Ole Miss Playoff Hopes Clash with Mississippi State’s Bowl Dreams in 122nd Egg Bowl

The 122nd edition of the Egg Bowl kicks off Friday, November 28, at Davis Wade Stadium in Starkville. The No. 7 ranked Ole Miss Rebels face the Mississippi State Bulldogs in a high-stakes regular-season finale. This historic rivalry game carries immense postseason implications for both teams.

For Ole Miss, a victory secures a coveted spot in the College Football Playoff. For Mississippi State, a win is the only path to bowl eligibility. The noon ET matchup promises intense drama and a charged atmosphere.

Playoff Pathways and Desperation on the Field

Ole Miss enters the game with a 10-1 record and a No. 7 ranking in the latest CFP poll. According to ESPN analytics, a win gives the Rebels a 99% chance of making the playoff. A loss, however, would drop those odds to just 41%, leaving their championship hopes in serious jeopardy.

Mississippi State sits at 5-6 and needs a sixth win to become bowl-eligible. The Bulldogs’ season hinges on this single game. This desperation makes them a dangerous opponent, especially playing at home in a hostile environment for their rivals.

A Historic Rivalry with Modern Consequences

The Egg Bowl is one of college football’s oldest and most bitter rivalries. Ole Miss leads the all-time series 60-30-5. The Rebels have won the last two meetings, but history shows upsets are always possible when state pride is on the line.

Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin has a strong record in this game. His offensive scheme will test a Mississippi State defense that has struggled at times this season. The Bulldogs will need to create turnovers and control the clock to have a chance.

Key Matchup Comparison

Ole Miss Offense vs. Mississippi State Defense: The Rebels’ high-powered attack, averaging over 35 points per game, faces a Bulldog unit allowing nearly 28 points per contest. This mismatch is the game’s central storyline.

Quarterback Experience: Ole Miss is led by a veteran quarterback in his final regular-season game. Mississippi State’s quarterback has shown flashes but faces the biggest test of his career against a relentless Rebel pass rush.

The final whistle of the 2025 Egg Bowl will either crown Ole Miss as a playoff team or immortalize Mississippi State for a season-saving upset. All the pressure and passion of this historic feud culminates in one Friday afternoon showdown.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What are the stakes for Ole Miss in the Egg Bowl?

Ole Miss must win to guarantee a spot in the College Football Playoff. A loss would dramatically reduce their chances and could end their national championship aspirations for this season.

What does Mississippi State need from this game?

Mississippi State needs a victory to achieve a 6-6 record and become eligible for a postseason bowl game. A loss ends their season immediately.

Where is the 2025 Egg Bowl being played?

The game is at Davis Wade Stadium on the campus of Mississippi State University in Starkville. This gives the Bulldogs the home-field advantage.

Who is favored to win the Egg Bowl?

Ole Miss is a 7-point favorite according to most major sportsbooks. Their higher ranking and superior record make them the clear favorite on paper.

How can I watch the Egg Bowl?

The game will be broadcast nationally on CBS at noon Eastern Time. It will also be available for streaming on Paramount+ and the CBS Sports app.