The Tennessee Volunteers enter Week 5 riding high at 3-1 after an explosive offensive showing against UAB. Joey Aguilar has settled in as the team’s new leader under center, Chris Brazzell II is turning heads as one of the best receivers in the country, and the Vols’ confidence is building as they look ahead to a massive SEC showdown with Alabama in mid-October.
But before Tuscaloosa comes Starkville — and that’s where danger lurks. Saturday’s clash with Mississippi State has all the markings of a classic “trap game” for Josh Heupel’s squad.
Mississippi State has been inconsistent this season, but the Bulldogs are dangerous at home. Davis Wade Stadium is one of the loudest environments in college football, cowbells ringing in every corner, creating a true road test atmosphere. Head coach Jeff Lebby is still molding the Bulldogs into his vision, but his fast-paced offensive system can catch defenses off guard.
For Tennessee, the challenge is mental as much as physical. The Vols can’t afford to overlook Mississippi State in anticipation of their high-profile matchup with Alabama. Teams that let their focus drift often find themselves in a fight they never expected.
The key for Tennessee will be discipline. Aguilar must continue protecting the football, while the offensive line needs to limit costly penalties in a hostile setting. Defensively, Tim Banks’ unit cannot afford lapses that allow the Bulldogs to hit big plays. Mississippi State’s offense thrives on rhythm — once they get rolling, it’s tough to stop.
The silver lining for Tennessee is that this is exactly the type of game that builds character. Good teams find ways to win when conditions aren’t perfect, and trap games separate contenders from pretenders. With Brazzell’s hot start, a stable run game, and Aguilar’s poise, Tennessee has the weapons to take care of business if they remain locked in.
Vol Nation knows the stakes. The Vols are hunting for an SEC title push, and dropping one to Mississippi State would derail momentum before the biggest stretch of the season. If Tennessee keeps its focus, avoids the trap, and executes with precision, they can escape Starkville victorious — and set their sights on Alabama with confidence intact.
