Bulldogs Nationally Ranked Ahead of SEC Play
September 17, 2024 | Soccer
STARKVILLE – As Mississippi State soccer gears up for the start of SEC play on Thursday, the Bulldogs have solidified their place among the nation's top teams during the nonconference slate.
State checks in at No. 24 in the latest United Soccer Coaches Poll and No. 22 in the TopDrawerSoccer rankings, highlighting the program's continued rise under head coach James Armstrong. In addition to their national recognition, the Bulldogs hold a solid No. 33 position in the first RPI rankings of the 2024 season, a testament to their strong early-season performances.
With a 6-1-0 record, the Bulldogs now turn their attention to the highly anticipated start of SEC competition. First up is a trip to Norman for a Thursday night clash against Oklahoma. The match marks State's SEC opener and provides the Bulldogs an opportunity to start conference play with a brand new opponent.Â
The Dawgs welcome No. 11/4 Texas to Starkville for the very first time in program history on Sunday for a ranked showdown under the lights. The marquee matchup is set for 6:30 p.m. CT at the MSU Soccer Field, and will be one of the most anticipated fixtures of the year in StarkVegas. The Longhorns, currently ranked No. 11 in the United Soccer Coaches Poll and No. 4 in TopDrawerSoccer, will provide a stern test for Mississippi State as they look to continue their unbeaten streak at home, which going back to 2023, currently stands at eight matches.
Mississippi State's early-season form has been bolstered by a balanced attack and a rock-solid defense. Nine different Bulldogs have found the back of the net so far this season, and senior goalkeeper Maddy Anderson continues to anchor a defense that has allowed only two goals through the first eight matches. Heading into these critical matchups, the Bulldogs will lean on their depth and experience to navigate the demands of SEC competition.
The stakes are high as State begins the most challenging stretch of the season and need you to be the difference when the Bulldogs return home Sunday.
