Luther Burden III: Missouri's Star Receiver Dominates the Field in 2024

Luther Burden III: Missouri's Star Receiver Dominates...

By Jocelyn Alano August 04, 2024 06:50

Photo by Robert Cohen

One great wide receiver talent in college football is Luther Burden III from the University of Missouri. Over the years, Burden evolved as a player, and offers flooded in from far and wide for one of 2022's top-ranked prospects at his position.

Burden played well as a freshman in 2022, hauling in 375 yards and six touchdowns, but his star began to shine during the 2023 season, with 1,212 yards receiving and nine catches, which helped set up optimism for the junior campaign.

By the time 2024 rolled around, Burden was not just an important cog for Missouri; he either was or soon would be a primary piece of their offensive game plan. He was a speedster with nimble feet who could make plays and would help lead the Tigers as they had their sights set on being conference champions while he eyed becoming eligible for his first bowl game. Burden was as advertised, becoming a standout through the season and emerging from his obscure status to a potential NFL prospect.

Statistical Breakdown

Luther Burden III took over in 2024. Throughout the season, he put together great numbers reflecting how good of a player on the field:

Total Receptions: 86
Receiving Yards: 1,212
Touchdowns: 9
Yards Per Reception: 14.1
Targets: 122
Catch Rate: 70.4%

Their reliance on Burden to be the go-to player for their quarterback was a source of frustration because he showed an ability to make plays repeatedly. With 1,212 receiving yards and nine touchdowns, he was one of the most productive receivers across college football. One standout trait was Burden's ability to pile up yards after catch (YAC), which is undoubtedly why his constant 1-yard slant routes broke halves open and would frequently turn a short pass into an explosive play. It proved just how good he was and also spoke to his ascent of a route runner, someone who can easily create space from defenders.

Impact on the Team

Luther Burden III played a key role in the success of the Missouri Tigers 2024. This record was an exception, and his play helped lead them to 10-2, setting the stage for a final-week SEC title. Burden's playmaking was a constant ability, opening up the chance for Missouri to compete against some of the best teams in America. His leadership on and off the field eventually bred the winning culture into this program.

NFL Prospects

As the 2024 season wore on, Burden's draft stock took off. His size, speed, and ability to make plays inspired analysts who saw him play in college a national championship for the soon-to-be NFL first-rounder. Burden is 5-foot-11 and weighs in at a solid 208 pounds, which checks off the standard physical requirement that NFL teams keep an eye on when it comes to wide receiver—his 4.41-second, 40-yard-dash time enhanced that rep as a deep seam threat.

Strengths:

Route Running: Burden transitions his routes with good separation at all field levels.

YAC: Dangerous with the ball in his hands because he is tough to tackle and gets yards after the catch.

Catch Ability: His strong hands and high degree of body control make him a go-to guy for contested catches.

Luther Burden III always retained his talent, work ethic, and dedication during the 2024 season. His statistics and several performances have proven to influence his team's success. As the next chapter in his career approaches, be it as an NFL player or off the field somewhere else, Burden will always leave behind a legacy of both excellence and potential at Missouri.

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