Mississippi State football's defense has taken a big step forward this season compared to last. They've improved in points allowed per game from 34.1 to 26.3, and they've approved in yards allowed per game from 456.4 to 388.7.
A big reason for that leap has been the play of cornerback Kelley Jones. The redshirt sophomore has seen incredible growth as a player, going from a raw talent still learning to play the position to becoming one of the very best corners in the SEC. He's consistently shut down his side of the field, making life much easier for State DC Coleman Hutzler.