By the numbers, this matchup shouldn’t be close. But in college football, stats don’t always tell the whole story.
For Louisiana, former head coach Billy Napier — now at Florida — established a foundation of consistency outside the Power Four. But in 2024, the Ragin’ Cajuns aren’t replicating that magic. After opening the season with an embarrassing loss to Rice — as two-touchdown favorites — they bounced back with a 34–10 win over FCS opponent McNeese State.
Now, Louisiana heads to Columbia to face a red-hot Missouri team, fresh off its first Border War clash in 14 years — a 42–31 win over rival Kansas. There are a few key storylines to watch heading into Saturday’s matchup.
First, Mizzou can’t overlook special teams. This could be an opportunity for freshman kicker Robert Meyer to test his range and build confidence.
Quarterback injuries have plagued Louisiana. Projected starter Walker Howard is sidelined with an oblique injury, creating a revolving door under center. However, their ground game is showing signs of life. The Cajuns rushed for 291 yards last week behind the trio of Bill Davis, Zylan Perry, and Steven Blanco.
They’ll now face a Missouri run defense that held up well against Kansas and will look to continue that dominance against a non–Power Four opponent.
As head coach Eli Drinkwitz put it:
“Good teams win. Great teams improve.”
And improvement is something Missouri has shown week to week. The Tigers rank fifth nationally in total yards per game (577.5). Quarterback Beau Pribula is coming off a stellar outing, throwing for 334 yards and 3 touchdowns on 30-of-39 passing, with no interceptions. Meanwhile, running backs Ahmad Hardy and Jamal Roberts each eclipsed the 100-yard mark against Kansas.
Mizzou also holds a 261–31 advantage in rushing yards — a number they’ll look to replicate.
The Tigers are seeking their 22nd straight non-conference win at home. If they play to their standard, this game shouldn’t be close. Still, in college football, every week is a new test — and Saturday is another chance for Missouri to show they’re more than just a team off to a fast start.