Mizzou jumps to No. 9 in AP Poll ahead of huge matchup with No. 25 Texas A&M

Despite not playing this weekend, Mizzou climbed two spots in Sunday’s Associated Press (AP) Poll, thanks to losses by Utah and Ole Miss, both of which were ranked ahead of Mizzou after Week 4.

The Tigers’ No. 9 ranking puts them back where they began the season. After multiple dominant victories, Mizzou climbed to No. 6 but dropped a few spots following a close win over Vanderbilt in its SEC opener.

At this stage, rankings are largely irrelevant. What really matters for the Tigers is winning the games in front of them and taking this week-by-week. While national recognition is appreciated, if Mizzou keeps winning, the rankings will naturally follow.

The Tigers will have a chance to make a statement on Saturday when they visit College Station. The matchup against Texas A&M will be Mizzou's second ranked opponent of the season and its first road game of the year. It'll be the toughest challenge to date and one of the most difficult games on their schedule this season.

Mizzou will come into the game as slight underdogs according to Vegas, validating the Tigers 'something to prove' mentality.

While Kyle Field is one of the toughest places to play, the stage shouldn't be too overwhelming for senior quarterback Brady Cook. The three-year starter has played on far bigger stages, including the Cotton Bowl last season. This is the most talented team he’s had around him, and after much discussion about his quarterback last week, Coach Drinkwitz had a clear message for the fans.

"The outside noise relating to him right now is ridiculous," Drinkwitz said. "People need to have their minds checked and anybody who is suggesting that there’s an issue at the quarterback position is insane, in my opinion.”

Mizzou and Texas A&M are set to clash at 11 a.m. on Saturday at Kyle Field. The game will be aired on ABC, as its one of the most anticipated matchups in Week 6.