The S&P+ projections, which you have to admit have been pretty accurate in their Mizzou pessimism of late, say Mississippi State has about a 76% chance of winning tonight, by an average of about 12 points. So I guess head into this preview knowing that's the baseline.
But by now, we know how the 'likely' result plays out: Mizzou's offense generates minimal opportunities and finishes none in the end zone, the defense has just one or two loose possessions, and that makes the difference in the game. We've seen the rerun a few times now.
So as I walk through the frequently discouraging stats below, let's talk about the positives and best-case scenarios.