SEC Media Day representatives set for Mississippi State
One week away from the Annual SEC Media Days in Dallas, Texas, Mississippi State has its representatives for the event.
First-year head coach Jeff Lebby has selected quarterback Blake Shapen, offensive lineman Albert Reese and linebacker John Lewis to join him in the Lone Star State. It’s a chance for State fans to hear from Shapen for just the second time since his arrival.
Shapen was made available to media at the Manning Passing Academy last month, but the Baylor transfer had not spoken to State’s media during the spring.
It’s a big offseason for Shapen as he prepares to take over the QB position for the Bulldogs. Despite dealing with some injuries in his first three years in Waco, Shapen had consecutive seasons of over 2,000 yards. His best year came in 2022 when he threw for 2,790 yards, 18 touchdowns and 10 interceptions while completing 63% of his passes.
Last year, Shapen had 2,188 yards, 13 TD and three interceptions in just eight games played.
Reese will be tasked with protecting Shapen and could end up at a couple of different positions. He’s worked at left guard, right guard and right tackle and brings an NFL skill set to the table this season. Reese had a nice step in forward in the spring in terms of leadership and is looking to become a full-time starter for the first time.
The same can be said for Lewis as he enters year four with the Bulldogs. The rising redshirt junior is among the most talented LB on the team but will look to prove himself with more reps this season. Lewis had 20 tackles last season, but his spring showed that this new coaching staff is relying heavily on him making a big jump.
Lebby and his trio of players will take the stage at the Omni Hotel on Wednesday, July 17, with Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer, Florida’s Billy Napier and Texas’ Steve Sarkisian.
