Listed at 5' 10", Tyson was not recruited following a standout high school career at nearby Columbus High School. After a two-year career at junior college, he still received no scholarship offers. He walked on at Mississippi State and became the team's starting quarterback in week five of the 2008 season. Since being given that opportunity, Tyson has started the last 19 games for Mississippi State. He has already reached the school's top 10 list in career attempts, completions and passing yards. He's also the school record holder in completion percentage.