Ty Keyes was never late for a workout or practice according to Taylorsville head coach Mitch Evans. It was only fitting that on one of Keyes’ biggest days a golden bow tie would ultimately make him a few minutes late to his signing day. Just like on the gridiron, Keyes conquered the bow tie and signed his LOI to play for Southern Mississippi on National Early Signing Day.
“You all know the accolades he has,” said Evans introducing Keyes. “He’s a phenomenal player on the field and an even better person off the field.”
“I just want to thank God today. Without Him, none of this would be possible,” stated Keyes after signing. “I found a new home at Southern Miss and I want to help lead them to a championship.”
Keyes who had committed to the University of Tulane flipped his commitment to Southern Miss days after the Golden Eagles announced the hiring of new head football coach Will Hall. Hall was the offensive coordinator at Tulane and had recruited Keyes heavily while with the Green Wave.
Keyes said Hall’s hiring was instrumental in signing with Southern Miss.
“Me and coach Hall have a good relationship. I wanted to play for him. We have had a bond since day one. When I saw he went to Southern Miss, I wanted to make that my home too. The offense will be good under coach Hall. I love the way he approaches the game and his gameplan. I want to be there this spring to watch the offense and see how I fit in.”
The four-year starter at Taylorsville finished his career at Taylorsville with 14,565 passing yards and 155 touchdown passes. He also rushed for 22 touchdowns and 1,860 yards rushing. Keyes’ accolades include three State Championships, four-straight District and South State Championships, and a three-time Mr. Football award winner.
Keyes also discussed how he wanted to help coach Hall bring in more local talent from around the area to help lead the Golden Eagles.
“Coach Hall wanted me to help recruit some of these guys around here to Southern Miss, so I’ve been texting guys. We’ve been trying to get other guys to Southern Miss because we know it’s a great program and we want to win right away.”
“This program has supported me since day one,” said Keyes about his time at Taylorsville. “When people get down, we and the coaching staff rally together to lift them up. I’m going to be taking that to Southern Miss.”
