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Missouri Tigers running back Cody Schrader wins the 2023 Burlsworth Trophy. He beats out James Madison noseguard James Carpenter and Oklahoma wide receiver Drake Stoops for the award. The trophy is given to the best player who began their FBS collegiate career as a walk-on. The former Truman Bulldog, the former walk-on, and the St. Louis, Missouri local kid earned his flowers, and he may not be done earning accolades.
A Senior Season to Remember
Schrader is also a Doak Walker Award finalist, given to the nation's best running back. He is in contention with Oklahoma State back Ollie Gordon II and North Carolina back Omarian Hampton. This award will be presented on December 8th on ESPN, and Schrader certainly makes his case. There's a big reason he won the Burlsworth as well, Schrader has had a generational, record-breaking performance for Missouri.
Schrader has rushed for 247 carries, 1,489 yards, a 6.0 yd/carry average, and 13 touchdowns. He is the SEC leader and is 3rd overall in total rushing yardage this year, and has been a criminally overlooked part of this explosive Missouri offense that features All-American wide receiver talent in Luther Burden III and Theo Wease. Schrader has been incredibly productive this year, and to those who have been watching him since his days at Lutheran South High School and NAIA Truman State, it's no surprise. You can read more on Every True Son's, truest son here.
Conclusion - Cody Schrader
Schrader is certainly deserving of this award and has done enough to win the Doak Walker as well. A tough, gritty, perseverant kid who fits the mold of bell-cow back and spiritual leader of the Missouri Tiger program, he emulates the spirit of Brian Burlsworth through and through. He has made the city of St. Louis, his former alma mater of Truman State, and the entire state of Missouri very proud, and will become a staple in the backfield of a very lucky NFL team come 2024.
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