Norfleet and Wease both banged up in blowout Week 1 victory

On Thursday, the Missouri Tigers welcomed the Murray State Racers to Faurot Field for the opening game of the 2024-2025 NCAA football season. With expectations high, the Tigers took care of business, securing a 51-0 victory.

There were many bright spots in the game: Clemson transfer Toriano Pride Jr. shined in his Tigers debut with a first-quarter pick-six, running back transfers Marcus Carroll and Nate Noel each scored a touchdown on the ground, and Heisman hopeful Luther Burden notched a receiving touchdown for the first score of the game.

However, it wasn't all smooth sailing for the reigning Cotton Bowl Champions, as sophomore tight end Brett Norfleet and fifth-year captain Theo Wease Jr. both left the game with injuries.

What happened?

Norfleet, who is poised for a breakout season after earning SEC All-Freshman Team honors last year, exited the game in the third quarter with a shoulder injury and did not return. Alongside Norfleet, Wease also left the game early due to a hip injury.

What's next?

Missouri head coach Eli Drinkwitz addressed the injuries during his press conference, saying, "We're just gonna be smart within the second half, so I think they'll be fine. Wasn't alarmed by anything." His comments should help ease fans' concerns as the Tigers set their sights on making the College Football Playoffs this season, where they'll need both Wease and Norfleet to be at their best.