Mississippi State quarterback Michael Van Buren, Jr., has been named SEC Co-Freshman of the Week after a strong outing against No. 5 Georgia.
Even though Mississippi State lost 41-31, Van Buren’s electric play helped keep the Bulldogs in the game. His first breakout performance since taking over for injured starter Blake Shapen included 306 yards on 20 of 37 passing with three touchdowns and one interception. He added 15 yards on the ground on five carries.
🏈 SEC Freshman Player of the Week: WK 7
🐶 Michael Van Buren@HailStateFB x #SECFB pic.twitter.com/Y9jwyBeQPD
— Southeastern Conference (@SEC) October 14, 2024
Van Buren, who shares the weekly honor with Tennessee defensive back Boo Carter, was recruited to Starkville as a four-star signal-caller out of Baltimore St. Frances Academy in Maryland. Originally committing to play for Oregon, Van Buren flipped to play for Mississippi State upon the news that Jeff Lebby would be hired as head coach.
While Van Buren found his first rushing touchdown a week prior against No. 1 Texas, his three passing touchdowns were his first career touchdowns through the air.
Mississippi State will return to action on Saturday when the team hosts No. 14 Texas A&M at 3:15 p.m. CT.
