Athens, GA—In a physical matchup, Carson Beck showcased his poise as No. 5 Georgia weathered a second-half surge from heavy underdog Mississippi State, securing a 41-31 victory on Saturday.
Beck delivered a career-high performance, throwing for 459 yards and three touchdowns. “He’s experienced,” said Georgia coach Kirby Smart. “When the game gets tight, he stays cool and doesn’t panic.”
Georgia (5-1, 3-1 Southeastern Conference) appeared to have one eye on next week’s showdown with No. 1 Texas at times but still managed to extend its home winning streak to 28 games. The Bulldogs initially led 34-10 early in the second half, but freshman quarterback Michael Van Buren Jr. spearheaded a comeback for the State Bulldogs (1-5, 0-3), leading them to two consecutive touchdowns. Van Buren’s strong performance saw Mississippi State finish the game with a 21-7 run, although it wasn’t enough to end their five-game losing streak.
“Our guys responded well,” said Mississippi State coach Jeff Lebby. “I hate that we’re sitting here disappointed and frustrated with our record, but I’m proud of how hard our players are fighting for each other.”
Despite throwing two interceptions, including one on Georgia’s second play that set up a field goal for Mississippi State, Beck remained unfazed. “It is what it is,” he said. “You just keep playing and find your rhythm.”
With Georgia ahead 34-24, Beck orchestrated a crucial 16-play touchdown drive to secure the win. On fourth down at the MSU 1-yard line, Trevor Etienne was pushed across the goal line by Georgia’s offensive line.
Van Buren completed 20 of 37 passes for 306 yards and three touchdowns, including scoring throws of 24 and 35 yards to Kelly Akharaiyi, as well as one interception. His 35-yard touchdown pass with 1:47 left in the game cut Georgia’s lead to 10 points.
Beck matched Georgia’s record by completing 36 passes on 48 attempts. He ended the first half strong, throwing a 31-yard touchdown pass to Dillon Bell, whose left toe tap in the back of the end zone counted, followed by a 1-yard scoring pass to tight end Lawson Luckie. This helped Georgia establish a 27-10 halftime advantage.
The Bulldogs began the second half with a bang, as Beck connected with Arian Smith for a 42-yard touchdown pass.
Poll Implications:
Georgia entered the game favored by 33.5 points and might face a drop from its No. 5 spot in the upcoming AP Top 25 rankings.
The Takeaway:
Mississippi State: The Bulldogs’ defense struggled against Georgia’s potent passing attack, ranking last in the SEC in scoring defense. Coming into the game, they were allowing an average of 31.6 points per game, which Georgia surpassed on a three-play drive to start the second half. Mississippi State allowed 605 yards, a season high for Georgia.
Up Next:
Mississippi State: Returns home to play No. 15 Texas A&M on Saturday.
Georgia: Plays at No. 1 Texas in what could be a top-five classic on Saturday.
