Beau Pribula, the former backup quarterback of Penn State, has found his new football home at the University of Missouri after making the decision to enter the transfer portal earlier this month. Announced on Sunday, the move marks the beginning of Pribula's new chapter, as his commitment provides the Tigers with much-needed depth at the quarterback position following the graduation of their starter, Brady Cook.
Entering the portal on December 16, Pribula's decision captured considerable attention due to the timing overlapping with the College Football Playoff. While the Nittany Lions progressed to the playoffs, Pribula seized the chance to find a school where he could earn more playing time. According to Matt Zenitz from 247Sports, it was confirmed through the Tigers' official X account, solidifying the quarterback's new role.
Pribula, who stands 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighs 203 pounds, has showcased his potential over the past two seasons with the Nittany Lions, primarily serving as Drew Allar's backup. During his time at Penn State, he redshirted his freshman year, which allowed him to gain experience and grow without immediate game pressure. The Nittany Lions utilized Pribula creatively, often integrating him for specific plays—especially during red-zone opportunities—taking advantage of his running ability.
Statistically, Pribula has proven to be efficient, accumulating 571 rushing yards on 94 carries, with ten touchdowns to his name, averaging over six yards per attempt. Although he has only attempted 56 passes during his collegiate career, completing 66.1% of those and throwing for nine touchdowns against one interception, entering Missouri presents him with the challenge of being the main quarterback. The Tigers will put him directly against returning players Sam Horn and Drew Pyne for the starting position.
Mizzou’s quest for stability at the quarterback spot intensified after Cook, who played as the starting quarterback since 2021, played his final game against Iowa on December 30. Following the game, the Tigers will be without their long-time quarterback, making Pribula’s arrival notable for the team's future.
Horn, who underwent Tommy John surgery earlier this year, is progressing and expected to participate fully during spring practices, which could create competition among the Tigers' quarterbacks. Meanwhile, Pyne, a transfer from Notre Dame who started during the latter part of the 2024 season, also aims to claim the starting role. Adding to the competition, the Tigers signed four-star prospect Matt Zollers, set to arrive on campus soon.
The Tigers have been actively pursuing players from the transfer portal. By adding Pribula, they marked the twelfth transfer acquisition, highlighting their strategy to build depth across their roster. Missouri previously secured commitments from various other positions, seeking to bolster their competitiveness for the upcoming seasons.
Notably, Pribula had garnered interest from other programs, including Ole Miss, UCF, Iowa, and Indiana, all of which underscored the hurricane of options he faced. The choice to commit to Missouri was undoubtedly influenced by the school’s need for reliable quarterback options after Cook's departure.
With this pivotal transfer, expectations are high. The Missouri coaching staff will be closely analyzing Pribula to see if he can step up and run the offense successfully. His unique mix of rushing prowess and passing efficiency has caught the eye of analysts and fans alike, creating excitement for what lies ahead.
“It’s Beau time,” exclaimed Zenitz, capturing the sentiment surrounding his announcement and future at Missouri. With Pribula set to join the ranks of the Tigers, fans are left wondering how this former Nittany Lion will adapt to his new surroundings and whether he will thrive as the new face of the Mizzou offense.
