Texas 31, Mississippi State 3: Five observations and Sunday chat

The No. 11 Texas Longhorns finished their season sweep in Mississippi with a 31-3 win over Mississippi State, a game that turned difficult early for the Bulldogs. Mississippi State entered already dealing with injuries, including the absence of star quarterback Kamario Taylor. It got worse when running back Fluff Bothwell left the second half. The loss continued a slide for Jeff Lebby’s team: after starting 4-0, Mississippi State has dropped four straight and still has three SEC games remaining, needing at least one victory to keep hopes for a bowl. The article also points to Texas covering a sizable spread, despite issues in the run game (only 60 rushing yards on 32 carries) and a turnover tied to Arch Manning holding the ball too long.