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Bulldogs defense faces dual-threat QB test again
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Bulldogs defense faces dual-threat QB test again

STARKVILLE, Miss. – Mississippi State didn’t have much success stopping a dual-threat quarterback last week against Arkansas.

Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green led his offense to a 58-25 victory with nearly 400 total yards of offense (314 passing yards, 79 rushing yards), six total touchdowns (five passing, one on the ground) and only one interception.

If the Bulldogs (1-7, 0-5 SEC) want to avoid another shocking upset, they’ll need to stop another dual-threat quarterback.

“We have to put this guy on the field when we have the opportunity,” Mississippi State coach Jeff Lebby said this week. “It’s about us making sure we know who has the QB, who has the fullback and the whole quarterback game. Then, from the perspective of rushing, one who rushes to contain cannot go out and figure these things out on the spot. When you’re going against QB-led guys, you’re going against guys who have the ability to extend the play.”

Here are three UMass players to watch on offense, starting with the Minutemen’s dual-threat quarterback.

Massachusetts Minutemen quarterback Taisun Phommachanh (3) looks to throw a pass during a warmup.

Massachusetts Minutemen quarterback Taisun Phommachanh (3) looks to throw a pass during a warmup before the game against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium. / Matthew O’Haren-Imagn Images

Eastern Washington Eagles wide receiver Jakobie James (11) catches a pass during the first half.

Eastern Washington Eagles wide receiver Jakobie James (11) catches a pass during the first half as he is tackled by Oregon Ducks linebacker Jeffrey Bassa (33) at Autzen Stadium. /Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images

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