A miserable start to the season for Mississippi State took another downward turn Saturday evening, as the team announced that starting quarterback Blake Shapen would miss the rest of the campaign with a shoulder injury that will require surgery.
“We’re all hurting for Blake after this unfortunate news,” Mississippi State head coach Jeff Lebby said. “Blake is the ultimate competitor and teammate and an unquestioned leader in our program. I know he will work incredibly hard to come back stronger than ever, and he will continue to serve as a team leader from the sidelines. We will support Blake every step of the way during his recovery process and explore all options to help him seek a medical hardship waiver to regain his lost year of eligibility.”
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Shapen had started all four games this season for the Bulldogs, completing 69% of his passes for 974 yards, 8 touchdowns, and only 1 interception. He had also rushed for 2 touchdowns. He left Saturday’s game with Florida in the fourth quarter, replaced by true freshman Michael Van Buren in State’s 45-28 defeat.
