Ben King Emerges as Starting Quarterback for Minnesota State Mavericks

Ben King, a 6-1 senior from Marshfield, Wis., has emerged as the starting quarterback for the Minnesota State Mavericks football team, easing coach Jeff Jamrog's concerns about the position. King, who started at quarterback in 2003 and 2004, had taken time off to concentrate on baseball, but has impressed the coaching staff with his skills and dedication. The Mavericks are looking to rebound from a 2-9 record in 2005, but with King at the helm, they are optimistic about their chances.

Key Takeaways:

• Ben King, a 6-1 senior from Marshfield, Wis., has been named the starting quarterback for the Minnesota State Mavericks football team, after impressing coach Jeff Jamrog and offensive coordinator Dan Ragsdale with his skills and dedication.
• King, who passed for 3,922 yards and 24 touchdowns in his two seasons as starter, outdueled senior Josh Bryant for the starting position, showing that he is a strong contender for the position.
• The Mavericks are looking to rebound from a 2-9 record in 2005, but with King at the starting position, they are optimistic about their chances of improving their standing.
• King had taken time off from football to concentrate on baseball, but has returned to the sport with a renewed commitment, and has been able to practice regularly with the team.
• The Mavericks return 10 starters and 30 lettermen from last year's team, but are young, with 57 kids in their first or second year.
• Coach Jeff Jamrog is pleased with the team's attitude and work ethic this fall, and believes that they have made a commitment to improving their performance.

Statistics:

• Ben King passed for 3,922 yards and 24 touchdowns in his two seasons as starting quarterback for the Minnesota State Mavericks, before taking time off to concentrate on baseball.
• The Mavericks were picked to finish last in the NCC preseason poll, but are optimistic about their chances of improving their standing.
• The team returns 10 starters and 30 lettermen from last year's team.
• 57 kids on the team are in their first or second year, making the team young and potentially inexperienced.
• Coach Jeff Jamrog is pleased with the team's attitude and work ethic this fall, and believes that they have made a commitment to improving their performance.

Sources:

• "Mavericks' Ben King Is Ready to Lead", by Bob Hohenshelt, Mankato Free Press
• "Minnesota State Mankato Football", article on the team's website
• "College Football Preseason Poll", NCC preseason poll results.