Ethan Hampton named Southern Miss' starting QB for 2026 opener

Southern Miss has chosen senior Ethan Hampton as its starting quarterback for the team's 2026 opener against Alcorn State, according to a report by ESPN's Pete Thamel on September 4. The decision came after Hampton emerged victorious in a three-player quarterback battle, which included senior Landry Lyddy and sophomore John White throughout the offseason.

Hampton previously played for Northern Illinois, where he started 10 games in 2024, including the program's first scrimmage of the season. He suffered a bone bruise in his hand during that first scrimmage, forcing him to miss the subsequent scrimmage and several practices. Hampton recovered from the injury and was back in practice by August 31.

In 2024, Hampton was Northern Illinois' starting quarterback, throwing for 1,600 yards, 12 touchdowns, and six interceptions. His most notable performance was against Notre Dame, where he led the Huskies to a road victory. Hampton transferred to Illinois in 2025 but only appeared in two games.

With prior starting experience among the three competitors, Ethan Hampton is the only quarterback with that distinction. Southern Miss will host Alcorn State at Renasant Stadium for the 2026 season opener, which is scheduled to kick off at 4 p.m. CT on ESPN+.