Dog dings

Mississippi State has had a run of injuries to its receivers that has tested the Dogs’ depth.

Malik Dear, the team’s top slot receiver, tore his anterior cruciate ligament in the spring and has been out all year. Gabe Myles, a senior and the team’s No. 2 outside receiver, is out for Saturday’s game with a foot injury.

Donald Gray, the Bulldogs’ top outside receiver, is questionable with a groin injury. Coach Dan Mullen said the trainers were optimistic Gray could play against Arkansas.

Jesse Jackson, Reggie Todd, Jordan Thomas and Jamal Couch have gotten increased playing time on the outside, while Keith Mixon, who also has been banged up, has worked in the slot.

Middle linebacker Dez Harris, who makes the defensive calls, suffered a thigh bruise against Alabama and is questionable to play against the Hogs.

Safety Brandon Bryant passed through concussion protocol after taking a hit against the Crimson Tide and is expected to play on Saturday.