The anticipation is palpable in Starkville, Mississippi, as the Bulldogs gear up for the inaugural game of the Jeff Lebby era at Mississippi State. The excitement builds as they prepare to face Eastern Kentucky on Saturday afternoon at Davis Wade Stadium. Despite the uncertainties, Bulldog fans are excited about the fresh start for Mississippi State Football, a new era unbound by the past, with a rejuvenated staff determined to elevate Mississippi State’s game to a level that fans can proudly rally behind.

One thing is certain: Mississippi State, under Coach Lebby’s unique and unwavering leadership, is committed to delivering an electrifying brand of football this season. The Bulldogs are poised to light up the scoreboard and offer a more exhilarating game this fall. While the season’s outcome remains a mystery, the enthusiasm for the program under Coach Lebby’s distinct leadership is unmistakable. It’s a sentiment that has been absent since Mike Leach’s untimely passing.

There’s a palpable sense of anticipation in the air, something that’s been missing for Mississippi State fans since last season’s wilderness. As they watched Lane Kiffin and his Ole Miss rise, there was a feeling of hopelessness. But this year, something feels different for Mississippi State; there’s hope that hasn’t been there in some time.

There might be flashy wins to accompany the style later. Still, given enough time and patience, Coach Lebby will turn the program around, delivering on his promise of bringing showtime to Starkville as he and his staff work to bring Mississippi State back to competing in the postseason and playing spoiler for many of the top teams in the Southeastern Conference.

Mississippi State will open the season on Saturday evening at 5:00 against Eastern Kentucky. A win would give the Bulldogs their 90th season-opening win, dating back to the 1895 season. As a reminder, the 2024 season will be the 125th season of Mississippi State Football.