The Kentucky Wildcats are heading to Starkville for a high-stakes SEC battle against the No. 14 Mississippi State Bulldogs. With a 12-3 overall record but still searching for their first true road win, Kentucky faces a daunting challenge against a 14-2 Mississippi State squad that excels on both ends of the floor. The game is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing matchups of the day, and experts are weighing in with their predictions on the game.
Expert Predictions for Kentucky vs. Mississippi State
Kentucky Sports Radio (KSR) analysts are divided on the outcome:
- Nick Roush: Kentucky 88, Mississippi State 86
- Tyler Thompson: Mississippi State 82, Kentucky 78
- Adam Luckett: Kentucky 77, Mississippi State 75
- Drew Franklin: Mississippi State 82, Kentucky 76
- Jack Pilgrim: Kentucky 80, Mississippi State 79
- Zack Geoghegan: Kentucky 79, Mississippi State 76
CBS Sports Predictions
CBS analysts acknowledge the challenge but lean slightly toward Kentucky's elite offense under first-year head coach Mark Pope to cover though most think the Bulldogs will win:
- Gary Parrish: Mississippi State
- Matt Norlander: Kentucky
- Kyle Boone: Mississippi State
- David Cobb: Mississippi State
- Cameron Salerno: Mississippi State
- Jerry Palm: Kentucky
- Isaac Trotter: Mississippi State
Analytics and Projections
KenPom and Bart Torvik project a close game, but both favor Mississippi State:
- KenPom: Mississippi State 84, Kentucky 78
- Bart Torvik: Mississippi State 85, Kentucky 80
ESPN’s Basketball Power Index (BPI) gives Mississippi State a 63.3% chance to win, favoring the Bulldogs by 3.4 points.
- WBN: Mississippi State 85, Kentucky 67
Game Analysis
Mississippi State boasts one of the best defenses in the country, allowing just 66.5 points per game, while Kentucky’s offense is third in the nation at 88.8 points per game. This clash of styles makes for a fascinating matchup, with the Wildcats looking to improve their road performance and the Bulldogs seeking to protect their home court.
The key to Kentucky’s success will be their ability to maintain their offensive efficiency, especially from three-point range. Mississippi State will aim to leverage their rebounding edge and defensive prowess to stifle Kentucky’s scoring opportunities; just like in each of Kentucky's losses this year. Can the Cats finally solve the puzzle?