'That’s What We Do Over Here'
September 10, 2024 | Football
After his Bulldog debut, Kelly Akharaiyi is excited for more.
STARKVILLE – It had been 287 days since Kelly Akharaiyi last caught a football in game action.
Following a breakout 2023 campaign at UTEP, the transfer receiver finally had his first moment as a Mississippi State Bulldog with his 18-yard snag last Saturday at Arizona State that followed an early-season ailment that'd held the talented pass catcher out.
It was a long road home for Akharaiyi, but it didn't faze him.
"There isn't any rust," the senior said. "It was just one of those things where you've got to take care of your body, being in the training room and preparing like a pro, but there's no rust. Go out there and make plays. That's what we do over here."
Akharaiyi was one of college football's most prolific receivers last season, ranking third nationally in yards per reception. He caught 48 passes in 2023 for over 1,000 yards and seven touchdowns. He racked up over 100 receiving yards in six different games, including a 223-yard showing in a victory over FIU.
Despite not finding the field in week one against Eastern Kentucky, he was the ultimate hype man on the sidelines.
"Obviously, I want to play, but my brothers are having fun and making plays, so that's gonna turn me up," Akharaiyi said. "It was great watching them do what they do and take care of business."
He had plenty to be excited about in the season opener, as seven of his teammates caught passes. The Bulldog receivers shared the wealth, and Akharaiyi knew his patience would pay off.
"With Lebby's offense, everybody's gonna eat," he said. "Everybody's gonna get fed. I don't have to worry. I'm not selfish. My brothers are making plays and having fun. I'm gonna have fun with them."
The senior transfer took it easy against Arizona State with his initial Bulldog catch that ignited State's first touchdown drive of the game. It was a small dose of his potential, but it was an important opening step.
"It was good, just like a little taste," Akharaiyi said. "In warmups, we were trying to gauge how I felt, and I told them I felt great. They told me they were gonna let me ease back into it, and then getting that ball – I play receiver, I always want that ball – so it felt good."
This Saturday against Toledo, Akharaiyi will have his first opportunity to suit up and play under the lights at Davis Wade Stadium. It has been a persistent beginning to his journey in Maroon and White, and he will relish the opportunity.
"I'm very excited," Akharaiyi said. "When we were walking out for the first game, I was like, 'Man, I can't wait to be back.' That atmosphere feels so crazy. Putting on my pads and playing right by my teammates, it's gonna feel great."
