Mississippi State will likely be without quarterback Kamario Taylor for Saturday’s SEC showdown against LSU due to a turf toe injury, dealing a significant blow to the Bulldogs’ offense. Taylor, a sophomore who has become a Heisman Trophy candidate, has thrown for 1,450 yards and 159 rushing yards with 18 total touchdowns through five games this season.
According to reports from On3, Taylor has been dealing with the injury since Mississippi State’s game against Missouri and played through it during the 56-23 loss to Alabama. He finished that game on the sideline wearing a boot on his right foot, and despite additional recovery time during the bye week, remained limited in practice leading up to the LSU matchup.
True Freshman Set to Make First Start
With Taylor expected to miss the game, Mississippi State is preparing to turn to true freshman Parker “Billy” Puckett as the starting quarterback. Puckett entered the Alabama game late and completed three of six passes for 26 yards, showing some promise in limited action but facing a much tougher test against an LSU defense eager to capitalize on the quarterback change.
LSU enters the game at 4-2 following a road loss to Kentucky, while Mississippi State sits at 4-1 overall. Tigers defensive coordinator Blake Baker will have the opportunity to pressure the young quarterback and force him into difficult decisions. The Bulldogs may need to simplify their offensive scheme, establish the running game, and provide additional protection for Puckett against an LSU defense known for creating pressure and disrupting passing plays.
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Mississippi State’s offensive success this season has relied heavily on Taylor’s dual-threat capabilities, stretching the field with his arm while creating opportunities with his legs. Without that dynamic presence, the Bulldogs will need other players to step up. Running back Fluff Bothwell is also listed as questionable on the SEC availability report, having rushed for 403 yards and three touchdowns on 74 carries this season.
Defensive Strategy Expected to Target Quarterback Weakness
Regardless of who starts at quarterback, LSU’s defensive approach will likely focus on generating pressure and disrupting Mississippi State’s timing. Taylor has been most dangerous when given time to let routes develop and attack defenses downfield, making pressure a key factor in limiting those opportunities and increasing the likelihood of mistakes.
Against Puckett specifically, LSU could be even more aggressive, testing the freshman’s ability to recognize defensive looks and make quick decisions under pressure. For Mississippi State, the challenge becomes finding ways to protect their quarterback, sustain drives, and prevent LSU from controlling the tempo and outcome of the game. The loss of Taylor represents one of the most significant injuries in the SEC this season, fundamentally altering the Bulldogs’ offensive identity heading into a key conference matchup.
Injury Concerns Extend to Running Game
Fluff Bothwell has rushed for 403 yards and three touchdowns on 74 carries this season, making him one of Mississippi State’s most reliable offensive weapons alongside Taylor. His availability remains uncertain after being listed as questionable on the SEC availability report, adding another layer of concern for the Bulldogs’ rushing attack.
