Power ranking the SEC after Media Days: #15 Mississippi State
I have demoted Jeff Lebby's Bulldogs a full spot since earlier in the spring. Too harsh? Mayhap. However, the more I think about it, the more I am skeptical of the idea that Blake Shapen is the guy to turn State back into the thorn in the conference's side that they have been over the last few years, even in an offensive system that will be a pain to deal with.
Lebby does bring some interesting offense to Starkville, but a tough schedule makes it less than likely that he will be able to show a whole lot of progress in year one. Of course, Zach Arnett didn't exactly leave him a lot to work with, so he'll have a bit of an out in year one.
I think qualifying for a bowl game, considering the schedule that State has, would be considered a success. They should have ample opportunity to pull a big time upset with some of the teams here on their docket. I know that's quite the glass half full way of looking at things, but what are you going to do? It could be a lean fall for Mississippi State, unless someone emerges unexpectedly.