Murray State Racers

Game 1: 6:00 p.m., Saturday, September 3

Opponent: Murray State

Mississippi State and Murray State will be playing football Saturday evening on the heels of the greatest natural disaster to hit this country in our lifetime.

Five Bulldog players have family directly affected by Katrina. Some of those lost their homes, like countless others in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. And adding to the heartbreak, David Heard lost his father last week before Katrina hit, yet he, like those who lost everything, hasn't missed a single practice all week.

"It shows a great sense of character," Croom said. "They're stronger than I am. It has affected all of us as human beings. How can you not be devastated by what we've seen? We just have to continue to try to move on."

University officials are hoping football can serve as a diversion by giving away tickets to those taking refugee from the storm in the Starkville area. While trivial, hopefully the Bulldogs will give them something to cheer about.

As for the game...the Racers won't be able to slow down Norwood. Look for State to control the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball, generate some turnovers and win big.

Prediction: Bulldogs roll, 38-10.