As the college football season winds down, both Western Kentucky and Southern Miss find themselves in stable positions, yet face crucial questions regarding their quarterback situation heading into their New Orleans Bowl matchup. Both teams have secured bowl eligibility, but uncertainty under center could be a major factor in their postseason performance.

Western Kentucky's Quarterback Conundrum

Western Kentucky (8-4) finished the regular season with a loss to Jacksonville State, leaving questions about who will lead the offense in the New Orleans Bowl. Throughout the 2025 season, the Hilltoppers have navigated a shifting quarterback landscape. Veteran quarterback Maverick McIvor, who transferred to WKU from Abilene Christian, began the season as the starter. McIvor had a strong season at Abilene Christian in 2024, throwing for 3,828 yards and 30 touchdowns, earning him First-Team All-UAC honors. However, an injury to his left shoulder sidelined him, opening the door for redshirt freshman Rodney Tisdale Jr..

Tisdale stepped in, but his performance has been inconsistent. In a crucial game against Jacksonville State, with a spot in the conference title game on the line, Tisdale struggled, raising questions about whether he's the answer. Despite the availability of a healthy McIvor, the Hilltoppers stuck with Tisdale, a decision that ultimately "didn't pan out". Now, heading into the New Orleans Bowl, the starting quarterback position is once again uncertain.

Coach Tyson Helton faces a difficult decision. Does he go with the experienced McIvor, hoping he's fully recovered and can recapture his early-season form? Or does he stick with Tisdale, who has shown flashes of potential but lacks consistency? The answer to this question could determine WKU's success in the bowl game and set the tone for the program moving forward. Punter Cole Maynard was named a Consensus All-American, the first Hilltopper to receive the honor since 2009, providing a boost to the special teams unit.

Southern Miss Transitions with Change at Quarterback and Head Coach

Southern Miss (7-5) has also experienced quarterback challenges this season. Braylon Braxton, the presumed starter, has had an up-and-down year, showcasing both impressive performances and injury setbacks. In a game against South Alabama, Braxton threw for a season-high 400 yards and three touchdowns, demonstrating his potential. However, he also missed time due to injury, forcing Southern Miss to turn to backup Landry Lyddy.

Lyddy stepped in admirably, leading the Golden Eagles to scoring drives in a win against Arkansas State. However, the team is now coached by Blake Anderson. Anderson was named the program's 24th Head Coach on Dec. 11, after serving as the program's Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks Coach during the season. Southern Miss averaged 29.8 points per game during the regular season and allowed an average of 27.4 points per game.

The Golden Eagles have lost their last three games. Southern Miss will need solid quarterback play to turn things around. Whoever is under center will need to connect with key receivers like Micah Davis and Carl Chester. Running back Jeffery Pittman will also need to be a factor in the game.

Bowl Game Implications

The New Orleans Bowl presents an opportunity for both Western Kentucky and Southern Miss to end the season on a positive note. For WKU, it's a chance to secure their seventh consecutive bowl win under Coach Helton and continue their run as one of the most consistent non-Power Conference programs in the country. For Southern Miss, it's an opportunity to build momentum under interim head coach Blake Anderson and set the stage for a successful 2026 season.

Ultimately, the quarterback play will be a critical factor in determining the outcome. Which team can find stability and consistency under center will likely emerge victorious in the Big Easy.