Posted by ESPN.com's Chris Low

The pain for Mississippi State won’t wear off for a couple of days.

But when it does, the Bulldogs will be better able to put into perspective Saturday’s bitter 30-26 loss to LSU.

Yes, Mississippi State couldn’t get the ball into the end zone on four tries from just inside the 3, but the Bulldogs had a chance to beat the No. 7-ranked Tigers despite turning the ball over four times in the first half.

Just to be within breathing distance of LSU was an accomplishment for Mississippi State when you look at the recent history in this series.

LSU had won nine in a row coming into the game by a combined 374-105 margin.

The Bulldogs outgained the Tigers by more than 100 yards in the game and held LSU to 30 yards rushing.

Had it not been for an unbelievable 93-yard punt return for a touchdown by LSU’s Chad Jones, Mississippi State probably wins this game.

I know Dan Mullen isn’t into moral victories, but this is a loss the Bulldogs can build on.