LEXINGTON, Ky. – Mississippi State (2-5, 1-3 SEC) fell to Kentucky (4-3, 3-2) 40-38 in an action-packed offensive affair. The Bulldogs and Wildcats traded scores back and forth for the majority of the game, but a 51-yard field goal by UK as time expired sealed the victory for the home team.
While State was particularly successful on the ground, it had some big highlights through the air as well, as senior wide receiver Fred Ross broke the record for most receptions in MSU history, finishing the night with a total of 166, passing David Smith’s 162 receptions. Ross also passed 2,000 yards total for his career as he caught five passes for 50 yards and a touchdown.
Meanwhile, MSU’s rushing game was strong as the Bulldogs averaged over seven yards per carry, led by sophomore quarterback Nick Fitzgerald’s 107 rushing yards. For the second game in a row, Fitzgerald ran for two touchdowns. He also completed 13-of-21 passes for 81 yards, one touchdown and an interception.
MSU had big plays on the defensive side as well, led by an 81-yard fumble recovery return for a touchdown by sophomore safety Mark McLaurin. Linebackers Gerri Green and DeAndre tied for the MSU lead with eight tackles apiece.
State returns to Davis Wade Stadium next Saturday to host Samford for Homecoming 2016. The game will kickoff at 2:30 p.m. CT on the SEC Network.
