Mississippi State Football Climbs in ESPN FPI Rankings

The rise from last year’s FPI slot is largely tied to a trio of key factors: the return of quarterback Blake Shapen, a top-30 recruiting class, and a calculated blitz through the transfer portal, where the Bulldogs added nine new faces this spring alone.

“Blake’s decision to return after his injury gives them real leadership under center,” said former Mississippi State head coach Jackie Sherrill. “In this league, experience at quarterback is gold.”

The Bulldogs’ 2025 recruiting class ranks 26th nationally, per 247Sports. This is a clear sign that Lebby’s vision is resonating beyond Starkville. Offensively, the team is starting to show flashes of the high-octane attack that made Lebby’s stops at Oklahoma and UCF so dynamic. Young weapons like Gracen Harris and Kolin Wilson are turning heads during off-season workouts.

Still, the road ahead is no easy path.

Mississippi State faces an absolute uphill battle this fall, including showdowns against Georgia, Tennessee, and Texas, all ranked inside the FPI’s Top 15. And of course, there’s the annual Egg Bowl against Ole Miss, who enter the season ranked No. 13.

“What Jeff is building takes time, but the signs are encouraging," Sherrill, stated. "The SEC West isn't forgiving, but neither is standing still. The program is moving forward."

For Bulldog fans, the message is clear: the climb may be steep, but the foundation is solid. Stay locked in. This rebuild is real.