STARKVILLE, Miss. (Interstat) — The Lipscomb Bisons will look to salvage a game in their weekend series against the Mississippi State Bulldogs on Saturday afternoon at Dudy Noble Field, Polk-DeMent Stadium, though rain is in the forecast.

First pitch is scheduled for 4 p.m. under threatening skies, with a game-time temperature of 79 degrees and rain expected.

Mississippi State (12-2) has dominated the early series, winning 8-3 on Thursday and shutting out the Bisons on Friday. The Bulldogs have won 10 of their last 11 games, showcasing one of the nation’s most potent offenses.

The Bulldogs will send right-hander Ryan McPherson to the mound. McPherson (3-0, 1.50 ERA) was stellar in Thursday’s series opener, allowing one earned run on five hits with eight strikeouts over six innings to earn the win. In his last three starts, he has struck out 24 batters in 19 innings.

Lipscomb (6-6) will counter with right-hander Alexander Llinas, who took the loss in relief on Thursday. Llinas pitched five innings, allowing three earned runs on zero hits with four strikeouts, but was tagged with the decision. He will seek a stronger start after struggling in his last three appearances.

The Bisons’ offense, which was held scoreless Friday, will rely on first baseman Damion Kenealy Jr., who drove in two runs in Thursday’s contest. Lipscomb has shown resilience this season, including a series win over Toledo last weekend.

Mississippi State’s lineup is powered by infielder Drew Wyers, who hit two home runs and drove in two in Thursday’s victory. The Bulldogs are averaging over eight runs per game at home this season.

According to Interstat’s game simulator, Mississippi State is projected to win 7-5.

The series concludes Sunday at 1 p.m.