Former Virginia QB Bryce Perkins transfer to Florida Atlantic University has dominated headlines lately, but the transfer of former Mississippi State QB Keytaon Thompson to FAU for his final season is also big news for the Owls.
Thompson brings a wealth of experience and talent to FAU, having started several games for the Bulldogs over the past two seasons. He was named the starter after an injury to Nick Fitzgerald in 2018, and when Fitzgerald returned healthy, Thompson was still able to earn playing time. In total, Thompson has thrown for 846 yards and eight touchdowns with four interceptions in his college career, and he’s also a threat with his legs, having rushed for 672 yards and 10 touchdowns.
At FAU, Thompson will be joining head coach Willie Taggart, who is known for his ability to develop and utilize mobile quarterbacks. Taggart has also stated that he envisions a dual-threat QB running his offense, and Thompson fits this mold perfectly. The two are likely to work together to craft an offensive scheme that will suit Thompson’s strengths and allow him to thrive.
For Thompson, the transfer to FAU is an opportunity to prove himself as a starting quarterback at the FBS level. He played behind Fitzgerald at Mississippi State, and while he did start several games, he was never able to fully establish himself as the team’s QB1. At FAU, he’ll have every opportunity to do just that, as there is currently no established starter on the roster. He’ll also be playing in a conference that is known for its high-scoring offenses, which should allow him to showcase his playmaking abilities.
For FAU, the addition of Thompson is a major coup, as he provides the team with a proven quarterback who can step in and lead the offense immediately. The Owls have always been a team that is known for its defense, but with Thompson under center, they may be able to field a more potent and balanced offense that will help them compete at a higher level.
In short, the transfer of Keytaon Thompson to FAU is an exciting development for both him and the Owls. Thompson brings a wealth of experience and talent to the table, and under the guidance of head coach Willie Taggart, he has the potential to reach new heights and help lead FAU to success in the future.
