yahoo
The Oklahoma Sooners are gearing up for a tough road test against Mississippi State in Starkville, and the potential return of quarterback Kamario Taylor is adding a new layer of intrigue to the SEC clash. According to On3's Pete Nakos, Taylor, a breakout star in 2026, is "trending in the right direction" ahead of Saturday's game, which would significantly change the dynamics of the matchup.
Without Taylor in Week 7, the Bulldogs were shut out at LSU, highlighting his importance to the offense. With him under center, Mississippi State posted a 4-1 record and averaged 39 points per game. Taylor has completed 66.2% of his passes for 290 passing yards per game, 17 touchdowns, and just four interceptions. He has also added 159 rushing yards (208 without sacks) and a touchdown on the ground.
Taylor's dual-threat ability makes him a complete quarterback who can hurt defenses through the air and on the ground. However, he has been battling a lower-body injury since the Alabama game. In the loss to the Crimson Tide, his mobility was limited, but he remained effective as a passer. How he moves will significantly affect what the Bulldogs want to do offensively.
Key Analysis
If Taylor is limited, it takes away a threat in the run game for the Oklahoma defense to deal with. Still, his ability to throw the ball and put points on the board could put pressure on Oklahoma's offense to try and keep up. The Sooners will need to monitor his injury designation on the Friday and game-day availability reports, but it appears they will have to face one of the best quarterbacks in college football on Saturday in Starkville.
Originally reported by yahoo.