Jeff Lebby’s era of Mississippi State football has arrived.
The Bulldogs are on their third coach in as many years as Mike Leach’s tragic passing opened the door for defensive coordinator Zach Arnett’s debut as head coach last year. That experiment failed before the year even ended for State and now it’s Lebby’s turn to take the wheel.
While there is always a risk in hiring first time head coaches, Lebby brings to Starkville an exciting offensive scheme that has been productive everywhere he’s been. The coach has also brought with him some swagger that has the fanbase ready to see what’s next.
Over the course of the next 100 days, we will take a look at Lebby’s roster and even some fun historical rewinds that will bring back memories for Dawg fans of all ages.
Today, we look at a veteran tight end transfer adding depth to the room.
100 Day Bulldog Countdown: 84 Days – No. 84, Sr. TE Justin Ball
A year after the Bulldogs had to move defensive and offensive lineman to the tight end position, Lebby and his new tight ends coach Jon Cooper restocked the room.
One of the first of the tight ends on the board out of the portal, Justin is one of siblings that will be playing for the Bulldogs at the position this fall. Younger brother, Cameron, also transferred in this year and both look to help the Bulldogs do big things in 2024.
The Washington D.C. native chose Vanderbilt out of high school and spent his last five years with the Commodores. He played in 38 games over those seasons with 16 starts and made 22 catches for 204 yards and a touchdown. The bulk of that came last season when he started in all 12 contests and had 131 yards on 15 catches with his first career touchdown.
With the Bulldogs, Justin will compete with his brother and former Colorado transfer Seydou Traore who sat out all of last year due to NCAA transfer rules. All of a sudden, the Bulldogs have quality depth at the position and look to have several weapons capable of producing big plays.
At 6’6, 250 pounds, Justin Ball is definitely one of those options that can help change the game for Lebby’s offense in year one. The battle at the position should be intense in August.
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