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Why the spring game has value for Mississippi State football's Jeff Lebby

story April 18, 2024
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STARKVILLE – The hiring of Jeff Lebby was about more than just a new coach for Mississippi State football. His arrival, complemented by his track record of explosive offensive play, provided an opportunity to overhaul the perception of the program.

Blue-necked. Stubborn.

These comments have accompanied MSU for years, dating back to former coach Zach Arnett's failed one-year tenure. While these are worthwhile traits for a team, especially on defense, the signing of Lebby offered a chance for something new.

Show time. Dime time. Swag is state.

These are the new phrases that have become marketing tools under the new regime in Starkville. Saturday's spring game (1 p.m., SEC Network+) offers the first opportunity to show what's being sold.

Lebby's first spring game has a meaning that goes beyond football.

“I want to show the fans that we’re going to play fast,” Lebby said Thursday. “We will be fearless. We will be physical in everything we do. I want to bring a product to market that people will, in turn, be excited about.”

The spring game will be about offense and defense. A scoring structure is introduced where both sides of the ball can score points.

While the defense has been praised by coaches and players throughout the spring, Lebby's tenure will be measured by what is accomplished on offense. Nearly a decade has passed since Mississippi State had a top-five offense in the SEC.

This slide will likely need to be ended during Lebby's term for it to be a success. Showing the ability to implement its system early would be a promising sign.

“How we train, how we play, how we do what we do, that’s going to be a big part of what defines us,” Lebby said.

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In terms of competition, particularly in position groups where there are no clear starters, Lebby doesn't think Saturday will be any different than spring training. The Bulldogs have played closed duels, so a single spring game won't decide everything.

However, there is one aspect of spring games that adds an element that cannot be simulated in practice.

Mississippi State won't have 70,000 fans at Davis Wade Stadium like Alabama had at its spring game last week. But there will be a crowd watching. Before the game there will be the experience of preparing for a competition. Every piece is broadcast by television cameras.

This pressure can often separate a good practice player from a strong in-game player. With exit meetings approaching and the spring transfer portal window open, there is a lot to do in MSU's spring game.

“It’s a good run for us – for all of us,” Lebby said.

Stefan Krajisnik is the Mississippi State beat writer for the Clarion Ledger. Contact him at [email protected] or follow him on the X Platform, formerly known as Twitter. @skrajisnik3.

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