Kyler Murray will start at quarterback for Texas A&M when it hosts South Carolina on Saturday, the program announced.
Murray, a much-heralded true freshman, will replace sophomore Kyle Allen, who started the first seven games of the season for the Aggies, but has struggled mightily in recent weeks. A&M started the season 5-0, but dropped its last two games by double-digits to Alabama and Ole Miss at home. In those starts, Allen was a combined 32-of-74 (43 percent) for 351 yards, one touchdown and four interceptions.
Murray has appeared in five games this season. Overall, he’s 17-of-31 throwing for 167 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions. He’s also gained 92 yards rushing on 18 attempts.
When Allen was pulled during last weekend’s 23-3 loss to Ole Miss, Aggies head coach opted for Jake Hubenak, a junior college transfer, instead of Murray, who reportedly had a verbal sideline altercation with offensive coordinator Jake Spavital during the Alabama game.
However, heading into this week of practice, Sumlin decided to completely open up the quarterback competition, resulting in the selection of Murray as starter against the 3-4 Gamecocks.
Murray was a Rivals four-star recruit and rated as the No. 71 overall prospect in the 2015 recruiting class. During his career at Allen High in Allen, Texas, Murray compiled a 43-0 record and three state titles. He also earned the Gatorade national high school athlete of the year in 2015.
For more Texas A&M news, visit AggieYell.com.
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