Mississippi State transfer QB Michael Van Buren commits to LSU

Former Mississippi State quarterback Michael Van Buren has committed to LSU, via the NCAA Transfer Portal, per On3’s Hayes Fawcett. Van Buren was a true freshman this season at Mississippi State.

Van Buren played in 10 games in his lone campaign in Starkville, completing 55% of his passes while throwing for 1,886 yards, 11 touchdowns and seven interceptions. Van Buren announced his decision to enter the transfer portal on Dec. 10 with a heartfelt statement.

“Mississippi State faithful, you all have embraced me, supported me and nurtured me both academically and athletically in our short time together,” Van Buren wrote. “My family and I are forever thankful to coach (Jeff) Lebby, the staff, my teammates, the administrative team and the professors for their contributions to my growth as an individual.

“For the past year, we have worked arm in arm to generate some memorable moments in coach Lebby’s first year, and I am confident there is more greatness to come from the program. After a lot of consideration, prayer and consultation with my family, I have decided to enter my name into the transfer portal with three years of eligibility left.”

Van Buren played high school football at St. Frances Academy (MD), where he was a four-star prospect. He ranked as the No. 385 overall prospect in the 2024 class, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. 

He also ranked as the nation’s No. 24 quarterback and No. 12 recruit in Maryland. 

Michael Van Buren was forced to take over as starting quarterback for the Bulldogs this year after Blake Shapen went down with a season-ending injury. He had his best game of the year against a stout Georgia defense, erupting for 306 passing yards and three touchdowns compared to one interception. 

Now, Van Buren will look to produce similar performances at LSU. Head coach Brian Kelly has turned LSU into a premier destination for young QBs. In 2023, LSU had the No. 1 offense in the nation. This season, LSU averaged 315.3 passing yards per game, the eighth-most in the country.

On3’s Chandler Vessels contributed to this article.