To glean further insight into the mysteries of Mississippi State, we're following up yesterday's Brandon Marcello interview with a short Q&A with Jeremy Flint of SB Nation's Bulldog blog, For Whom the Cowbell Tolls. Many thanks to Jeremy for his time.
Give us your take on the Dan Mullen hire. Has there been anything for Bulldog fans to complain about?
I think Dan Mullen was a huge hire for the football program. Here was a coach who was instrumental in Florida winning two SEC and National Championships in three years and helping to develop players like Tim Tebow. I think he is still a slam dunk coach and Mississippi State fans love having him as the coach. He has brought passion back to the program that was lacking during the later part of Croom's tenure and has strengthened the rival with Mississippi by refusing to call them by name.
What's more intimidating to an opposing player: a stadium full of cowbells or a stadium full of people calling the Hogs?
Definitely cowbells, but I am biased of course.
How much have you enjoyed Ole Miss' difficult season?
Some Mississippi State fans, as they become older and wiser, begin to pull for The School Up North (TSUN) unless they are playing State. They say its better for the conference and better for the state of Mississippi. I am not one of those fans. I hate TSUN with a passion, and any difficulty they have in any sport only causes me more joy (within the confines of good sportsmanship, of course).
What's your prediction for Saturday's game?
Arkansas definitely has a killer passing game with 10 foot tall Ryan Mallet slinging the pigskin around. Our defense has been key to our success this year and our offense has been respectable at times. If we can run the ball efficiently and keep from turning it over, we have a chance to upset Arkansas on our home turf.