Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Beau Pribula (9)
Missouri Tigers football has made its first major offseason move by securing one of the most coveted quarterbacks in the transfer portal: Beau Pribula. The former Penn State signal-caller, ranked No. 4 among top portal QBs by 247Sports, chose Mizzou over several suitors, including Iowa, Central Florida, and Ole Miss.
Pribula’s transfer was confirmed Sunday by his agency, Aurum Sports, via Matt Zenitz of 247Sports. The move comes at a pivotal time for head coach Eliah Drinkwitz and the Tigers, as they prepare to build on a 9-3 season and transition from outgoing quarterback Brady Cook.
Pribula’s Journey from State College to Columbia
Pribula’s decision to enter the transfer portal came just before Penn State’s College Football Playoff opener against SMU, a timing that sparked reactions across the Nittany Lions’ program. Penn State head coach James Franklin expressed disappointment but acknowledged the difficult situation facing Pribula.
“Beau Pribula did not want to leave our program… but the timing of the portal and the position of quarterback forced his hand,” Franklin said, per Athlon Sports. “When you play quarterback and there’s only one spot, and those spots are filling up, he felt like he was in a no-win situation.”
At Penn State, Pribula shared duties with starter Drew Allar but showed flashes of his dual-threat abilities. Over the 2024 season, he accounted for 19 total touchdowns—10 rushing and nine passing—despite limited opportunities. In an October victory over Wisconsin, Pribula completed 11-of-13 passes for 98 yards and a touchdown while adding 28 rushing yards, demonstrating his versatility.
Immediate Impact for Missouri
Pribula’s arrival fills a critical need for Missouri as they transition from Brady Cook, who completed his senior season in 2024. With Cook’s departure, the Tigers needed a quarterback who could step in immediately and lead a talented roster poised for another strong campaign.
Pribula brings a dynamic skill set that complements Drinkwitz’s offensive philosophy. His dual-threat capability—proven by his performance at Penn State—adds a new dimension to Missouri’s attack. The Tigers’ staff is undoubtedly excited about his potential to elevate the program in the competitive SEC.
A Strategic Offseason Addition
Pribula’s decision to join Missouri wasn’t made lightly. After entering the portal, he reportedly visited several programs, including UCF and Iowa, and had plans to visit Indiana before canceling that trip in favor of the Tigers.
The move underscores Missouri’s growing reputation as an attractive destination for top-tier talent, thanks to their 2024 success and a strong showing under Drinkwitz.
What’s Next for the Tigers
Missouri will wrap up their 2024 season in the Music City Bowl against Iowa on Dec. 30, but fans are already looking ahead to what Pribula’s presence means for the program in 2025.
With Pribula under center and a talented core returning, the Tigers are positioning themselves as a serious threat in the SEC. His dual-threat abilities, combined with a strong supporting cast, could make Missouri one of the most exciting teams to watch in the upcoming season.
As the Tigers roar into a new era with Beau Pribula at the helm, one thing is certain: the future in Columbia looks bright.
