Published Jan 1, 2017
Florida State pledge Laborn notches UA Game MVP award
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Woody Wommack  •  Rivals.com
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Even though his team didn’t come away with the victory, Rivals100 Florida State running back commit Khalan Laborn didn’t leave Sunday’s Under Armour All-America Game empty-handed. The nation’s No. 40 overall player earned MVP honors for his squad after rushing for 74 yards and a touchdown on just eight carries.

“It means a lot to me to get this honor,” Laborn said after the game. “This is more than just about me; this was about coming out and representing for everyone who has supported me and helped me and stayed by my side and helped me get to this level.”

Laborn has become a bit of a forgotton man in the last week, especially after Florida State landed a commitment from five-star running back Cam Akers. But his showing on Sunday quickly reminded Florida State fans that they have more than one elite running back to fill Dalvin Cook's shoes.

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“Laborn was even better than I expected. His ability to make something out of nothing and his speed around the edge was very impressive,” Rivals.com National Recruiting Director Mike Farrell said. “He's more powerful than I've seen him, but his true gift is his vision and speed.”

Laborn was playing behind an offensive line loaded with talent, and he said they also deserve an assist for his big day.

“That’s a special group of guys,” Laborn said. “They’re monsters and it helped a lot to have guys like that opening holes for me.”

Despite rumors this week that Laborn might take a look around after Akers' commitment, he said he has no plans to visit elsewhere and is looking forward to pairing with Akers to break records in Tallahassee.

“I showed the fans a little preview of what I can bring to Florida State,” Laborn said. “I can’t wait to get down there and get to work.”