Mississippi State’s Kamario Taylor Makes Dream Come True in Season Opener

STARKVILLE, Miss. — Kamario Taylor fulfilled a childhood dream Saturday night by starting at quarterback for Mississippi State in a season-opening 62-13 win against ULM, according to the university.

The local product from nearby Starkville grew up attending games at Davis Wade Stadium and envisioned playing on the field. Taylor connected on 22 of 34 passes for 354 yards and four touchdowns, adding 59 yards on six rushing attempts, including a 26-yard scoring run, the school said.

“I was a little nervous just because I hadn’t played football in a couple of months,” Taylor said. “But once I got out there, it was all fun and games. I trusted my coaches and teammates, and that made my game easier.”

MSU coach Jeff Lebby praised Taylor’s leadership and energy, noting he did a good job guiding the offense. Taylor initially missed on a deep throw on the first play but settled in quickly, leading the Bulldogs on a 10-play, 75-yard touchdown drive on their opening possession. The team scored on eight consecutive drives with Taylor at quarterback.

Lebby highlighted Taylor’s growth, especially in pocket presence and decision-making, areas he has worked on since the end of last season. Taylor said he focused on improving his mechanics and staying poised in the pocket during the offseason, which paid off in the opener.

Taylor spread the ball around, throwing scoring passes to four different receivers. Anthony Evans III finished with a career-high 118 yards receiving, while Marquis Johnson nearly reached 100 yards with 99 yards. Evans called Taylor “elite” and predicted he could win the Heisman Trophy someday.

Mississippi State returns to action next week as they continue their season, with Taylor’s debut marking a significant milestone for the program and the player’s personal journey.

Source: Original Article