“Massive Stuff” The New Look Bulldog Offensive Line Addition Is Taking Shape

MSU has many new faces up front, but the group has made nice progress in several areas.

STARKVILLE, Miss. — Change has been a constant for Mississippi State football fans over the past seven years, with Jeff Lebby stepping in as the new head coach, marking the fifth different individual in that role since the 2017 season.

In today’s college football landscape, fans frequently encounter new names due to the transfer portal. Mississippi State has actively utilized this portal, completely revamping several position groups in the process.

The offensive line has seen the most significant turnover under Lebby, as it returns no starters and the previous coach was not retained. To address this, Lebby hired former Arkansas coach Cody Kennedy to lead the offensive line, which is an excellent match.

Kennedy was a 2021 semifinalist for the Broyles Award, recognized for his work under Razorbacks offensive coordinator Kendal Briles, who employs a similar veer-and-shoot system as Lebby. Before taking the field, Kennedy recognized the extensive work ahead and was greatly motivated.

“It’s day one here, and we have no returning starters. The first priority is recruiting,” Kennedy stated. “In today’s game, it’s crucial to leverage the transfer portal. We’ve brought in four players, and they will all contribute.”

Kennedy’s efforts paid off, bringing in a talented group of offensive linemen with considerable experience: Makylan Pounders (Memphis), Ethan Miner (North Texas), Marlon Martinez (LSU), and Jacoby Jackson (Texas Tech).

Recruiting through the transfer portal can pose challenges in building a cohesive unit, as veteran players often seek guaranteed playing time. However, Kennedy faced no issues in this regard with his new recruits.

“The guys we brought in are mature and understand they need to earn their spots,” Kennedy explained.

Experience is vital for an effective offensive line. Although the Bulldogs have no returning starters, their newcomers collectively bring 64 starts from previous schools.

“It’s significant to realize there are no returning starters, but we have a lot of players with plenty of college experience,” Kennedy noted. “They may not have done it in Maroon, but many are bringing an experienced and competitive mindset.”

Among the influx of talent, Albert Reese, a lineman entering his fourth season at MSU, has earned consistent praise from the coaching staff. The 6-7, 330-pound player took first-team reps at left guard during the MSU spring game but has also played right tackle.

Recently selected as one of three attendees for MSU at SEC Media Days, Reese appears ready to take on a leadership role. He emphasized the strong camaraderie within the unit, despite the many new faces.

“We’ve bonded really well, especially considering we all come from different backgrounds,” Reese said.

Like many Bulldogs, Reese has experienced several coaching changes throughout his time at MSU. Kennedy is keen to establish his approach with the team, focusing on key principles.

“There are three main points: effort, physicality, and execution,” Reese shared. “He emphasizes these every practice.”

Kennedy has a strong track record working with offensive linemen, but his recruitment efforts have stood out since arriving on campus. He understands the importance of creating chemistry among the group rather than just assembling talented individuals.

A selfless attitude is crucial for an offensive line, but Kennedy believes this mindset is becoming rare in modern college football. He provided insight into his recruiting strategy and the significance of properly building his group.

“You need to be honest during the recruiting process. Yes, there are opportunities, but if you rely on handouts, when the going gets tough, those players won’t step up,” Kennedy said. “Every day is a job interview, and it’s up to you to hold your position.”