Southern Miss announced that redshirt sophomore quarterback John White will take the helm Thursday night against James Madison, replacing Landry Lyddy.
Key points
- John White replaces Landry Lyddy as Southern Miss starter for the James Madison game.
- Coach Blake Anderson has expressed confidence that White could be a two‑year starter.
- White boasts a record‑setting high‑school career and a focused offseason improvement.
- The matchup offers White a chance to showcase his dual‑threat abilities against a top Sun Belt opponent.
Southern Miss confirmed that redshirt sophomore quarterback John White will start Thursday night against James Madison, taking over from redshirt senior Landry Lyddy, according to multiple sources cited by Southern Miss Golden Eagles On SI.
The change arrives as the Golden Eagles ride a two‑game winning streak, though head coach Blake Anderson noted that Lyddy “didn’t have his best stuff” in those victories and that a dominant running game carried the team.
Coaching decision amid a winning streak
Anderson has long praised White’s dual‑threat skill set; early in the season he said he sees White as a potential two‑year starter and highlighted his “phenomenal” work ethic.
White comes from a standout high‑school career at Madison‑Ridgeland Academy, where he helped the Patriots win three consecutive MAIS Class 6A championships and set a state passing‑yardage record of 15,259 yards by the time he graduated in 2023.
White’s high‑school pedigree
After appearing in just one game in 2025, White spent the offseason honing his abilities, and his first start will test his mobility against a James Madison team that reached the College Football Playoff a year ago.
The contest is slated for 7 p.m. Central Time at Renasant Stadium, with a “blackout” theme encouraged for fans; a victory would push Southern Miss’s win streak to three games.
Implications for the Golden Eagles
While perfection is unlikely for a first‑time starter, White’s ability to extend plays with his legs could keep the Eagles’ ground attack humming and give the team a chance to make noise in the Sun Belt.
Reader questions
When is the Southern Miss vs James Madison game?
The game is scheduled for Thursday night at 7 p.m. Central Time at Renasant Stadium in Hattiesburg.
Who was the previous starting quarterback?
Redshirt senior Landry Lyddy started the previous two games before being replaced by John White.
What is John White’s background before joining Southern Miss?
White played at Madison‑Ridgeland Academy in Mississippi, leading the Patriots to three straight MAIS Class 6A championships and setting a state record with 15,259 passing yards.
Source: si.com
