LSU vs. Mississippi State: Week 3 Begins with BCS-Busting SEC Matchup

If you were looking for a great way to start Week 3 of the college football weekend, I would highly suggest taking a look at the matchup between LSU and Mississippi State.

Not only will this be an interesting game that is sure to feature tons of good football, but there is a lot at stake during this matchup.

This game is going to be packed with BCS implications on both sides, and I can guarantee you that both teams will be primed and ready to go.

LSU is coming into this game ranked No. 3, and they have looked great so far this season. In fact, they have looked like they have what it takes to be the best team in the country!

No. 25 Mississippi State is no slouch though, and when you consider that this game could seriously propel them up the rankings, that makes them even more dangerous.

Also, they will have serious home field advantage and are coming off a devastating loss to Auburn.

It was a game that they should have won and they know it, so getting this game is not just important, it’s integral to the success of their program.

For as good as LSU has been I think they are going to have a lot of problems with the Bulldogs. The Associated Press via SI.com writes more on the No. 25 ranked team:

"But the Bulldogs have possibly their best team in years, with a spread offense led by quarterback Chris Relf and running backs Vick Ballard and LaDarius Perkins. The trio was largely responsible for MSU gaining 333 rushing yards in last week's 41-34 road loss to Auburn, and the ground-based plan will be the same against LSU.

Mississippi State also will have the advantage of a sold out Davis Wade Stadium, filled with fans and their trademark cowbells that will create a deafening atmosphere. The Bulldogs have been nationally ranked for nine straight weeks dating back to last season, the program's longest streak since 1999.

LSU tight end DeAngelo Peterson said the Tigers are well aware that Mississippi State will be desperate to stay in the Western division race.

"I think they'll come out there 100 percent because they know they can't lose another SEC game," Peterson said. "That'll put them out of it. So we know they're going to come in and give us their all, so we've got to come give them our all."

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This is not going to be a game that comes down to game plan and strategy. It’s not going to be a game that’s won or lost because of talent and or luck.

This game is going to come down to heart, and who wants it.

Who needs it more?

LSU needs this game to stay atop the rankings and in the quest for a BCS title.

MSU needs this game to prove that they are a legitimate program, and it will seriously improve their rankings and prestige this season.

What’s the bigger motivating factor?

That’s going to be the question that’s answered when these two teams square off.

Either way, I can guarantee you that it’s going to be a great game.