Mississippi State tips off its most anticipated season in years Friday night, as the Bulldogs welcome Austin Peay to the Humphrey Coliseum. With a team that’s ranked in practically every top 25, Coach Ben Howland knows all eyes are on him and his squad in what should mark the team’s return to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2009. Speaking to Coach Howland on Wednesday, he expects Austin Peay to provide a solid challenge for his team in the opener, which marks the beginning of a five games in thirteen days stretch.
Speaking with junior guard Tyson Carter, he plans to bring big things this season when he is called upon from the bench. Carter says he’s developed more of an attacking mindset, and doesn’t plan to settle for so many long distance shots this season.
There’s no question the expectations are high this season in Starkville, and they should be. This is easily Ben Howland’s deepest and most talented team. It will be interesting to see what kind of start the Bulldogs can get off to against a more difficult schedule, and if the Bulldog fanbase will return to The Hump this year if the team lives up to the hype.
