Texas A&M Football: Too early 2018 game-by-game predictions
By Jeff Shull
![(Photo by Joe Scarnici/Getty Images) (Photo by Joe Scarnici/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/a3b2578f10fcaafd2b29292e577f3e6ed9e989fc6e69096197e413e021ff9713.jpg)
@ Mississippi State Bulldogs — October 27
Mississippi State has the combination of returning talent and a fiery, young offensive minded head coach that could help them sneak into the college football playoff picture this season. Led by returning redshirt senior quarterback Nick Fitzgerald, along with a host of skill position weapons and a good defense, the Bulldogs could replicate their success from the 2014 season.
These two teams are pretty close talent wise, but the fact that Mississippi State has owned Texas A&M over the last couple of years, plus this game being at their house, pushes them over the edge. One factor that could flip this game in A&M’s favor is having a bye week leading into this contest. Also, the Bulldogs play LSU the week before and Alabama two weeks after.
Mississippi State returns as many as 18 starters from a team that went 9-4 a year ago, including a bowl win with their backup quarterback. Fitzgerald should be in the early conversation for the Heisman Trophy; his ability to make plays with his feet make him a no-brainer candidate for the award. Fitzgerald has rushed for 2,359 yards and 30 touchdowns over the last two seasons.
Prediction: Bulldogs 27 – Aggies 24
Overall record: 7-2