The Mississippi State bulldogs defeated Miami of Ohio 17-16 in the St. Pete Bowl at Tropicana Field Monday.

  • Mississippi State defeats Miami University in St. Pete Bowl
  • Games ends 17-16 in favor of Mississippi
  • Fans on both sides optimistic before the game

Fans gathered outside the stadium before the game.

“We didn’t have the best of seasons so we kind of back-doored our way in and to find out they are going to be in our back yard. This was the best,” Mississippi State fan Michael Moore said.

"It’s the day after Christmas and Santa and his elves brought us to a bowl game,” Mississippi State fan Tonya Volo said.

Miami fans also tailgated before the game and were optimistic about their team taking home the win. 

"Miami has won six in a row so I think they stay on the winning side,” Miami fan Joe Pequignot said. “I see them coming out on top."

Fans kept up the excitement as they filled into Tropicana field for the game.

“We have a team that has turned the year around, we have a chance to play a SEC school, it doesn’t get any better than this,” Miami fan Alex Dombroff said.

Mississippi State blocked a field goal in the final seconds to secure the win.