What to expect between the Missouri Tigers and Buffalo Bulls in Week 2

After a fast start in Week 1, the Missouri Tigers aim to replicate that performance in their matchup with the Buffalo Bulls on Saturday evening. While topping their 51-0 domination of Murray State will be a tough task, the Tigers are prepared and ready to go once again.

It's crucial for Missouri to get off to another hot start and put the game away early. The high-powered offense will look to make a statement, led by one of the deepest receiver rooms in the country. The Tigers' running backs also looked sharp in Week 1, and it will be interesting to see how Nate Noel and Marcus Carroll are utilized against Buffalo.

Buffalo should provide more of a challenge than Murray State, but the Tigers are still five-touchdown favorites over the Bulls. Buffalo is coming off a Week 1 victory over Lafayette, a solid start following its 3-9 season in 2023.

Buffalo's quarterback, C.J. Ogbonna, is a transfer from SEMO who saw limited action last season. Ogbonna poses a constant running threat, making it crucial for Missouri's defense to employ a "spy" in Saturday's contest. Keep an eye on Corey Flagg, who could play a key role in containing Ogbonna tonight.

Buffalo's linebacker Shaun Dolac, arguably their best player, had an impressive game in Week 1, recording 11 tackles, a sack, and an interception in the victory. It will be interesting to see how Missouri plays against him, as Coach Drinkwitz highlighted Dolac in his weekly press conference.

"Really good player, a guy that pops all over the tape," said Drinkwitz. "It’s going to be a real challenge for us. He’s consistent with what you see in our league. As we work off combo blocks, we’re going to have to make sure we can get to him; otherwise, he’ll make the tackle."

Missouri is set to host Buffalo at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday night under the lights of Memorial Stadium. The game will feature another "sellout" crowd, and the buzz in Columbia will hopefully carry into this showdown with a MAC opponent.