Memphis defeats Mississippi State

Memphis handed Mississippi State its first loss of the season on Saturday night with a 31-29 victory at the Liberty Bowl.

It was a low scoring affair until the fourth quarter where the teams combined for 29 points.

Memphis opened the scoring with a 40-yard fumble return in the first quarter before Mississippi State fought back to take a 17-7 lead.

That held for awhile before Memphis’ Calvin Austin scored on a screen pass in the fourth quarter and shortly after had a 95-yard punt return for a touchdown.

A couple late touchdowns from the Bulldogs put Mike Leach’s squad in position to tie it with a two point conversion. Mississippi State came up just short, allowing Memphis to hang on for the win.

Will Rogers threw for over 400 yards, but it wasn’t the most efficient line you’ll see, with Rogers throwing 67 passes.

Calvin Austin was the star for Memphis. He had over 100 yards through the air to go along with that 95-yard punt return. Memphis running back Brandon Thomas added 83 yards on the ground.

For Mississippi State, it was Makai Polk who led them in the receiving game with 136 yards and a touchdown. Malik Heath and Jaden Walley also caught touchdowns from Rogers.

Up next for Mississippi State is a noon game at home against LSU.