FINAL FROM KNOXVILLE: Dylan Sampson Rushes for 149 Yards as the Vols Dominate Mississippi State, 33-14
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Under the lights of Neyland Stadium on a chilly November evening, the Tennessee Volunteers took care of business, cruising to a decisive 33-14 victory over the Mississippi State Bulldogs. Powered by a standout performance from running back Dylan Sampson, the Vols improved their SEC record and solidified their position in the postseason conversation.
Sampson Steals the Show
Sophomore running back Dylan Sampson was the undeniable star of the game, putting on a clinic with 149 rushing yards on 21 carries, including a pivotal 57-yard touchdown run late in the second quarter. Sampson’s ability to break tackles and find gaps in the Bulldogs’ defense electrified the Neyland crowd and set the tone for the Vols’ dominant ground game.
“This team thrives on execution, and tonight it all came together,” said Sampson postgame. “I’ve got to give it up to the offensive line. Those guys made my job easy.”
Efficient Offense Leads the Way
Quarterback Joe Milton III continued his steady leadership under center, throwing for 215 yards and two touchdowns without an interception. Milton connected with wide receiver Squirrel White for a 45-yard score in the first quarter, giving Tennessee an early lead they would never relinquish.
Complementing Sampson’s ground assault was freshman running back Khalifa Keith, who chipped in 62 yards and a touchdown. Altogether, the Vols racked up 228 rushing yards, keeping the Bulldogs’ defense on their heels all night.
“We wanted to establish the run early, and Dylan really carried us,” said head coach Josh Heupel. “When our run game is clicking, it opens up everything else.”
Defense Holds Strong
Tennessee’s defense also played a crucial role, limiting Mississippi State to just 270 total yards. The Bulldogs’ star quarterback struggled to find rhythm against a relentless Vols pass rush, which sacked him three times and forced a pair of turnovers.
Linebacker Aaron Beasley led the charge, finishing with 10 tackles and a key fumble recovery in the third quarter that set up a Tennessee field goal.
“Our defense has really stepped up these past few weeks,” said Heupel. “They’re playing fast, physical football, and it’s great to see.”
Looking Ahead
The win moves Tennessee to 8-3 on the season and keeps their SEC East hopes alive, with a crucial matchup against Vanderbilt looming next week. Meanwhile, Mississippi State falls to 5-6, putting their bowl eligibility in jeopardy.
For Tennessee fans, the night was a reminder of the program’s potential under Heupel’s leadership. As the Vols look ahead to the postseason, performances like Sampson’s will be key to keeping their momentum alive.
Final Stats
Tennessee: 475 total yards (228 rushing, 247 passing)
Mississippi State: 270 total yards (130 rushing, 140 passing)
Key Players:
Dylan Sampson: 149 rushing yards, 1 TD
Joe Milton III: 215 passing yards, 2 TDs
Aaron Beasley: 10 tackles, 1 fumble recovery
As the Neyland faithful sang “Rocky Top” into the night, it was clear the Volunteers are hitting their stride at just the right time
