2015 Auburn Football Schedule: Early Predictions

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Dec 31, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs quarterback Dak Prescott (15) throws a pass against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets during the first quarter in the 2014 Orange Bowl at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Returning Starters, Offense: 5
Returning Starters, Defense: 4
Points For: 36.9 PPG (17th nationally)
Passing: 280.7 YPG (23rd nationally)
Rushing: 233.1 YPG (23rd nationally)
Points Against: 21.7 PPG (23rd nationally)

The 2014 season was one of the, if not the, best in Mississippi State football history. The Bulldogs opened the season 9-0 and rose to No. 1 in the nation before stumbling down the stretch to finish 10-3.

Looking ahead to 2015, MSU has the two most important pieces of the puzzle returning in Heisman Trophy candidate quarterback Dak Prescott, who could have left early for the NFL, and head coach Dan Mullen, who brushed off inquiries from other schools looking for a head coach in order to sign an extension to stay in Starkville.

However, MSU must replace 13 starters from last year’s bunch, which is more than any team in the SEC. Mullen was also forced to replace defensive coordinator Geoff Collins, who took the same position at Florida. Manny Diaz is a quality DC, but Collins – as well as a handful of All-SEC caliber defenders – will surely be missed.

Mississippi State is not likely to match the success they had in 2014 next year, though with Prescott and Mullen around they’ll be dangerous in every game. Expect Auburn to pick up a close victory at Jordan-Hare and get a little revenge for last year’s loss.

Next: Game 5: vs. San Jose State

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