Why Mississippi State football's late road experience can lead to victory at LSU

TUCSON, Ariz. — It was another late night for Mississippi State football.

After a Week 1 weather delay, MSU's home opener against Memphis extended into Sunday. After a late kickoff in Week 2, the same occurred at Arizona (1-1).

The common result: wins.

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The Bulldogs (2-0) open SEC play at LSU on Saturday (5 p.m., ESPN), the third straight season MSU has opened conference play against the Tigers.

Will MSU's experience through two games give the Bulldogs an edge? We look to provide some answers.

How does MSU feel heading into Death Valley?

Mississippi State wishes it could have back last season's loss to LSU. But after winning in Baton Rouge in 2020, this MSU roster knows it can compete with the Tigers.

Having played night games and a road game this season only adds to MSU's confidence entering that environment.

"Being on the road will just help us better ourselves," MSU linebacker Nathaniel Watson said.

Mississippi State coach Mike Leach and many of his players have found flaws in its first two wins this season, and deservedly so. The Bulldogs haven't played clean football but have walked out victorious, which Watson said reminds MSU of its potential.

LSU will be a quality test.

Any update on Jaden Crumedy?

Short answer: no. Mississippi State hasn't provided any update on the graduate defensive lineman.

Crumedy was at Davis Wade Stadium last week wearing a cast on his left arm. He hasn't practiced since the first week of preseason camp.

He didn't travel with MSU to Arizona, which is a concerning sign.

However, when asked about Crumedy entering Week 1, Leach said he expects him to have a great season. So there is hope he can still take the field.

Is Ke'Travion Hargrove with the team?

The former four-star running back entered the transfer portal before removing his name a few hours later, per an On3 Sports report Friday.

His Mississippi State bio was taken down on the MSU athletic website and hasn't returned yet.

He did not travel with Mississippi State to Arizona, which isn't unusual as the fourth running back on the depth chart.

His attendance at MSU's next home game, Sept. 24 vs Bowling Green, will be more telling of his status. Regardless, his snaps will be limited.

Stefan Krajisnik is the Mississippi State beat writer for the Clarion Ledger. Contact him at skrajisnik@gannett.com or follow him on Twitter @skrajisnik3.