Intended to serve as a backup in his rookie season, Prescott became the Cowboys’ starting quarterback after original starter Tony Romo was injured in the preseason. He earned recognition during the year for his on-field success, which included helping the team clinch the top seed in their conference.
Prescott set several rookie quarterback records and was named the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, and also earned a Pro Bowl selection.
Prescott was redshirted as a true freshman with Mississippi State in 2011. As a backup to Tyler Russell in 2012, he played in 12 games. He completed 18-of-29 passes for 194 yards with four touchdowns and no interceptions. He also scored four rushing touchdowns with 110 yards on 32 carries.
Prescott began as the backup to Russell again in the 2013 season but took over as the starter when Russell suffered a concussion. He played in 11 games, completing 156-of-267 passes for 1,940 yards with 10 touchdowns and seven interceptions.
He also ran for 829 yards on 134 carries with 13 touchdowns. He was the MVP of the 2013 Liberty Bowl after leading the Bulldogs to a 44–7 win over the Rice Owls.
His 2013 season performance ranks seventh in passing yards (1,940), tied for fifth in rushing touchdowns (13), and fourth in total yards (2,769) and total touchdowns (23). Following the season he was named to the 2013 SEC Fall Academic Honor Roll.