Michael Van Buren’s first throw didn’t go as planned.

After taking the shotgun snap, Van Buren faked a pitch to his left. Senior wide receiver Zavion Thomas , running from left to right, was open 10-15 yards downfield, and Van Buren recognized it.

But LSU’s sophomore quarterback missed Thomas, nearly throwing an interception as the ball was thrown at least a foot behind the receiver. It was an ominous start to a big day for the Mississippi State transfer.

One bad throw didn’t define Van Buren on Saturday against Arkansas, his first start as LSU quarterback in place of injured fifth-year senior Garrett Nussmeier. He finished the day completing 21 of 31 throws for 21 yards and a touchdown in LSU’s 23-22 win over Arkansas.

Saturday was Van Buren’s first start, but he might have earne

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