Why Mississippi State football is wearing throwback jerseys from 1998 in Kentucky game
STARKVILLE — Mississippi State football is rocking a new look Saturday against Kentucky. Well, sort of.
The Bulldogs are sporting their 1998 throwback uniforms for the homecoming contest at Davis Wade Stadium. The look is part of a night honoring the 25-year anniversary of Mississippi State winning the SEC West.
The uniforms are a replica of what coach Jackie Sherrill's squad wore during one of the best stretches in MSU history. The maroon jerseys feature white text across the chest reading, "MISS. STATE." That's accompanied by the old SEC logo and the interlocking MSU logo on the shoulders.
The interlocking logo is also featured on Mississippi State's maroon helmets.
What did Mississippi State football do in 1998?
Behind an 8-5 record overall and a 6-2 mark in conference play, Mississippi State won the SEC West. It's the lone division title in MSU history.
Mississippi State finished in a tie with Arkansas atop the division standings but won the tiebreaker thanks to its 22-21 victory against the Razorbacks. Mississippi State ended the regular season with three straight wins, capped by a division-clinching victory at rival Ole Miss.
MSU lost to Tennessee in the SEC title game in Atlanta before dropping the Cotton Bowl against Texas.
BEHIND THE JERSEYS: What Mississippi State football wearing throwback jerseys means to Jackie Sherrill, 1998 SEC West champs
Who were the key coaches, players on Mississippi State's 1998 roster?
Mississippi State was coached by Jackie Sherrill in 1998. He will be among those in attendance this week to celebrate the anniversary.
MSU's starting quarterback was Wayne Madkin, who threw for 1,532 yards with 11 touchdowns and nine interceptions. Running back James Johnson provided 1,383 rushing yards while Kevin Prentiss led the team with 681 receiving yards.
Mississippi State was anchored by its defense, which allowed just 16.8 points per game. Robert Bean had five interceptions, which was tied for most in the SEC.
Other key players include offensive lineman Floyd Womack, defensive lineman Kevin Sluder, defensive back Anthony Derricks, defensive lineman Edward Smith and linebacker Barrin Simpson.
Stefan Krajisnik is the Mississippi State beat writer for the Clarion Ledger. Contact him at skrajisnik@gannett.com or follow him on the X platform, formerly known as Twitter, @skrajisnik3.
This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Mississippi State football jerseys vs Kentucky are 1998 throwbacks
