No. 9 Missouri Tigers Dominate Buffalo in Big Win

© Denny Medley-Imagn Images

The No. 9 Missouri Tigers (2-0) hosted the University at Buffalo Bulls (1-1) for a late-evening matchup on Sept. 7, and the Tigers took care of business, displaying their balanced attack in a dominant 38-0 victory. Big-time performances on offense carried the team and set some exciting storylines in motion as the Southeastern Conference schedule moves forward.

The Tigers Offense

In the game, QB Brady Cook had a solid performance in the passing game, completing 28-of-36 attempts for 228 yards with 1 interception. He also impacted the running game, gaining 62 yards on 5 carries and scoring a touchdown. RB Nate Noel also had a productive day, rushing for 73 yards on 12 carries and adding a touchdown. Despite limited production, wide receiver Luther Burden III drew the opposing defense's attention, but he ended up with a rushing touchdown. His distractions created opportunities for wide receiver Theo Wease Jr. to shine. Wease made the most of these opportunities by making 13 receptions for 149 yards and capitalizing on single coverage throughout the game. Still, the run game is money and must continue to boast these numbers.

The Tigers Defense 

Defensively, the team maintained their strong performance from last week's game against the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers by securing another shutout and frustrating the Bulls' offense throughout the game, holding them to just 165 yards of total offense. Linebacker Corey Flagg stood out with 6 tackles, while defensive end Johnnie Walker made an impact with 2 tackles for loss and a sack.

The pass coverage was consistently excellent as the defense limited Buffalo's passing game to 55 yards all game, and safety Marvin Burks Jr. intercepted one pass and returned it for 15 yards. In totality, this was a complete game from the defense, and there is much in store for this unit.

Final Thoughts on the Tigers

The special teams performed adequately. Punter Luke Bauer had a good game. However, there are concerns about the kicking game as placekicker Blake Craig only made 1-of-3 field goal attempts. The Tigers will need more consistency from him in the future. Nevertheless, this was a great game for the Tigers as they continue to build toward the beginning of conference play.