NCAA Football Mississippi State Bulldogs SEC Preview 2008: last season the Mississippi State Bulldogs were anemic on offensive end. Yet somehow, they managed to finish the season with an 8-5 (4-4) mark, and winning the Liberty Bowl against UCF by a score of 10-3.
This upcoming season, head coach Sylvester Croom will have to do something about an offense that only averaged 300 total yards per game last season. BetUS.com: The Mississippi State Bulldog’s NCAA Football Betting odds to win the SEC in 2008 are +3000. 
For offensive coordinator, Woddy McCorvey, here are the key returning players which will improve their 2008 production: RB Anthony Dixon’s 1,066 yards (rushing), QB Wesley Carroll’s 1,392 yards (passing), and WR Jamayel Smith’s 510 receiving yards.
The Bulldog’s strength lies without question on the defensive end. Last season, they were very strong, and they expect more of the same this upcoming season as most of their starters will be returning.
Expect them to be one of the best, especially their pass defense, which was ranked among the best in the nation.
For defensive coordinator, Charlie Harbison, his key returning players this season will be: LB Jamar Chaney’s 89 tackles, DE Jimmie Holmes’ 2.0 sacks, and S Derek Pegues’ 5 INTs.
Mississippi State’s weakness is no secret; it’s their offense. However, after Carroll did an admirable job last season, plus Dixon’s production and experience, they can be a much-improved offensive team.
What the offense must really focus on is turnovers. When a team posses the type of defense Mississippi State does, the offensive side of the ball doesn't need to be spectacular, just solid.
