Opinion
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Can the Bulldogs Outmaneuver the Gamecocks at Colonial Life Arena?

As the Mississippi State Bulldogs prepare to face off against the South Carolina Gamecocks, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be a thrilling encounter at Colonial Life Arena. The Bulldogs have been on a hot streak, and their recent performances suggest they could continue their dominance on January 6th.


Jan 31, 2023; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs guard Dashawn Davis (10) is fouled by South Carolina Gamecocks guard Zachary Davis (12) in the second half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back at their last game on December 31st against Bethune-Cookman Wildcats, MSST showcased an impressive offensive display, racking up 85 points. Their shooting was particularly noteworthy; they hit 53 percent from the field and an exceptional 44 percent from beyond the arc. With such accuracy, it's clear that MSST has shooters who can cause serious problems for any defense.


Defensively, MSST also stood out with a total of five blocks and fifteen steals in that game. This defensive prowess has been a consistent theme throughout their season. For instance, in another recent matchup against North Texas Mean Green on December 17th, they managed eight steals and five blocks as well—numbers that reflect a team comfortable applying pressure and creating turnovers.


Jan 31, 2023; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Jacobi Wright (1) shoots against the Mississippi State Bulldogs in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-USA TODAY Sports

The Bulldogs' ability to convert opportunities into points is another aspect of their game that cannot be overlooked. In all three previous games analyzed (against Bethune-Cookman Wildcats, Rutgers Scarlet Knights on December 23rd, and North Texas Mean Green), MSST scored double-digit points off turnovers—a testament to their quick transition play and ability to punish teams for their mistakes.


However, it would be unwise to underestimate the South Carolina Gamecocks playing at home. They will undoubtedly look to leverage home-court advantage come game day. The key battle will likely be in controlling the paint where both teams have shown strength; however, with MSST's higher two-point shooting percentage recently (62 percent against Bethune-Cookman), they might just have the edge needed to secure victory.


Jan 31, 2023; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks forward Hayden Brown (10) shoots against the Mississippi State Bulldogs in the first half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-USA TODAY Sports

In conclusion, if Mississippi State continues its trend of high-percentage shooting while maintaining its defensive intensity leading to turnovers and fast-break points—they should emerge victorious over South Carolina Gamecocks in this upcoming contest.


Fans eager not to miss any action should tune into CBS for national coverage of this exciting matchup scheduled for January 6th at 11:00 AM CT at Colonial Life Arena in Columbia SC.

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