Mississippi State Lands Talented Quarterback Out Of The Transfer Portal – Gridiron Heroics
The Mississippi State Bulldogs got an exciting new head coach in Jeff Lebby. He was known for designing great offenses with the Oklahoma Sooners and now brings his prowess to the Bulldogs program. However, his offense needed a quarterback and they found one quickly. Former Baylor quarterback Blake Shapen announced his intention to play for the Bulldogs.
Mississippi State Lands QB Blake Shapen
Shapen had a good season with the Bears. He threw for 2,188 yards, 13 touchdowns, and three interceptions this season. One of the reasons he struggled was his offensive line was terrible. He was sacked 25 times this season. However, a couple of years ago, he led the Bears to the Big 12 championship so he has played in big games and performed well. In Lebby’s veer-and-shoot offense, Shapen seems to be the perfect fit.
Fort Worth, Texas, USA; Baylor Bears offensive lineman Gavin Byers (58) and quarterback Blake Shapen (12) in action during the game between the TCU Horned Frogs and the Baylor Bears at Amon G. Carter Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Bounce Back Season?
The Bulldogs didn’t have a season to write home about. I give the athletic director credit for this situation. He moved quickly to hire Lebby which in turn allowed them to get a great quarterback from the portal. While Shapen is by no means the top quarterback, the Bulldogs were not going to land a Dante Moore. Shapen is a perfectly good quarterback who brings an upperclassman presence and big-game experience.
New Mississippi State HC Jeff Lebby spent the past two seasons as the offenswive coordinator for the Oklahoma Sooners. Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Jeff Lebby will have his hands full in his first season in the SEC. Every team in the SEC seems to have a gauntlet of a schedule so every game will be a battle.