Mississippi State Gets Safety Isaac Smith Back for Egg Bowl Showdown

Mississippi State is set to face in-state rival Ole Miss in one of college football’s most intense rivalry games, the Egg Bowl, and the Bulldogs will regain a key contributor on defense. Isaac Smith, who missed last week due to a lower-body injury, is expected to suit up, giving the team a significant lift ahead of the high-stakes matchup.

Smith, a second-team All-SEC selection last year, led the conference in tackles and has been a cornerstone of Mississippi State’s defensive unit. His presence will be vital against a high-powered Ole Miss offense and could impact the game’s flow in crucial moments.

The Bulldogs have been navigating injuries throughout the season, with Smith missing two previous games, including last week against Missouri and an earlier matchup versus Texas A&M. His return marks a critical step in shoring up Mississippi State’s defensive backfield.

As attention turns to the Egg Bowl, both teams are aware of the stakes. While Mississippi State focuses on leveraging Smith’s skills, Ole Miss will have eyes on head coach Lane Kiffin, who could announce his future plans after the game, adding another layer of intrigue to the rivalry showdown.

1. Isaac Smith’s Impact on Mississippi State

Isaac Smith has been a disruptive force in the Bulldogs’ secondary throughout the season. In nine games, he has accumulated 51 tackles, one sack, one interception, and three pass breakups, showcasing his versatility and playmaking ability. His leadership and on-field awareness make him a central piece of Mississippi State’s defensive scheme. Smith’s return allows the Bulldogs to field a more complete unit, particularly in pass coverage and run support. Having missed games against Georgia, Texas A&M, and Missouri, Smith’s availability had been uncertain, with coaches listing him as questionable. His return signals confidence in his recovery and readiness to compete at full strength. For the Bulldogs, Smith is not just a defensive playmaker but also a stabilizing presence on the field, one who can make key tackles, force turnovers, and inspire teammates in critical moments.

2. Mississippi State’s Lineup and Challenges

While Smith returns, Mississippi State will be without running back Davon Booth for the first half due to a disciplinary matter. Booth has been a productive force in the backfield, compiling 547 rushing yards and seven touchdowns this season. The combination of Smith’s defensive presence and Booth’s absence creates an interesting dynamic for the Bulldogs. The team will need to adjust its offensive strategy while ensuring the defense remains stout against Ole Miss’ aggressive attack. Mississippi State’s coaching staff has emphasized the importance of staying disciplined and focused, particularly given the high stakes of the rivalry game. Any misstep could shift momentum in a contest where every play carries weight. The return of Smith, however, should help mitigate some concerns, especially in containing Ole Miss’ versatile playmakers and disrupting the timing of their offense.

3. Egg Bowl Stakes and Kiffin Watch

The Egg Bowl always carries heightened intensity, but this year’s matchup is amplified by both team and individual storylines. Mississippi State aims to leverage Smith’s return to make a statement against the top-10 Rebels. Meanwhile, Ole Miss enters the contest under the leadership of head coach Lane Kiffin, whose future remains the subject of speculation. Fans and media will closely monitor the game for any signals regarding his next destination, adding off-field intrigue to the rivalry clash. Both teams understand the importance of controlling early momentum. With Smith back in the lineup, the Bulldogs hope to set the tone defensively and keep the Rebels’ high-powered offense in check. Ultimately, the Egg Bowl represents more than just a rivalry—it’s a stage for Mississippi State to show resilience, for Smith to make an immediate impact upon his return, and for fans to witness a marquee SEC showdown.