Sat Sep 27 21:00:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

Mississippi State sophomore running back Fluff Bothwell is making a name for himself with his tough running style and positive attitude. Despite a childhood nickname stemming from his large birth weight, Bothwell has overcome adversity, including a house fire in 2023 and the recent loss of his cousin. After a successful freshman season at South Alabama, Bothwell transferred to Mississippi State and has quickly become a key player in their undefeated start. He’s not only a talented player but also a well-liked and respected teammate, praised by coaches for his work ethic and demeanor. He credits his cousin, who died in an accident, as his inspiration to keep pushing forward. Bothwell is now preparing for a crucial game against No. 15 Tennessee, urging fans to create a raucous home-field advantage.

**News Article:**

**Mississippi State’s “Fluff” Bothwell Overcomes Tragedy, Leads Undefeated Bulldogs**

**STARKVILLE, MS – September 23, 2025** – Mississippi State sophomore running back Da’Marion “Fluff” Bothwell is proving to be more than just a powerful runner; he’s a resilient force on and off the field. The Bulldogs’ rising star has helped propel the team to a 4-0 start, rushing for 271 yards and four touchdowns this season.

The origin of the nickname “Fluff” came from his unusually large birth weight. While the moniker might suggest something soft, Bothwell’s on-field performance is anything but. The 5-foot-10, 230-pound back transferred to Mississippi State this year after a stellar freshman season at South Alabama where he rushed for 834 yards and 13 touchdowns.

“Having Fluff and his addition has been huge for us,” said MSU Head Coach Jeff Lebby.

But Bothwell’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. In December 2023, his family home in Oneonta, Alabama, was destroyed by a fire. The family lost all their belongings in the devastating fire but the community rallied around the family with support. Then, earlier this year, shortly after arriving in Starkville, Bothwell tragically lost his cousin, Malikih Montgomery, in a car accident. Montgomery was a constant source of support for Bothwell, and someone he spoke to daily.

“I came back because I knew he wouldn’t want me to miss anything with football,” Bothwell said, explaining his decision to quickly return to the team after his cousin’s passing. “He’d want me to keep going. So, I haven’t stopped since.”

Running backs coach Anthony Tucker praised Bothwell’s work ethic and attitude. “His personality fits who we are and our culture…He fills our workman, blue collar, dirty, hard-work-in-the-dark type of mentality.”

As the Bulldogs prepare for a crucial showdown against No. 15 Tennessee this Saturday, Bothwell is focused on leading his team to victory. He is looking forward to continue his performance with the inspiration of his cousin on the field.

“It’s just about believing,” Bothwell said. “We have a lot of belief in ourselves and what we’re able to do and how we prepare ourselves.”

Bothwell urged fans to bring their cowbells and cheer loud to create a home-field advantage.

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