner now serves as offensive coordinator at Hinds Community College. Noxubee County has produced notable NFL players, including Deontae Skinner and Jeffery Simmons.
Defensive standout Kelley Jones, who allowed the fewest receptions among SEC cornerbacks last season, will also feature for the Bulldogs. Wide receiver Anthony Evans III, who finished seventh in school history with 67 catches in 2025, looks to continue his productive streak. Senior safety and linebacker Isaac Smith emphasizes the significance of finishing his career at Mississippi State, calling Starkville home.
Several coaches are beginning their second stints at MSU. Defensive coordinator Zach Arnett, who previously served as head coach in 2023, has returned after coaching at Ole Miss and Florida State. Co-defensive coordinator Matt Brock, also returning, previously coached at Texas Tech, Washington State, and UConn. Offensive line coach Mason Miller, a Starkville native, rejoined after coaching at Baylor and Tarleton State.
Community efforts have been prominent this offseason. Player DJ Chester, on the Wuerffel Trophy Watch List, organized a community service project to build beds for children. Starkville native Ethan Pulliam donated $4,000 for school supplies to local elementary schools, emphasizing giving back to the community.
The Bulldogs will look to start the season strong as they host ULM on Saturday night. Fans can follow updates on MSU football through social media and official channels.
Source: Original Article
