Rutgers Coach Calls Long Valley's Burton a 'Throwback Player' and 'Leader'

When Michael Burton graduated West Morris Central in 2010, he left his mark on the football field and in the annals of Wolfpack football history.

And when he walked on to the Rutgers University Scarlet Knights football field, he knew hard work and determination would be necessary to stay there.

Fast forward to Burton’s final season, about to begin at the end of August, and he’s nothing short of the team’s leader with a legitimate shot to play at professional level.

Rutgers coach Kyle Flood called Burton a “throwback player” in a recent report by nj.com, because of his hard-nosed running and blocking style as the Scarlet Knights’ fullback.

While at West Morris Central, Burton rushed his way into the history books as the team’s top tailback, obliterating the single-season rushing yards mark with 1,767 in 2009 – 275 more yards than his closest counterpart. Burton also holds the second and third places for most touchdown in a single game with five. He capped his high school career with a championship against Passaic Valley.

Burton told nj.com that he has tried to model himself after a former Scarlet Knight who inserted himself into the University’s record books, Brian Leonard.

Flood called Burton a “do-everything fullback” who blocks well, catches the ball out of the backfield and runs well, the report said. Flood hailed the Long Valley native for his ability to lead as well.

Rutgers first game of the season is Aug. 28 at Washington State at 10 a.m. Eastern Standard Time.