Missouri Football: Tigers’ offense dominated No. 11 Florida’s defense
It took the Missouri Tigers almost three years under head coach Barry Odom, but on Saturday, Mizzou handed in its first win over a ranked opponent, No. 11 Florida.
To this point, the Tigers are weighing heavier in the win column by one game, after short-changing itself a week ago in a close, miserable loss to No. 11 Kentucky.
With the win over Florida, the Tigers are another game closer to becoming bowl eligible. The most recent projection from ESPN pits Mizzou against Duke in either the Music City Bowl, or the Belk Bowl.
Unlike its previous games – games prior to Kentucky, at least – the Tigers did not let up on Florida once they had established their lead. Quarterback Drew Lock made smart decisions with the ball, and Missouri welcomed its No. 1 receiving deep threat, Emanuel Hall, back to the field.
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Quarterback Drew Lock looked and played every bit the part of a first-round draft pick, as he set the SEC single-season record for passing touchdowns, while simultaneously moving to third place for career passing touchdowns in the SEC, Saturday in the swamp.
It could be argued that this win was not the signature win Odom required to plead his case to keep his job, as that signature game was last week. But once again, the beleaguered, often under-appreciated head coach motivated his team to give its all in a win that showed “great resolve.”
With tight end Albert Okwuegbunam and running back Tyler Badie nursing injuries after Saturday’s win, the Tigers will prepare for Saturday’s home contest against Vanderbilt with the hopes that either of the duo will return soon.
dark. Next. QB Kelly Bryant on Mizzou visit
The Tigers’ remaining schedule against Vanderbilt, Tennessee, and Arkansas is favorable. While Missouri could realistically have been sitting on a 7-2 record following Saturday’s win, Mizzou still has a chance to finish the season 8-4.