Texas A&M Football: Too early 2018 game-by-game predictions

@ 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