Mississippi State football coach Jeff Lebby always expects to get high-level QB play in his offense, and coming out of his second spring as head coach of the Bulldogs, there's reason to believe he'll get that for 2025. Let's take a look at the MSU QB room following spring practices...
Blake Shapen returns as the leader of the Mississippi State QB room
Blake Shapen is back for his sixth year of college football. The veteran was granted an extra year of eligibility after last season's injury ended what would have been his final season just four games in. But in those four games, Shapen showed why Jeff Lebby thinks highly of him.
The former Baylor transfer completed 68.5% of his passes for 974 yards with eight touchdowns to just one interception, also adding a pair of scores on the ground. He was prone to sacks (though his offensive line left him completely out to dry) and had some careless moments.
But he's a great fit for Lebby's offense with a big arm, quick release, and good mobility. When healthy, Blake Shapen is a plus-starter at the power conference level.
Mississippi State's young QBs are incredibly talented
Behind Shapen is likely the most talented duo of young QBs we've ever seen in Starkville. The Bulldogs added FSU transfer Luke Kromenhoek during the offseason. A high 4-star in the Class of 2024, Kromenhoek was thrust into action for a bad Seminoles team last season. His numbers were modest (52.4%, 502 yards, 6.0 YPA, 3 TDs, 2 INTs ), but he flashed his talent and gained experience in big games down the stretch.
And then there's Kamario Taylor, MSU's freshman phenom. Taylor played right down the road from Starkville at Noxubee County HS and is the highest-rated QB in Bulldog history. He has a big frame, a great arm, outstanding athleticism, and he looked fantastic in the spring game. He's still somewhat raw, but he's also not a typical freshman.
Mississippi State should see improved QB play in 2025
This is an outstanding QB room. A healthy Blake Shapen is a good starting QB in the SEC, but if he were to go down (which he is unfortunately prone to do), the talent behind him is more than good enough to assure State still gets positive play under center. QB play was mostly fine for Mississippi State last season despite its starters not being put in great situations. Based on experience, talent, and, ideally, an improved supporting cast, this could be a position of strength in 2025.