No. 7 Missouri Tigers Survive Vanderbilt in Double OT

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The Missouri Tigers (4-0) were up and down on Sept. 21 but survived in beating the Vanderbilt Commodores 30-27 in double overtime. Missouri freshman kicker Blake Craig came through when it mattered most, making the game-winning field goal from 37 yards out in the second overtime. Craig had missed three field goals in the game before getting a chance to redeem himself.

The first Southeastern Conference games are both fun and dangerous because no one wants to start conference play with a loss. Anyone watching this game can see that emotions were high and Vanderbilt is not an SEC bottom feeder anymore. Vanderbilt head coach Clark Lea has built his program and players to believe and fight in games. Vanderbilt did have a chance to keep the game moving into a third overtime. But Commodores kicker Brock Taylor missed a 31-yarder, giving Missouri the victory.

Looking at the Tigers and Their Offense 

The game's standout player was Missouri running back Nate Noel, who had 27 carries for 199 yards. Noel's work kept the Tigers in the game late. Although not as accurate as usual, quarterback Brady Cook completed 23 out of 37 passes for 226 yards and 2 touchdowns, including a crucial one in overtime. Luther Burden III was a key player, facing double- and triple-coverage but leading the Missouri offense with 6 catches for 76 yards and 2 touchdowns. The Tigers' offense was well-balanced, but the Commodores' defense proved challenging, limiting the passing game.

Eyeing at the Missouri Tigers on Defense 

Missouri's defense showed vulnerabilities in the run-pass-option game as it was hit for many yards on the ground, specifically by Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia.

Pavia's 84 rushing yards and 2 passing touchdowns kept the Commodores within striking distance until the end. Safety Marvin Burks Jr. was all over the field with 12 tackles. But this was a total team effort as there were six players with 5 or more tackles. Coming into the game, the scouting report was to limit Pavia's running, making Vanderbilt easier to beat. The Tigers could not do so, which is one reason that the game was close.

Final Thoughts 

The Tigers had a challenging game against the Commodores, struggling with their kicking game and some questionable coaching decisions. Craig's overall performance was not outstanding. He was 3-for-6 in the kicking game on Sept. 21. Being a young kicker in college is tough, but he will improve with time. Craig has potential and the Tigers will need him as the season progresses. It was a great team win for Mizzou as they improved to 4-0. This victory will give them momentum as they face more formidable opponents in the future.