No. 12 Bulldogs Rout No. 25 Clemson in Softball Blowout

Mississippi State bounces back from shutout loss with 9-1 run-rule victory over Clemson

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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A day after being shut out against No. 25 Clemson, the No. 12 Mississippi State softball team came roaring back with a 9-1 run-rule victory over the Tigers in six innings. The Bulldogs had 12 hits, including five for extra bases, to take down the home team and even the weekend series.

Why it matters

This win over a ranked opponent is an important bounce-back for Mississippi State, which is off to the best start in program history at 18-2. The Bulldogs' offense was stifled in the first meeting, but they showed their ability to make adjustments and dominate a quality opponent.

The details

Mississippi State scored eight runs in the final four innings to pull away from Clemson. Bulldog starter Peja Goold threw 4.1 innings, limiting the Tigers to three hits and one run. Kiarra Sells, Abby Grace Richardson, Nadia Barbary, and freshman Kinley Keller all drove in runs for the Bulldogs, with Keller hitting a two-run home run in the sixth inning to invoke the run rule.

  • The Bulldogs failed to score on Saturday against Clemson.
  • On Sunday, Mississippi State scored a run in the first inning and then broke the game open late.

The players

Peja Goold

The Mississippi State starting pitcher threw 4.1 innings, limiting Clemson to three hits and one run.

Kiarra Sells

The Bulldogs' senior had a 3-for-4 game, including a solo home run in the third inning.

Kinley Keller

The Mississippi State freshman hit a two-run home run in the sixth inning to invoke the run rule.

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What they’re saying

“We must have made some good adjustments at the plate after yesterday's game. The offense really came alive today and it was great to see us bounce back with such a convincing win.”

— Samantha Ricketts, Mississippi State Head Coach (on3.com)

What’s next

Mississippi State (18-2) will look to continue its strong start this week, traveling to UAB on Wednesday before heading to the Jaguar Classic in Mobile over the weekend to take on New Mexico, host South Alabama and Samford.

The takeaway

This dominant performance over a ranked opponent shows the depth and resilience of the Mississippi State softball team, which is off to the best start in program history. The Bulldogs' ability to make adjustments and respond after a tough loss is a promising sign as they look to maintain their momentum throughout the season.