GAINESVILLE, fla. – A late turnover extinguished a potential game-winning drive as Mississippi State fell to Florida 23-21 on Saturday. the Bulldogs battled back from an early deficit but ultimately couldn’t overcome the Gators in a tightly contested SEC matchup.
Mississippi State struck first with a touchdown run by quarterback Kamario Taylor, giving State a 7-0 lead. florida responded with a field goal, narrowing the gap to 7-3 with 8:55 remaining in the first quarter. The Gators then took a 10-7 advantage on a 19-yard rushing touchdown early in the second quarter.
MSU safety Brylan Lanier kept the Bulldogs within striking distance, recording two interceptions – one on a deep ball later in the second quarter – but the offense couldn’t capitalize on the turnovers. Florida added two field goals,one late in the second and another in the fourth,to extend their lead to 13-7 at halftime and then 20-7 with 13:42 left in the game.
running back Davon Booth sparked a State comeback, scoring a two-yard touchdown to make it 20-14.Florida answered with a field goal, pushing the lead to 23-14. Booth found the endzone again with 2:32 remaining, bringing the score to 23-21. A crucial sack forced a Florida punt, giving State possession at their own 28-yard line with 1:39 left and one timeout.
However, a costly turnover ended the Bulldogs’ hopes.
Booth led the MSU offense with 105 rushing yards and two touchdowns, stepping up in the absence of Fluff Bothwell. Quarterback Shapen finished with 324 total yards passing, connecting with receivers Brenen Thompson and Evans for a combined 262 receiving yards. Lanier anchored the defense with eight tackles and two interceptions.
Mississippi State (4-4) returns home for its homecoming game against Texas on Saturday, Oct. 25, at Davis Wade Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for either 2:30 or 3:15 p.m. CT and will be televised on SEC Network or ESPN.
