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In the season's opening game, there is a great sense of hope and optimism for all teams. Last season doesn't matter, and every team has the chance to make progress toward its goals. The No. 11 Missouri Tigers are particularly optimistic, having won 11 games last season, finished in the top 10, and defeated the Ohio State Buckeyes in the Cotton Bowl Classic during the bowl season.
The Tigers have been very busy during the offseason, bringing in Transfer Portal players like cornerback Toriano Pride from Clemson. They've also added Marcus Carroll and Nate Noel from Georgia State and Appalachian State, respectively, to fill the void left by Cody Schrader, the leading rusher in the Southeastern Conference, who graduated and was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers. The Tigers return quarterback Brady Cook, who will look to build on a 3,000 passing-yard campaign. Additionally, he ran for more than 300 yards and scored 8 TDs. The connection with All-SEC wide receiver Luther Burden III is expected to be a constant, and both players are expected to have big seasons, likely leading the Tigers to some postseason games.
Breaking Down the Tiger's Opponent
Mizzou will be facing off against the Murray State Racers, a team from the Missouri Valley Football Conference in the FCS at 7 p.m. EST on Aug. 29 at Memorial Stadium/Faurot Field in Columbia, Mo. The Racers recently replaced their head coach and are now led by Jody Wright. They are in the process of rebuilding after losing 18 games over the last two seasons. Expect the Racers to come out with energy in this matchup, as it's a great opportunity for their star players to showcase their talent against a SEC opponent.
Tigers' Keys to Victory
The Tigers have to come and smash this opponent because they are vastly more talented than them. Having a team with nothing to lose hang around late will not look good in the eyes of decision-makers of the Associate Press Poll (AP) and College Football Playoff much later in the season. They have to destroy the Racers by playing their brand of football.
Get Burden the ball every way you can. Don't show your playbook because bigger games are ahead, but establish that he will be a key part of the game plan. This will open up other people to make plays, as the Racers will take him away.
Establishing the run is going to be the key to winning this game. Cook doesn't need to pass for 300-plus yards for the Tigers to win. He needs to be consistent and keep the ball moving down the field. Keeping the running backs fed consistently and often will force the Racers to adjust early, opening up some shots downfield.
Game Prediction
Mizzou wins big at home. There is too much talent, but you see some of Mizzou's weapons in action, which will give a glimpse into how the Tigers will fare against the tougher opponents of the SEC down the road.
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