Oklahoma WR Deion Burks explains why Michigan game will be ‘personal.’
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As No. 15 Michigan prepares to face off against No. 18 Oklahoma in the highly anticipated Week 2 matchup, emotions are running high, especially for one Oklahoma Sooner.
For Deion Burks, this game is not just another contest. It’s personal.
Growing up in Inkster, Michigan, 40 minutes from Ann Arbor. Burks was immersed in a culture of blue and maize from an early age. Despite his deep-rooted desire to don the wolverine jersey, he found himself overlooked by a program that represents his home state.
Coming out of Belleville High School in Michigan, Burks faced challenges as an undersized slot receiver. Then Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh favored taller receivers, leaving him feeling sidelined as he was passed over for larger prototypes. This perceived slight has fueled Burks ambition throughout his college career and now serves as motivation as he gears up for the pivotal game against the team that wanted to dismiss him.
“They say that the best players stay in Michigan,” Burks said this week, per Sooner Scoop. “I guess I’m not one of those best players they were shooting for, but I’m just excited to go play them.”
Michigan may have overlooked him at one point, but they can no longer ignore the talent that Burks has developed since joining Oklahoma. During last weekend’s season-opener, he showcased his skills with 7 receptions for 88 yards and a touchdown, including an impressive one-handed catch along the sideline that went for 28 yards, making it his longest reception of the night.
“Can’t wait until they come in,” the former Purdue wideout said. “I’m from Michigan, so it’s definitely personal for me. Played them twice; definitely a nice team.”
Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET on ABC, with the Sooners listed as a 5-point favorite at bet365.
Lee Ann joins the Saturday Down South team, bringing over fifteen years of experience covering the SEC as both a sports journalist and football scout. With her keen eye for talent, she has also flexes her skills as the Director of Recruiting for the Rebel Walk( Ole Miss) Herring, is a staff writer at USA Today Sports Wildcats Wire, where she dives into the thrilling world of Kentucky football and basketball. When fall rolls around, you can catch her on air as an analyst for the Wake up 502 College Football Show on Big X Sports Radio 96.1 FM—because who doesn't love a good game day chat? A proud Brown University alum, Lee Ann balances her time between the sidelines and press box with her passion for coaching her boys' youth lacrosse and savoring a fine glass of bourbon alongside a good cigar. So, whether she's dissecting plays or rallying the next generation of athletes, Lee Ann is your spirited insider ready to tackle all things SEC!
