Zach Arnett updates defensive injuries for Mississippi State

Mississippi State head coach Zach Arnett provided updates on multiple Bulldogs defenders during his press conference this week, ahead of Saturday’s game against Alabama.

Arnett was asked at first about defensive tackle Trevion Williams and defensive end De’Monte Russell. Williams didn’t travel to South Carolina for Saturday’s game due to an injury, while Russell was banged up during the game.

“Trevion was unfortunately unable to go last week. De’Monte was in the game and he played. He just got dinged up a little bit,” Arnett said. “So like everyone on our roster, we evaluate them week to week and if medically it’s safe for them to be out there and the trainer’s good to go with them, then they’re cleared to play and we play them. And if not, then it’s next man up mentality.”

Williams, who is a redshirt freshman, has 6 tackles, including 1.5 tackles for loss. He has played off the bench for Mississippi State in three of four games. Russell has started all four games on the season. He has 15 tackles, 1 tackle for loss and a quarterback hurry.

Arnett also provided an update on Bulldogs star running back “Woody” Jo’Quavious Marks, who was also banged up against South Carolina.

“I think Woody’s going to be… just as I was saying, we’re going to evaluation, give him as much time as possible during the week. If Woody feels good to go and the training staff clears him good to go, he’ll go,” Arnett said. “I mean we know Woody will go. If not, that’s why you’ve got depth. That’s why you’ve got other guys in the room.”

Zach Arnett shares Mississippi State plan for redshirting players

Mississippi State head coach Zach Arnett also shared other personnel updates during his press conference this week.

He was asked who is in line to redshirt for the Bulldogs.

“That’s ongoing as the season develops,” Arnett said. “I don’t think there’s any way right now in the way college football is structured to just say that you make that decision for him. You have four games available to play in. So obviously guys who have not played in those four still have opportunities to play and still retain their redshirt. But with injuries, with transfer portal, with just availability, your whole roster has to be ready to help at anytime.”

The Bulldogs are four games into the season, and players are allowed to play up to four games and still redshirt.