With SEC Media Days in the rearview mirror, it's time to take a look at whats to come in the 2024 season. Mizzou had a great showing at their media day, with their star receiver, Luther Burden, answering to the press. Burden's expectation for this season are higher than ever before thanks to a multitude of reasons.
Ranging from another year in the same system, to still having "something to prove," there is plenty of fuel adding to Burden's fire. The 20-year-old phenom has revolutionized Mizzou's football program, helping win a number of recruits over the past year. A native of St. Louis, Burden set a precedent of Missouri's top prospects "staying home," and committing to Mizzou.
""I felt like, before I got there, the state was kind of dry. I felt like my impact with going there could have changed the whole scenario of the whole reputation of the Missouri Tigers. I'm still continuing to work, still continuing to try to change that, and I'm trying to put us on top.""Luther Burden
One thing on the brain for #Mizzou star Luther Burden these days ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/UkR14HgSOD
— Nathalie Jones (@NathalieABC17) July 16, 2024
Heading into the upcoming season, Burden has set standards for himself and the program. His confidence can be a game changer, and there's definitely no lacking in that area of his game.
""When I get the ball, I get ready to go. Yeah, it definitely helped build my confidence, getting me the ball early, getting me going. It helped our team tremendously... I felt like, before I got there, the state was kind of dry. I felt like my impact with going there could have changed the whole scenario of the whole reputation of the Missouri Tigers. I'm still continuing to work, still continuing to try to change that, and I'm trying to put us on top.""Luther Burden
It is impossible to argue with Burden and his mindset of being the best receiver in the country. In his sophomore campaign, he led the team in yards (1,212), catches (86), and touchdowns (9). He earned first team All-SEC, and second team All-American honors, awarded by the associated press. Burden will only look to improve on those outstanding numbers in 2024.
Burden believes he is the best player in the country, and when you have that mindset, it's nearly impossible to stop someone with his skillset. When you pair that with a ton of returning talent around him, the team is set up for success. He'll look to embrace the target on his back and help contribute to the team in any possible way.