There are a plethora of Black football players who have made a mark Mississippi State University and set the groundwork for the talented athletes of the past, present and future.

Black History Month is a way to celebrate the achievements and lives of Black people around the world. To take part in that recognization and remembrance, here are five Black athletes that made their mark in Bulldog country. 
DB Frank Dowsing Jr. (1969-1972) 
When discussing the most impactful athletes in MSU history, one should always mention defensive back Frank Dowsing Jr. In 1969, Dowsing and defensive lineman Robert Bell became the first Black football players to step on the gridiron for the Bulldogs.
Dowsing received many prestigious awards during his collegiate career such as Academic All-SEC (1970-1972), All-SEC first-team defensive back (1971-1972), All-American defensive back (‘72) and Academic All-American (‘72).
Before the honorary game against Bowling Green University, MSU associate head coach Tony Hughes discussed the impact Dowsing and Bell had on him as a player and coach.
“It means a lot because I’m a minority that was raised in the state of Mississippi,” Hughes said. “Having an opportunity to coach at Mississippi State wouldn’t be that way if it hadn’t been for men like that that were willing to make the sacrifice when it wasn’t the popular thing to do.”
DL Robert Bell (1969-1973) – Football 
Defensive lineman Robert Bell possessed an inspiring leadership quality that influenced many Bulldogs of the past, present and future. If you were to step foot in Davis Wade Stadium in the early 1970s, you could hear the the chants of “Give ‘em hell, Robert Bell” from the Bulldog faithful.
Bell was an outstanding athlete and helped lead MSU to its first winning season in seven years in 1970. Along with Dowsing, Bell was one of the first Black football players to attend MSU.
After Bell passed in late March 2022, MSU President Mark Keenum released a statement about Bell’s character and the mark the football player left as a Bulldog.
“The Mississippi State University family is deeply saddened at the passing of the great Bulldog football defender Robert Bell,” President Keenum said. “Robert played a pivotal roll in bringing change to our state and our university through his courage, character and zeal to compete.”
WR Eric Moulds (1993-1995)
Lucedale, Mississippi, native wide receiver Eric Moulds made an immediate impact on the team as a Bulldog. He played in 31 games at MSU and recorded 2,022 yards on 118 receptions. He earned many All-American and All-SEC honors during his time as a Bulldog, while also running track during the indoor season.
The Buffalo Bills drafted Moulds with the 24th overall pick in the first round of the NFL Draft. He had an outstanding professional career, as he finished with three Pro Bowls (1998, 2000, 2001) and became the first Bills player in history to make 100 catches in a single season.
DL Chris Jones (2013-2015)
Just one week removed from his second Super Bowl win, defensive lineman Chris Jones continues his reign as one of the best defensive linemen in the NFL. Jones started his career at MSU in 2013 and instantly became a game-changer for the Bulldogs.
During his time at MSU, Jones received prestigious awards, such as Freshman All-American in 2013, as well as Second-Team All-American in 2015. Jones played well for MSU, but his talent shines even brighter on the big stage.
Since the Kansas City Chiefs drafted Jones in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft, he has recorded 243 tackles (168 of those solo), 65 sacks, 12 forced fumbles, 33 pass deflections and two interceptions.
QB Dak Prescott (2012-2015)
Last, but certainly not least, is Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. Prescott’s love for MSU and his contributions off (and on) the field are the driving factors that make him one of the most beloved Bulldogs of all time.
During his time at MSU, Prescott reached the pinnacle of 38 school records. He recorded 9,376 passing yards and threw for 70 touchdowns and also used his impressive athletic ability to rush for 2,521 yards and 41 touchdowns.
No matter where you go in Starkville, everyone will forever mention the years Prescott dedicated to the team that led to the Bulldogs’ success.