Mississippi State Squeaks Into ESPN’s Future Power Rankings

In a sport that often forgets the underdog, Mississippi State is quietly setting the stage for a turnaround. After finishing 2-10 last fall and enduring a dramatic roster overhaul, the Bulldogs have found themselves back in the national conversation, landing at No. 59 in ESPN’s 2025-2026 Future Power Rankings.

Yes, 59 might not sound glamorous. But for Mississippi State, it’s a sign of progress, and proof that under new head coach Jeff Lebby, there’s finally a foundation forming in Starkville.

The ranking takes into account future potential, and MSU’s quarterback situation is a perfect microcosm of the unknown mixed with optimism. Blake Shapen, the Baylor transfer who showed early promise in 2024 before a shoulder injury, is back. His performance, 974 yards and 8 TDs in just four games was enough to keep him in the conversation as a starter.

Even if Shapen is a stopgap, Luke Kromenhoek, a highly rated 2024 recruit who flashed talent at Florida State, is waiting in the wings. The staff also added Kamario Taylor, a top-300 national prospect. There’s uncertainty, sure, but there’s also upside.

After getting bullied up front last season, Mississippi State loaded up on both lines. The Bulldogs hit the portal hard, bringing in high-impact transfers like Red Hibbler (NC State) and Will Whitson (Coastal Carolina) to upgrade the defensive front. On the offensive line, the reunion between Lebby and former Oklahoma OL coach Phil Loadholt could be key. With veterans like Jacoby Jackson and new additions such as Blake Steen (Virginia) and Koby Keenum (Kentucky), the line is no longer a liability, it’s a question mark with upside.

MSU saw over 30 players enter the transfer portal, but most weren’t key contributors. In return, Lebby’s staff aggressively reloaded. Running back Fluff Bothwell (South Alabama) brings explosiveness. Wide receiver Brenen Thompson (Oklahoma) adds SEC-caliber speed. And the defense is still anchored by Isaac Smith, who led the SEC in tackles last year and earned All-SEC second-team honors.

There’s no sugarcoating the struggles, as Mississippi State hit rock bottom last season. But the No. 27 recruiting class for 2025, paired with targeted portal wins and a returning All-SEC core, paints a different picture for what’s ahead.