STARKVILLE, Mississippi — mississippi state bulldogs It's been a few weeks since spring practice began under first-year head coach Jeff Levy. The former Oklahoma offensive coordinator needed to fill the receiver position quickly, so he acquired two playmakers in Kelly Akarai and Kevin Coleman.
The Levys offense was the most important recruiting pitch for both players.
“His offense is explosive,” Coleman said. “He goes to his people and makes them do the work.”
“How much he throws the ball,” Akalaii said. “I love it because I have great weapons around me.”
Akalaii transferred to MSU from UTEP and was named first team All-Conference USA last year. The Texas native was explosive for the Miners, recording 1,033 receiving yards on 48 receptions, averaging 21.5 yards per catch.
Levy's offense is a perfect fit for Akalai as he can stretch the field and make explosive plays.
“They're looking to me to make big plays on the field,” Akalai said. “That’s why he brought me here and that’s what I’m here for.”
The senior receiver has been working the outside spot this spring. Coleman, by contrast, has worked primarily in the slot.
This is the third school for Coleman, a Missouri native, so he's no stranger to the transfer portal and getting used to a new school. He signed with Deion Sanders and Jackson State out of high school and made a huge impact on the Tigers in one season.
Coleman was the 2022 SWAC Newcomer of the Year with 32 receptions for 475 yards and three touchdowns. After a season at Jackson State, Coleman decided to make the jump to the Power Five level when he transferred to Louisville, where he had a productive season, totaling 26 receptions, 362 yards, and two touchdowns. I achieved a good result.
Both players are expected to not only excel on the field, but also as leaders. They are well adapted to the role and want to ensure a lot of chemistry.
“Make sure everyone understands the correct page,” Akalaii said. “If one person eats, everyone eats. You can't play this game alone.”
The Bulldogs have had some of the most talented receiver rooms ever in recent years, and this group is no exception. With a good mix of veteran receivers and a trio of four-star freshmen this year, this group has a chance to be special, but it all starts with two transfers.
“We can be elite,” Coleman said. “We have some really good older players, but the younger players are surprising me.”
