Mississippi State junior running back Fluff Bothwell will be available for Saturday's showdown with Oklahoma after being removed from the SEC availability report on Friday, according to ESPN's Pete Thamel. The update gives the Bulldogs a chance to have one of their leading offensive contributors, who had initially been listed as questionable, back in action as they attempt to end a two-game losing streak.
Bothwell leads Mississippi State in rushing this season, recording 403 yards and three touchdowns. However, his contributions have been limited recently because of an ankle injury. He managed just one carry for one yard during the Bulldogs' Week 5 loss to Alabama before missing last week's game against LSU.
Mississippi State suffered a 31-0 defeat versus the Tigers without Bothwell and quarterback Kamario Taylor, extending its losing streak to two games. The Bulldogs entered their bye week following the Crimson Tide loss but were unable to get their offense back on track against LSU.
Mississippi State has another reason for optimism beyond Bothwell. Taylor, despite being listed as questionable on Friday's injury report with a foot injury, is expected to attempt to play on Saturday, Thamel and On3's Pete Nakos reported.
Moreover, Linebacker Zakari Tillman and offensive guard DJ Chester were also removed from Friday's report after previously being listed as questionable.
Article Continues BelowHowever, safety Isaac Smith has been ruled out against the Sooners after suffering another injury during the Tigers game. Bulldogs linebacker Jalen Smith, defensive tackles Trevion Williams and Diesel Moye, and wide receiver Ayden Williams also remain unavailable, with Trevion, Moye and Ayden already ruled out for the remainder of 2026.
Mississippi State enters Saturday's contest with a 4-2 overall record and a 2-2 mark in SEC play, while Oklahoma stands at 3-3 overall and 1-2 in conference action. The matchup will also be the first meeting between the Bulldogs and Sooners in either program's football history.

