Freshman quarterback Michael Van Buren gave Mississippi State fans hope for the future with his performance against No. 5 Georgia. Even though MSU lost to the Georgia Bulldogs, Van Buren shows a lot of promise for the future.
Van Buren made his first start just two weeks ago against the Texas Longhorns as a true freshman, going 12-for-23 for 144 yards and on touchdowns, but also no interceptions or turnovers either. The Maryland native, however, even in the loss, was able to put on quite a show Bulldogs nation znd give them hope for the future.
In the loss against Georgia, the young freshman threw for 306 yards on 20-of-37 passing and three touchdowns with just one interception. Even with the tough pressure of the Georgia offense, Van Buren looked as comfortable as he could be in the pocket with the front four bearing down on him.
Even with Georgia's stout defense breathing down his neck, Van Buren didn't show any sign of folding as he stayed in the pockets and took hits, but he also showed his ability to scramble to keep plays alive.
Van Buren's best touchdown pass came on his play to wide receiver Kelly Akharaiyi for 34 yards to bring the Bulldogs within 10 points, but unfortunately, it was a little too late with just under two minutes left in the fourth quarter.
However, Van Buren's play can be something to give Bulldog fans hope for the future, as he was the reason the Bulldogs were in the game with Georgia the entire time. Head coach Jeff Lebby has struggled this season Mississippi State falls to 1-5, and flipping Van Buren from Oregon to the Bulldogs this offseason could have been his best move as a head coach.