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WATCH: MSU OC Kevin Barbay media op - Texas A&M week

IMG_4594by:Tanner Marlar•11/07/23•

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PARSON
Nov 4, 2023; Starkville, Mississippi, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs quarterback Chris Parson (16) looks to pass against the Kentucky Wildcats during the fourth quarter at Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Bush-USA TODAY Sports

Mississippi State offensive coordinator Kevin Barbay met with the media on Monday night to discuss the team’s performance against Kentucky and the preparation for Texas A&M.

Red Zone issues

Barbay acknowledged the team’s poor performance on the offensive end, particularly in the red zone.

“I felt like we had some opportunities down there that we just didn’t capitalize on,” said Barbay, “and we’ve got to make sure we’re taking advantage of those opportunities. Obviously, the turnover was something that was big, but we had too many penalties.”

State’s inability to find the end zone has become a theme over the past three weeks, as they’ve amassed just 23 points in three games. That will have to be flipped if the Bulldogs want to have a prayer against A&M in college station.

First impression of Chris Parson’s first snaps

Barbay mentioned that Chris Parson did provide one of the few explosive plays of the night, and also referenced the freshman quarterback’s pure love of the game.

“You can tell in the few amount of plays that Chris got to play that he really enjoys playing the game of football,” said Barbay. “I thought he did a great job of leading the guys and going out there and completing a couple passes…I’m really encouraged with Chris Parson.”

Barbay also referenced Parson’s mental capacity for the game. According to Barbay, Parson prepares every week like he’s going to be the starter, and it keeps him ready for any situation the game may throw at the young signal caller.

The Quarterback situation

On Monday morning, head coach Zach Arnett mentioned that if Will Rogers can go this weekend, he is 100% the starter. However, he also added that at that point, it was too early to name the starter. In short, everything depends on how Rogers progresses throughout the week. Barbay was asked how he prepared for a game in which he’s not 100% sure who the starter will be.

“It’s day-by-day for us as far as planning and trying to put together a game plan that plays to each of those guys strengths,” said Barbay. “Obviously, Will and Chris have more similar strengths than Mike, where we utilize (Mike’s) legs a lot more.”

Barbay mentioned that each week the offense has to prepare for anything. Therefore, that aspect doesn’t change.

What stands out about the A&M Defense?

Barbay mentioned the skill and size of the Aggies’ defensive line first and foremost. He also mentioned their depth, saying that the two-deep roster really sticks out.

“The thing that really stands out to me (is the) two deep,” said Barbay. “There’s no step down. I mean these guys are really, really good. When they roll guys, there’s no drop off…these guys are well coached and they’re physical.”

To watch the full press conference, view the window at the top of the page.

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