Southern Miss names Ethan Hampton starting quarterback for season opener

Southern Miss has named senior Ethan Hampton the starting quarterback for the 2026 season opener against Alcorn State. The game takes place today at Renasant Stadium with a 4 p.m. CT kickoff on ESPN+. Hampton earned the role following a three-way offseason competition against Landry Lyddy and John White. The 6-foot-3, 230-pound signal-caller is the only competitor in the group with prior starting experience, having started 10 games for Northern Illinois in 2024. Hampton previously dealt with a bone bruise in his hand sustained during an Aug. 15 scrimmage, but he returned to practice on Aug. 31. Following today's matchup, Southern Miss travels to face Auburn on Sept. 12.

• 2:35 AMYahoo Sports — Ethan Hampton named Southern Miss' starting QB for 2026 opener