Southern Miss confirmed reports late Friday afternoon that named sophomore Keon Howard as its starting quarterback versus Kentucky in the team’s season-opener Saturday at M.M. Roberts Stadium.
Howard, who played at Laurel High School and led the program to its third state title in school history back in 2014, battled former Itawamba quarterback Kwadra Griggs for the position all throughout the offseason and into fall practice.
The former Laurel QB started the 2016 season for Southern Miss as a redshirt freshman. His redshirt was later pulled when senior quarterback Nick Mullens and backup Parker Adamson both went down with injuries against Charlotte on Nov. 5.
In four game appearances, Howard went 22-of-50 throwing the ball for 365 yards and one touchdown.
He eclipsed the 10,000 yard mark in his stellar career at Laurel. Howard finished his senior season at Laurel with 3,317 yards through the air and 43 TD passes.
“The Laurel family is proud of Keon,” said Laurel head coach Todd Breland. “He is great competitor and will do great representing the Southern Miss program.”
Kickoff against Kentucky is slated for 3 p.m.
