Video: #16 Bulldogs Escape Upset-Minded UMass

STARKVILLE, Miss. (WCBI) — #16 Mississippi State escapes with a home win over the upset-minded UMass Minutemen, 34-23.

The Bulldogs struggled for more of the first half, trailing 20-13 at halftime. Redshirt junior quarterback Nick Fitzgerald threw two interceptions in the first thirty minutes, UMass’ Isiah Rodgers returning one for a touchdown.

Fitzgerald settled in the beginning of the second half, leading back-to-back scoring drives that were capped off by Fitzgerald rushing touchdowns. The second-year starter finished throwing 14/25 for 139 yards with two interceptions, while adding 135 rushing yards and two touchdowns.

The difference for the Bulldogs came in the third quarter, leading 27-23, when sophomore wide receiver Deddrick Thomas returned a punt 83 yards for a touchdown, sealing the game for Mississippi State.

The Bulldogs will prepare for a home test against #2 Alabama on Saturday, November 11th.