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Following breakout game, Ward has no plans to red-shirt as true freshman at MSU

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Steven Ward reports he has every intention to bypass a possible redshirt season this fall and again suit up for Missouri State’s trip this weekend to North Dakota State, as well as the Bears’ remaining games.

Ward has played in four of MSU’s six games. Under NCAA rules, a football player can see action in a maximum of four games, before opting to red-shirt.

“I have got mixed opinions from others about my choice to redshirt or not,” Ward said. “I feel like since I am doing so well it would be in my best interest to continue to play, even if it is only on special teams. It will get me ahead of the game and be ready for the speed of college football. It will help me carry over my skills to next year, when I play on defense.”

Ward has made quite a splash as a true freshman. The 2021 Nixa grad forced two fumbles in the Bears’ 37-7 Homecoming win over Indiana State last weekend.

Ward’s forced fumbles came on back-to-back kickoffs and inside the MSU 25-yard line, setting up two Bears touchdowns.

MSU led 10-0 prior to Ward making a profound impact on the proceedings.

“The game was starting a little slow, but we started to pick it up and then we had those two big turnovers, which changed the whole game,” Ward said. “It was over from that point.”

The Missouri Valley Conference recognized Ward’s efforts by naming him the league’s Special Teams Player of The Week.

“It’s awesome to earn the Player of The Week (award), especially as a freshman,” he said.

Ward had already received confirmation he made the right choice to follow his father’s lead and sign with MSU. His father played for the Bears from 1993-1995.

“Things are going great,” Ward said. “The coaches and teammates help me stay motivated.”

Ward, whose work in the weight room was renowned at Nixa, is enjoying being around like-minded teammates not afraid to push themselves.

“It has given me a new appreciation for the sport, seeing what kind of work you have to put in to play at the next level,” he said.


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