Solid showing at MSU for Bench

Before the camp circuit got underway, Cairo (Ga.) 2012 quarterback prospect Steven Bench held offers from Rice, South Alabama, Georgia State, Samford and Jacksonville State. But following his recent performances, that list of offers could increase as the season grows longer.

Earlier this week, the 6-foot-2 and 205-pound Bench displayed his skills at Mississippi State's camp and did so at a high level.

"It was great at Mississippi State," said Bench. "They treated me great and I felt I did really good in practice. I felt like I put on a good show.

"And so far, I've been to Alabama, UAB and now Mississippi State. I am going to Georgia (Saturday) and then go to Vanderbilt (Sunday)."

And Bench added that he left Starkville with a lot of encouraging words thrown his way by MSU head coach Dan Mullen and offensive coordinator Les Koenning.

"I got great feedback from Coach Koenning and Coach Mullen," said Bench, who threw for 803 yards and six scores last year and also rushed for 693 yards and four touchdowns. "They told me I was one of the top guys on their recruiting board. They told me they would definitely be in touch and Coach Koenning said he would be recruiting me and that they should know more in a week.

"They've been talking to me of late and wanted me to come there one time this summer. Since it is a far drive, I can't make it back for July but they want me back this fall to watch some of their games. And I loved the fact that everyone seems like a close-knit family. Everyone is so nice and seemed to be on the same page."

With a good overall impression of the Bulldogs, Bench said a possible MSU offer could be an eye-opening offer.

"That would be great," said Bench. "Mississippi State is in the SEC and they are an up and coming program. So yeah, an offer from them would be great and it could lead to great things. After my visit there, they are definitely one of my favorite schools."