The Tigers are currently sitting at 16-7 overall and firmly planted on the bubble for an NCAA Tournament bid. With eight games remaining, all quad 1 and 2, it's likely that winning at least four in some form or fashion punches their ticket. But which four would be the most likely for Missouri to take home an ever valuable victory? Let's take a look.
The Tigers next opportunity to play also might be one of their best chances at a win. Mizzou will take on Texas A&M tomorrow, but the Aggies aren't without some major flaws. While A&M is 7-3 in the SEC this season, they also have some bad losses that rival those of the Tigers, including a 19-point loss to Florida just days ago. They also have double-digit losses to UCF, Oklahoma State and SMU. The Aggies boast six players averaging double-figures, and are a well-rounded squad, but Shawn Phillips could be the key for the Tigers taking advantage of their small lineup.
The very next game at Texas is also a very winnable one for Mizzou. The Longhorns are another team fighting for a bubble spot, and are enjoying a nice three-game win streak. Missouri is 12-3 at home this season, though, and Texas will be coming off a week long break and could show some signs of rust on the road.
Things start to get rough in the back half of February for Mizzou
The next three games against Arkansas, Vanderbilt and Tennessee will be tough. But fear not, even if the Tigers drop three straight, the next two games provide a glimmer of hope.
Mississippi State and Oklahoma are both teams Missouri has already beaten this season, so the groundwork is there. The Tigers will absolutely need both of these, or the season could come down the last game against a top-25 Arkansas team.
Barring a crazy SEC Tournament run, the Tigers would be best served to have their tournament spot wrapped up before the last game of the year. Make no mistake, while the opportunities are plentiful, the margin for error is also razor thin.