Mississippi State vs. Ole Miss Preview and Prediction

The Mississippi State Bulldogs face the Ole Miss Rebels in a rivalry that contains plenty of intrigue despite the slight drop-off leading into this game.

Both teams were ranked within the top-5 at one point this season, but each have suffered a loss in the weeks leading up to this game, most recently with Ole Miss' 30-0 trouncing by Arkansas.

Records:

Mississippi State: 10-1 (6-1 SEC)

Ole Miss: 8-3 (4-3 SEC)

Last Meeting: Mississippi State won 17-10 in 2013

Mississippi State Outlook: The Bulldogs are still in the playoff picture despite a tough loss to Alabama, as they hold onto just one loss this year.

Quarterback Dak Prescott was not great against the Tide, but he remains one of the top players in the nation with 31 combined touchdowns and over 3,300 total yards.

A win at Ole Miss likely seals Mississippi State's fate as one of the four playoff teams.

Ole Miss Outlook: The Rebels had an outside chance at making a late run at a playoff spot if they could knock off the Bulldogs in this game. Instead, they fell flat against Arkansas, making an upset a nice luxury rather than a season-propelling win.

Most concerning for the Rebels is that they have lost three of their previous four games with their only win coming against Presbyterian during that span.

Quarterback Bo Wallace had an outside shot at over 3,000 yards this year, but threw just 235 against Arkansas. He still has 2,554 yards and 22 touchdowns on the year.

What to watch for: Which team will come out motivated? Both squads have suffered disappointing losses, although the Bulldogs still have a chance to salvage their playoff hopes.

The rivalry itself will surely ignite some spark, but will the Rebels have what it takes to compete now that their playoff hopes were crushed last week?

Prediction:

Mississippi State - 24, Ole Miss - 16

The Bulldogs need this win the most, but don't expect for the Rebels to just let it happen, despite their recent letdown. The Ole Miss defense has what it takes to slow down Prescott, much like Alabama did a few weeks ago.