Oct 242 min read

Alabama Hosts Missouri in Ranked SEC Battle

No. 15 Alabama Crimson Tide (5-2, 2-2 Southeastern Conference) will face No. 21 Missouri Tigers (6-1, 2-1) at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Ala., at 3:30 p.m. EST on Oct. 26.

Alabama is returning home after a 24-17 loss at No. 7 Tennessee (6-1, 3-1), while Missouri is coming off a thrilling 21-17 comeback win against Auburn (2-5, 0-4). Both teams were expected to be SEC contenders and possible College Football Playoff candidates, making this a crucial game. This will be the eighth meeting between the programs, with Alabama leading the series 5-2.

Key Players: Alabama

Jalen Milroe, Quarterback

Milroe has 1,722 passing yards, ranking fifth best in the SEC, and has 13 passing touchdowns, fourth-most in the conference. However, he has struggled in his last four games, throwing more interceptions than touchdowns. Milroe will need to improve to get Alabama on track.

Ryan Williams, Wide Receiver

The 17-year-old freshman has racked up 649 receiving yards, second in the SEC, and leads the conference in receiving touchdowns. Williams has caught a touchdown in every game but one and has become one of Milroe's primary targets.

Key Players: Missouri

Luther Burden III, Wide Receiver

Burden has 447 receiving yards, second best for Missouri, and leads the team in touchdown receptions. While his numbers haven't met preseason expectations, he remains a key offensive weapon for the Tigers.

Chris McClellan, Defensive Tackle

McClellan has the third most tackles on this Missouri defense that gives up the fourth-fewest points and allows the third-fewest yards per game in the SEC. He also has the second most sacks on the team and will need to pressure Alabama's Milroe to disrupt their offense.

Trends to Watch

Alabama has lost two of its last three games and will enter November with two losses for the first time since 2007. This game is crucial for Alabama and first year head coach Kalen DeBoer, as a loss could put their CFP hopes in jeopardy.

Missouri starting quarterback Brady Cook is listed as doubtful for the game. If Cook is unable to play, the Tigers will rely on quarterback Drew Pyne. A road win against Alabama would keep the Tigers in the SEC Championship race and would strengthen their CFP chances.