Kendel Dolby details Mississippi State’s Auburn adjustments

Mississippi State safety Kendel Dolby said Monday that the Bulldogs must maintain disciplined eyes and trust their assignments against Auburn quarterback Byrum Brown and the Tigers’ tempo offense.

Mississippi State’s defense has steadied after poor performances against Alabama and LSU, with improved defensive-line production over the past three weeks and fewer breakdowns on the back end against Vanderbilt. Big plays remain an issue, however, and Dolby said the defense did not do enough to secure the win.

Rather than blaming an offense that has continued to struggle, Mississippi State’s defenders have focused on their own responsibility to prevent points. The Bulldogs have also dealt with key injuries on both sides of the ball, but Dolby emphasized an approach centered on the next play and next week with three games remaining.

The rotation has created opportunities for younger players. True freshman safety Bralan Womack has received more snaps, while Gus Cordova and Tyshun Willis have taken larger roles along the defensive line. Dolby said those players have responded well while gaining experience they can build upon.

Auburn presents a different challenge Saturday. Brown leads an offense that uses tempo and screens. His athleticism allows him to run through tackles or extend plays to give receivers time to uncover downfield. The Tigers have experienced offensive struggles in their first season under a new head coach, but they also defeated current No. 1 Georgia on the road.

That improvisational style places pressure on Mississippi State’s safeties, a group that has had trouble when mobile quarterbacks extend plays. Dolby said defenders must keep their eyes on their coverage responsibility rather than looking into the backfield unnecessarily.

His prescription was direct: play the assigned job, trust nearby teammates to provide help and avoid trying to do too much. Maintaining coverage assignments once Brown extends a play can help prevent explosive gains.

Why it matters

Mississippi State’s defense has improved up front, but explosive plays remain a concern against a mobile quarterback. The increased rotation is also giving younger defenders meaningful experience with three games remaining.

What to watch next

Mississippi State hosts Auburn on Saturday, when the Bulldogs’ safeties will be tested by Brown’s mobility, the Tigers’ screen game and their tempo.