OCTOBER 2022 21
where incumbent and eventual all-time SEC
leader in rushing yards by a quarterback,
Nick Fitzgerald, had a firm grip on the start-
ing quarterback job.
Despite seeing limited time, Thompson
found a way to make an impact as a true
freshman, appearing in 10 games including
one memorable start. Fitzgerald suffered an
injury in the first quarter of the Egg Bowl, the
annual rivalry game between Mississippi State
and Ole Miss. Thompson filled in valiantly for
the remainder of the game, racking up 316
yards of total offense and 2 touchdowns . He
nearly led State to a fourth-quarter comeback
victory before falling 31-28 in Starkville.
The injury to Fitzgerald thrust Thompson
into action for its next game, the TaxSlayer
Bowl in Jacksonville, Fla. The bowl would not
only be played without Fitzgerald, but Mullen
left for the University of Florida to become
the Gators' head coach.
Despite the turmoil surrounding the Mis-
sissippi State program, Thompson delivered
the best performance of his young colle-
After his grad transfer to UVA and conversion to wide receiver,
Thompson led the Cavaliers with 78 receptions and 990 yards
receiving in 2021. The do-it-all performer also added 247
rushing yards and 4 touchdowns a year ago. (Photo by Pete
Emerson/courtesy UVA)
