Mississippi State downgrades Taylor and Bothwell to doubtful for LSU

Mississippi State quarterback Kamario Taylor and leading rusher Fluff Bothwell are now doubtful for Saturday’s game at LSU, ESPN reported Friday night. Both had been questionable on the SEC’s initial availability report.

Taylor has been dealing with a foot injury and turf toe, according to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, who reported that the quarterback was not expected to play. Taylor was hurt against Missouri and later left the Alabama game in the fourth quarter after playing through discomfort.

The Bulldogs would be replacing a quarterback who has thrown for 1,450 yards, 17 touchdowns and four interceptions this season, while adding 159 yards and a touchdown on the ground.

Bothwell has rushed for a team-high 403 yards and three touchdowns. He left the Alabama game after the opening drive; Thamel reported that he was dealing with a lower-body injury.

Mississippi State had an open week after Alabama, but both players’ designations worsened before the trip to Baton Rouge. Neither has been officially ruled out. Kickoff is noon Eastern on Saturday, October 17.

ESPN’s Friday report · Thamel on Taylor · Thamel on Bothwell

The source cards below include the earlier availability reports.