3 keys to a Mizzou victory over Alabama on Saturday

After an emphatic victory over Auburn last week with their backs against the wall, Mizzou football will look for a signature win on Saturday in Tuscaloosa.

The Tigers will be short-handed, though the full extent of their lineup remains uncertain. Starting quarterback Brady Cook and running back Nate Noel are both doubtful, and several other starters are currently listed as questionable, hoping to be cleared to play.

Given the circumstances, Mizzou will need to rely on a fast start to secure a win on Saturday. Here are three keys to a Tigers victory.

1. Scoring an early touchdown

With injuries piling up and an uphill battle ahead, it’s crucial that Mizzou avoids falling behind early. In their game against Texas A&M, the Tigers quickly found themselves in a 17-0 hole, having only three designed rushing plays to that point. To succeed on Saturday, Mizzou needs to control the tempo and score a touchdown early to build momentum. Whether on the ground or through the air, reaching the end zone will be essential—especially given the Tigers' struggles converting drives into touchdowns this season. While they’ve been effective moving the ball downfield, they’ve often had to settle for Blake Craig field goal attempts. An early touchdown would set the tone against an Alabama team that, by its standards, has been underwhelming.

2. Containing Ryan Williams

Ryan Williams, at just 17 years old, has been outstanding for Alabama this season. He’s already recorded 31 receptions for 649 yards and eight touchdowns. With Mizzou’s secondary dealing with multiple injuries, containing Williams will be a key focus in the game. Daylan Carnell, who had his best performance of the season last week against Auburn, will be one to watch to see if he can deliver a similar impact against Alabama’s star receiver. Mizzou's secondary has been prone to big plays all year and with Ryan Williams' big play ability, this matchup will be massive in deciding the outcome on Saturday.

3. Offensive line protection

Mizzou’s offensive line struggled against Texas A&M, repeatedly putting Brady Cook in difficult positions. Saturday presents a crucial opportunity for them to prove their capability against Alabama’s formidable defensive line, which averages just over two sacks per game. Whether it’s Cook or Drew Pyne under center, the priority remains the same: protect the quarterback. If Mizzou’s line can provide enough time for plays to develop, it will open up options for offensive coordinator Kirby Moore to call a more aggressive game plan—exactly the approach Mizzou needs, and it all starts with the offensive line’s performance.