LEXINGTON, Kentucky — Penalties got No. 14 Mississippi State in a bind, a lack of a rushing attack kept it there and Kentucky’s pass rush put the Bulldogs away.
MSU’s first loss under Joe Moorhead came without a shadow of a doubt, as Kentucky added to its historic 4-0 start with a 28-7 upset win over the Bulldogs (3-1). The loss comes one week before MSU hosts the return of former coach Dan Mullen and his Florida Gators (3-1).
Early, the issue was offensive penalties. An unsportsmanlike conduct penalty negated momentum on the first drive and a false start negated a nine-yard gain on first down in the second possession; it scored on the third possession through two penalties, but a false start set back its fifth possession.
The rushing attack sputtered throughout the game, ending with 28 carries for 56 yards. Moorhead said after the game it was a product of being in long-yardage situations relative to down and distance, with penalties being a big factor in that.
Kentucky was credited with four quarterback hurries and three sacks. The sacks and the penalties continually left MSU in a bad position: its average yards to gain on third down was 9.2.
MSU wide receiver Osirus Mitchell had a standout performance, catching six passes for 65 yards.
Follow Dispatch sports writer Brett Hudson on Twitter @Brett_Hudson
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