USU's Keeton Named Rivals.com National Freshman of the Week

Utah State [University] football player Chuckie Keeton has been named the Rivals.com National Freshman of the Week for his performance Saturday [Sept. 3].

Keeton, a native of Houston, Texas (Cypress Creek HS), was 21-of-30 passing for 213 yards and added two rushing TDs as part of 33 rushing yards in his Aggie debut in USU's hard-fought 42-38 loss at defending national champion No. 23/19 Auburn Saturday. Keeton is believed to be the first Aggie freshman to start a USU season-opener in at least the modern era. Keeton is also the first Aggie freshman to start a game at QB since Riley Nelson in 2006.

"Chuckie is a special player," USU head coach Gary Andersen said in his post-game interview. "I promise you no one is hurt more, even though he has been with us for a short period of time. We are in very good hands at the quarterback position. ... I love Chuckie Keeton. I have loved Chuckie Keeton since I walked into his living room."

Andersen, Keeton and the Aggies host in-state foe Weber State in USU's home opener Saturday, Sept. 10, at 6 p.m. (MT) at Merlin Olsen Field at Romney Stadium. Saturday marks the first time that USU and WSU have squared off since 2001, and Utah State leads the all-time series, 11-1. The Aggie-Wildcat match-up will have special meaning for Andersen, who will be facing his mentor, Weber State head coach Ron McBride. Andersen played for McBride at Utah in 1985-86.

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