Missouri football just secured a fascinating piece for its future: quarterback Beau Pribula, transferring from Penn State. If his story sounds familiar, that’s because it mirrors the path of one Will Levis, another former Nittany Lion backup who found stardom after transferring to Kentucky. Could Pribula replicate Levis’ rise to success?
Pribula, a former three-star recruit, entered Penn State with potential and a dynamic rushing ability that drew comparisons to Levis during his time in Happy Valley. Both players couldn’t topple entrenched starters—Sean Clifford for Levis, and Drew Allar for Pribula—but showed glimpses of brilliance when given opportunities to shine.
Pribula’s passing stats at Penn State highlight growth despite limited chances:
- 2023: 11 completions on 21 attempts for 149 yards, 4 touchdowns, 0 interceptions
- 2024: 26 completions on 35 attempts for 275 yards, 5 touchdowns, 1 interception
- Career totals: 424 passing yards, 9 touchdowns, 1 interception, 66.1% completion rate
Where Pribula really stands out is on the ground. Over two seasons, he racked up 571 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns on 94 carries, averaging 6.1 yards per attempt. His mobility adds a dimension that Missouri’s offense could thrive on, particularly in the ever-competitive SEC.
Levis followed a similar arc, putting up modest passing numbers and 473 rushing yards with 6 tds at Penn State before transferring to Kentucky. There is where he turned heads with his combination of arm strength and physicality. His breakout at Kentucky ultimately propelled him to a second-round NFL Draft pick, a trajectory Missouri fans are hoping Pribula can emulate.
The big question is whether Missouri’s system under Eli Drinkwitz can unlock Pribula’s full potential. While Levis landed in an offense tailored to his strengths, the Tigers must figure out how to balance Pribula’s dual-threat skills.
It’s no small task to rise to prominence in the SEC, but Pribula has a blueprint—and a chip on his shoulder. Missouri has taken a gamble, but if it pays off, they might just have the next Will Levis on their hands. Kentucky has a 7th year Zach Calzada primed to be their QB this year, and he too is hoping to follow Will's first season.