How Mizzou, Brady Cook plan to handle QB's wrist injury during final 3 games
Missouri quarterback Brady Cook (12) rolls out to pass during the first half of a game against South Carolina on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
COLUMBIA, Mo. 鈥 Brady Cook will end his college career playing in a manner that he has for significant stretches of his tenure as Missouri鈥檚 starting quarterback: through injuries.
Cook returned from those injuries 鈥 a high ankle sprain and a right wrist issue 鈥 to play the entirety of the Tigers鈥 weekend loss against South Carolina and is in line to continue appearing on the field for Mizzou鈥檚 final two regular-season games and eventual bowl game.
鈥淗e鈥檚 dealing with multiple injuries that aren鈥檛 fully recovered yet,鈥 MU coach Eli Drinkwitz said Tuesday. 鈥淏ut he鈥檚 choosing to play 鈥 much like he did several years ago. You鈥檇 expect nothing less from Brady as a leader and a teammate.鈥
It wasn鈥檛 quite several years ago but only two seasons past that Cook played much of the 2022 season with a torn labrum in his throwing shoulder that required offseason surgery. He also played through the aftermath of a knee hyperextension early in the 2023 season, avoiding both ligament damage and missed time.
That Cook鈥檚 absence against Oklahoma on Nov. 9 was his first missed game since taking over as the Tigers鈥 starter at the end of the 2021 season was less a testament to his ability to stay healthy and more a reflection of how committed he is to taking the field.
鈥淵ou鈥檙e not going to get a lot of these opportunities back 鈥 once-in-a-lifetime deal,鈥 Cook said after the weekend defeat. 鈥淭here鈥檚 only a few games left, so whatever it takes.鈥
Cook was doubtful to play heading into that contest and was 鈥渘ot as close as I鈥檇 want to be鈥 to 100% healthy, he said.
During the portion of Tuesday鈥檚 practice that was open to reporters for observation 鈥 with Cook鈥檚 injury situation cleared up, Drinkwitz restored traditional media access policies 鈥 the quarterback was participating and throwing. He occasionally flexed and massaged his wrist in between reps.
Impressive as his return was, Cook did have some limitations against the Gamecocks. They didn鈥檛 necessarily show in his stat line: 21 for 31 passing with a touchdown and an interception. But there were little things thrown off.
During warmups, Cook鈥檚 throwing motion looked different 鈥 almost like he was sorting out a way to throw the ball without putting as much strain on his taped-up right wrist. His accuracy and touch didn鈥檛 seem impacted, but there was perhaps a bit of zip missing.
Sure enough, the Tigers expected that to be the concern with Cook鈥檚 capabilities at the present.
鈥淗e can鈥檛 quite snap his wrist the way he needs to, which is why some of the balls get left short,鈥 Drinkwitz said.
The fifth-year coach cited a third-down pass to wide receiver Theo Wease Jr. on Mizzou鈥檚 first drive as an example of Cook鈥檚 wrist-snap hangup affecting a throw. On that play, Cook鈥檚 pass came in short and Wease had to try to scoop in the catch. The play was ruled incomplete, and the Tigers kicked a field goal, though replays raised the question of whether Wease actually made the catch.
There were other plays on which Cook鈥檚 wrist didn鈥檛 seem to be an issue at all: His fourth-down touchdown pass to wideout Luther Burden III was perfectly placed to hit the receiver in stride with the ball where only he could reach it. The loss will mask the luster of that play, despite it being one of the more memorable throws and catches in recent Missouri history.
鈥淔or him to make that throw to Luther was pretty impressive,鈥 Drinkwitz said.
While Cook, despite the injuries, is looking fairly polished on the field, his recovery process over the past few weeks has not been especially smooth.
He called them 鈥渟ome of the longest weeks of my life,鈥 adding that he 鈥渨ouldn鈥檛 change it for anything.鈥
But Drinkwitz, who has regularly gone to bat for his quarterback 鈥 especially after Cook won the competition to retain his starting job ahead of the 2023 season 鈥 has seen the toll that the dual recovery process has taken.
鈥淚t鈥檚 been mentally taxing on him,鈥 Drinkwitz said. 鈥淚 think it鈥檚 been a mental challenge for him to stay positive and have a lot of uncertainty and unknown but try to do the best he can, every day, to try to get as healthy as he can for his teammates and for himself.鈥
There was another complicating factor added to Cook鈥檚 week of recovery and preparation for South Carolina: Center Connor Tollison, who has almost exclusively been Cook鈥檚 snapper, was ruled out for the season. That brought in Drake Heismeyer as the new center just a handful of days before the game.
Despite his limitations, Cook made sure to get extra reps with Heismeyer so that they could build familiarity. And the new MU center credited that as a reason why his addition seemed rather seamless against the Gamecocks.
鈥淗im and Drew (Pyne, the backup quarterback with whom Heismeyer usually works) are very similar, in those little quirks they like 鈥 because quarterbacks are like that,鈥 Heismeyer said. 鈥淏ut not much (different). We met up a little bit, talked to him a lot during the week, made sure we got some extra snaps in but nothing crazy.鈥
Cook鈥檚 recovery process is not over, and the team鈥檚 hope is that he can continue to regain strength and mobility in his wrist during the next two weeks while avoiding aggravating or worsening the injury. It seems unlikely that he鈥檒l be back at 100% for Saturday鈥檚 game at Mississippi State, but it seems even more unlikely at this point that Cook will miss another game.
鈥淗e鈥檚 a battler; he makes no excuses,鈥 Drinkwitz said. 鈥淰ery fortunate to have him leading our team the next three games.鈥
Gordo: Mizzou still has plenty to play for after falling short in CFP quest
Football fans struggle to consider context after their team suffers an agonizing loss, but here goes:
The Missouri Tigers are enjoying one of their best campaigns in recent times. They have already won more games this year than they did in five of their previous eight full seasons.
There鈥檚 still plenty to play for with games at Mississippi State and against rival Arkansas at home. Then, there will be another bowl game to play.
Truman should keep his head up. The Tigers can still deliver their best back-to-back seasons since 2013-14 under Gary Pinkel.
They can still finish on a high note while continuing to sell prospects and established transfer targets on their program.
But fans of the black and gold are still feeling blue after the gut-wrenching loss at South Carolina. Coach Eli Drinkwitz has raised expectations for this season and beyond.
This time around, the Tigers couldn鈥檛 quite meet them.
Fans dreamed of Mizzou earning a College Football Playoff berth this year 鈥 thanks in part to a schedule that lined up perfectly for them 鈥 but the Tigers never rose to that level.
Had they had the 2023 version of Brady Cook throwing to Luther Burden III and Theo Wease behind consistently firm pass protection, maybe they could have taken a serious run at the 12-team bracket.
But they didn鈥檛 have those elements. Nor did they have dominant running back Cody Schrader, defensive menace Darius Robinson and many other standouts from last year鈥檚 magical 11-2 season.
The Tigers sputtered early. Injuries mounted as this season wore on. Missouri was never at its best in Southeastern Conference play, where each week presents severe tests.
Ask the Oklahoma Sooners, Florida Gators and Kentucky Wildcats about the league鈥檚 merciless level of competition. They would love to be sitting where Missouri is today.
Drinkwitz has accomplished difficult things at Mizzou. He has upgraded high school recruiting, worked the transfer portal masterfully, energized the fan base, increased attendance revenues, bolstered fundraising, overseen facility improvements, inspired a stadium expansion and forged strong relationships with the university鈥檚 leadership.
Drinkwitz鈥檚 successes as the program鈥檚 CEO have drawn praise from his coaching peers.
He has made progress on the sidelines, too. His game management improved markedly. Instead of finding new ways to lose close games, the Tigers are finding ways to win them.
This season has featured narrow escapes against Vanderbilt, Auburn and Oklahoma. The Tigers seemed ready to steal the game at South Carolina, too, but the Gamecocks took the game back in the final seconds.
Cook鈥檚 brilliant go-ahead touchdown pass to Burden left too much time on the clock, and the Gamecocks rallied to knock the Tigers completely out of the CFP race.
But this season reaffirmed Missouri鈥檚 resilient identity under Drinkwitz. The Tigers began establishing that during their nightmarish 5-5 pandemic season, when they had to scrape together lineups. They persevered through the 6-7 seasons that followed while building toward last year鈥檚 breakthrough.
With the valiant Cook playing through injuries and leading by example, the Tigers toughed it out this season. Their ability to win seven games despite their adversity spoke to the culture Drinkwitz has fostered.
鈥淗onestly, that why I coach,鈥 Drinkwitz said after his Tuesday news conference. 鈥淚 thought that would be one of the strengths of our style, being relational and being intentional in developing a culture and a brotherhood and trying to be less transactional and more intentional in building that.鈥
He learned some hard head-coaching lessons, made the necessary adjustments and moved the program onto the national stage last year. Now, Missouri has the chance to deliver a solid follow-up season and earn additional respect in the country鈥檚 most treacherous conference.
There is hope for more good times ahead. The sport鈥檚 established powers no longer enjoy the decided edge they built over the years.
In college football鈥檚 old model, the elite programs could leverage their 100,000-per-game attendance, massive donor base, state-of-the-art facilities and well-oiled recruiting machine into perennial success.
Those programs could stack four- and five-star recruits on top of each other, maintain impressive depth and win the league鈥檚 annual war of attrition.
In the old world, Missouri faced a near-impossible climb into the SEC鈥檚 upper tier. The gap was just too great.
That world is gone now, thanks to the wide-open transfer portal and every team鈥檚 ability to fill team needs in free agency. Traditional powers can no longer stockpile talent.
In the new world, Indiana can make noise in the Big Ten and Ole Miss can bid for SEC supremacy. USC and Michigan can sink to .500, Vanderbilt can beat Alabama, Army can roll to a 9-0 start and Florida State can fall to 1-9.
And in the new world, Missouri can stay in the CFP chase. The Tigers won鈥檛 punch their ticket this season, but they can keep burnishing their brand while knowing another chance could come.
What bowl game will Mizzou play in? The Tigers鈥 options, explained
South Carolina wide receiver Nyck Harbor (8) makes a 43-yard reception over Missouri safety Daylan Carnell (13) during the first half of a game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Artie Walker Jr., Associated Press
COLUMBIA, Mo. 鈥 Well, it won鈥檛 be the bowl game Missouri wanted, but it will be the bowl game the Tigers deserve.
Mizzou, at 7-3 overall and 3-3 against Southeastern Conference opponents, lost its long-shot College Football Playoff bid in a last-minute defeat against South Carolina on Saturday. That means MU won鈥檛 be playing in a bowl game of the same luster as last season鈥檚 Cotton Bowl appearance.
But Missouri will be in a bowl nonetheless 鈥 and a fairly decent one at that. With two regular-season games 鈥 both of which the Tigers will be favored to win 鈥 left to play, they could be playing for their 10th win of the season in an eventual bowl.
Mizzou has been bowl-eligible since picking up its sixth win of the campaign against Auburn on Oct. 19.
Because the New Year鈥檚 Six bowls 鈥 Cotton, Fiesta, Orange, Peach, Sugar and Rose 鈥 are all neutral-site playoff games now, those more prestigious games are off the table for MU.
The next-best option for Missouri is the Citrus Bowl, played Dec. 31 at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida. That game has the privilege of picking the best SEC and Big Ten teams to not make the 12-team College Football Playoff field and pitting them against each other.
But it doesn鈥檛 seem likely that Mizzou鈥檚 stock will be high enough to finish as the best SEC team left out of the CFP. As things stand now, Alabama, Georgia, Texas, Texas A&M, Tennessee and Mississippi seem to have fairly clear paths to the playoff.
Will all six of those contenders make it? Almost certainly not. The CFP will likely feature four, maybe five, SEC teams in its dozen-program bracket. That would leave one of those six teams as the conference鈥檚 Citrus Bowl representative.
With the Citrus Bowl slot filled, MU would drop to the so-called Pool of Six tier 鈥 six bowl games with SEC tie-ins that matchup with teams after the playoff and Citrus Bowl matchups are set. Mizzou is positioned to be among South Carolina, Louisiana State and Vanderbilt in this group, along with a potential CFP contender dropping down or the likes of Arkansas or Florida moving up.
Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden III catches a pass for a 37-yard touchdown during the second half of a game against South Carolina on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Artie Walker Jr., Associated Press
The Pool of Six options are, in chronological order of kickoff date:
Liberty Bowl: 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 27 in Memphis, Tennessee. Played in Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, this game pairs an SEC team with a Big 12 opponent. Mizzou last appeared in the Liberty Bowl in 2018, losing to Oklahoma State.
Las Vegas Bowl: 9:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 27 in Las Vegas. The most novel of the options, an SEC team will face a current or former Pac-12 school 鈥 that includes those who recently migrated to the Big Ten, Big 12 and Atlantic Coast Conference 鈥 in the Las Vegas Raiders鈥 Allegiant Stadium. The Tigers have never played in the Las Vegas Bowl.
Music City Bowl: 1:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 30 in Nashville, Tennessee. A short trip to the Tennessee Titans鈥 Nissan Stadium could be in order, which would be a date against a Big Ten opponent. Missouri was supposed to face Iowa in the 2020 Music City Bowl, but the game was canceled due to COVID-19 concerns.
ReliaQuest Bowl: 11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 31 in Tampa, Florida. Played at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers鈥 Raymond James Stadium, the game once known as the Outback Bowl pits an SEC team against a Big Ten opponent. Missouri has never appeared in the ReliaQuest/Outback Bowl.
Texas Bowl: 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 31 in Houston. An SEC team and Big 12 team will duel inside NRG Stadium, the home of the Houston Texans. MU faced Texas in the 2017 Texas Bowl and lost.
Gator Bowl: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025, in Jacksonville, Florida. The only option that would take place in the new year, an SEC-ACC pairing will be contested in the Jacksonville Jaguars鈥 TIAA Bank Field. It鈥檚 been a while since Mizzou played in the Gator Bowl. Its last appearance in the game was against Alabama in 1968.
So where will the Tigers play? That鈥檚 to be determined after the CFP field is set on Sunday, Dec. 8. The Pool of Six games have equal footing, so it鈥檚 a guess as to which would take Missouri.
As such, bowl projections don鈥檛 mean a whole lot. But for the sake of some fun hypotheticals: ESPN has Mizzou playing either Arizona State or Washington 鈥 two former Pac-12 programs now aligned elsewhere 鈥 in the Las Vegas Bowl. CBS projects a Music City Bowl matchup between MU and defending national champion Michigan. The Action Network is projecting Missouri-Syracuse in the Gator Bowl.
Nobody asked for the Post-Dispatch鈥檚 bowl programming ideas, but here are a couple anyway:
How about Missouri and Illinois in the Music City Bowl? They last played each other in 2010 and won鈥檛 resume competitive gridiron relations until 2026. There鈥檚 history and a good chance both the Tigers and Illini will have 9-3 records. Plus, Nashville is a very doable drive for both fan bases 鈥 and a little tension could make the game a bit more competitive than it otherwise would be.
Want a game against a former foe? Mizzou and Iowa State could rekindle a matchup dating back to 1896 in the Liberty Bowl. It would be the 105th meeting between the Tigers and Cyclones, and they haven鈥檛 seen each other since MU left the Big 12 following the 2011 season. Maybe the Telephone Trophy could make the relatively short trip to Memphis.
Mizzou football snapshots: Snap counts, PFF grades from Tigers' loss at South Carolina
Nothing calls for a look at cool, calm numbers like a late, season ceiling-capping defeat, right?
Win or lose, contender or not, Pro Football Focus grades out Missouri鈥檚 games, and we take a weekly look at what its snap count and advanced stat data has to say. In the case of the Tigers鈥 34-30 loss at South Carolina, the numbers show roughly what the eye test did: A few individuals played well, the defense largely didn鈥檛 鈥 and uff da, the missed tackles.
In case you haven't read this weekly feature before: These grades come from PFF, not this writer. They're at times misaligned with what happened on the field, and certainly not as important of a metric as the final score.
PFF bases all of its grades, including college ones, on NFL standard: 90-100 is elite, 85-89 is Pro Bowl caliber, 70-84 is starting level, 60-69 means backup and anything between 0-59 is replaceable. Want to assign different labels to those number ranges? Go for it. Nobody will know.
Offensive line
LT Marcus Bryant, 70 snaps, 70.3
C Drake Heismeyer, 70 snaps, 68.1
RG Cam鈥橰on Johnson, 70 snaps, 74.5
RT Armand Membou, 70 snaps, 83.4
LG Cayden Green, 63 snaps, 65.7
LG Mitchell Walters, 12 snaps, 66.3
OL Tristan Wilson, 1 snap, 60.0
From a participation standpoint: Walters replaced Green for roughly a series at left guard, as he has in past games. But that has been for performance and injury reasons at different times, so it鈥檚 not immediately clear why it happened in this contest.
Membou graded out as Mizzou鈥檚 best offensive player in PFF鈥檚 eyes, and that tracks with both the eye test and pressure stats: He and Johnson allowed one quarterback pressure each, which isn鈥檛 bad against a pass rush that had produced the third-most sacks in the nation heading into the game.
Heismeyer held up well for someone making his first start. He allowed four pressures but no sacks.
Bryant wasn鈥檛 tabbed as responsible for any pressures.
Quarterback
Brady Cook, 70 snaps, 73.2
At this point in the season, Cook鈥檚 grading scale has functionally changed. It鈥檚 not out of 100 points or even pass-fail 鈥 it鈥檚 available-unavailable, and by being able to play despite feeling far from 100 percent, he deserves good marks.
PFF鈥檚 adjusted completion percentage 鈥 which takes plays like drops into account 鈥 for Cook was 73.3%. He took an average of 2.77 seconds to throw (around his season-long mark) and targeted receivers 8.7 yards downfield, on average (slightly shorter than normal).
Cook鈥檚 completion percentage was actually higher when he was under pressure than when he had a clean pocket 鈥 72.7% compared to 65.0%. Relatedly, he also completed passes at a higher clip when the Gamecocks blitzed.
Cook went four for six on passes thrown 20 or more yards downfield, earning a 94.5 passing grade for that subcategory of throw.
Play action worked well for Mizzou, with nine such plays producing 103 yards.
Running backs
Nate Noel, 43 snaps, 71.3
Jamal Roberts, 15 snaps, 68.9
Kewan Lacy, 8 snaps, 66.4
Marcus Carroll, 4 snaps, 65.7
Noel returned to a fuller workload in a big way, posting 150 yards on the ground 鈥 and 5.6 per carry. As normal, he feasted on zone plays, running 19 of those to just eight gap plays.
The rest of the snap distribution is interesting. Despite holding the second spot on the depth chart, Carroll hardly played at all. Lacy, a true freshman who burned his redshirt by appearing in this game, seemed to take Carroll鈥檚 role as the game wore on. Consider the hierarchy here something the Post-Dispatch will ask MU coach Eli Drinkwitz about this week.
Of the Tigers鈥 32 running plays, 12 went to the left while 20 went to the right. Eleven went to the gaps on either side of Heismeyer, which would seemingly be a vote of confidence in his ability to step in on the offensive line.
Wide receivers/tight ends
WR Theo Wease Jr., 67 snaps, 78.6
WR Luther Burden III, 57 snaps, 66.4
TE Brett Norfleet, 47 snaps, 54.2
WR Joshua Manning, 38 snaps, 59.8
TE Jordon Harris, 28 snaps, 66.2
WR Mekhi Miller, 27 snaps, 47.1
WR Marquis Johnson, 6 snaps, 80.6
WR Daniel Blood, 3 snaps, 56.1
TE Tyler Stephens, 1 snap, 59.4
It takes both a quarterback and a receiver for a catch to happen, and the Cook-Burden tandem was in a special kind of sync: Burden caught all eight of his targets, including two considered contested by South Carolina defenders.
It was Wease who really flashed his signature contested catch ability, though, making three such plays. Johnson鈥檚 deep reception was also graded as contested 鈥 the defender was actually flagged for pass interference, which must count.
Defensive line
DE Johnny Walker Jr., 59 snaps, 64.1
DT Kristian Williams, 44 snaps, 63.7
DE Zion Young, 43 snaps, 63.4
DT Chris McClellan, 42 snaps, 64.4
DT Sterling Webb, 28 snaps, 62.6
DE Eddie Kelly Jr., 13 snaps, 64.4
DE Jahkai Lang, 10 snaps, 61.1
DT Jalen Marshall, 9 snaps, 66.7
DT Marquis Gracial, 9 snaps, 88.4
DE Jaylen Brown, 7 snaps, 66.5
DE Williams Nwaneri, 5 snaps, 55.2
The stat that counts is how we鈥檒l lead off every defensive position group: missed tackles. On the D-line, Walker missed two, Kristian Williams missed one.
Walker did manage to pressure South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers eight times, though only one of those led to a sack. McClellan and Williams were the only other linemen with multiple pressures.
Linebackers
Corey Flagg Jr., 56 snaps, 51.9
Triston Newson, 50 snaps, 53.8
Chuck Hicks, 18 snaps, 62.8
Nicholas Rodriguez, 5 snaps, 50.9
On the missed tackle meter: Flagg missed two, Newson and Hicks each missed one.
Flagg and Newson, the clear top two at this position, combined for 14 other tackles. Newson, as usual, was the most frequent blitzer, rushing the passer six times.
Interestingly, Rodriguez rushed the passer on all five of his snaps.
Defensive backs
CB Dreyden Norwood, 68 snaps, 59.6
STAR Daylan Carnell, 67 snaps, 66.7
S Joseph Charleston, 67 snaps, 58.5
CB Nicholas Deloach Jr., 51 snaps, 56.3
S Marvin Burks Jr., 33 snaps, 44.0
S Caleb Flagg, 28 snaps, 43.5
CB Toriano Pride Jr., 28 snaps, 67.6
STAR Sidney Williams Sr., 11 snaps, 63.6
S Tre鈥橵ez Johnson, 8 snaps, 55.5
Oof. Not a banner day as the grades go. Deloach missed three tackles, Burks missed two, then Flagg, Charleston and Carnell each missed one.
Deloach was targeted heavily, allowing five catches and 121 yards on six targets. Burks was deemed responsible for a coverage bust leading to the Gamecocks鈥 first touchdown.
Mizzou's Brady Cook 'dealing with multiple injuries that aren't fully recovered,' Eli Drinkwitz says
'That's why I coach,' Mizzou's Eli Drinkwitz says of team's brotherhood
Mizzou rues missed tackles, opportunities in last-minute loss at South Carolina
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COLUMBIA, S.C. 鈥 The decisive part of the decisive play of a decisive game Saturday was missing tackles.
Running back Raheim 鈥淩ocket鈥 Sanders scored a 15-yard receiving touchdown on a shovel pass play with 15 seconds left in Missouri鈥檚 34-30 loss to South Carolina. It ended a back and forth game that saw the Tigers claw back from a 15-point halftime deficit only to blow two fourth-quarter leads.
South Carolina running back Raheim Sanders lunges over Missouri linebacker Triston Newson (14) and defensive tackle Kristian Williams, right, for a first down during the first half Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Artie Walker Jr., Associated Press
And on Sanders鈥 game-winning play, there were four missed tackles, by an estimate that鈥檚 kind to the Mizzou defense. Others were in position to potentially make plays but didn鈥檛.
So MU lost, dropping a one-score game for the first time in two seasons after finding a way to win the last eight. It didn鈥檛 take defensive end Johnny Walker Jr. long to find a reason for why Saturday night鈥檚 close fight finished differently.
鈥淢issed tackles on defense and just gave up too many plays,鈥 he said. 鈥淲e didn鈥檛 help the offense out. They did their job. We gotta do ours.鈥
The offense had put the Tigers in phenomenal position to pull out a win with just 55 seconds of game time before the defense gave up Sanders鈥 score. Mizzou scored what could鈥檝e, should鈥檝e or would鈥檝e been a signature touchdown through two of its signature players.
Facing a fourth down after a missed third-down opportunity 鈥 more on that shortly 鈥 quarterback Brady Cook connected with wide receiver Luther Burden III for a bold 37-yard receiving touchdown.
Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden III, right, catches a pass for a 37-yard touchdown during the second half against South Carolina on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Artie Walker Jr., Associated Press
Cook played despite spending the three days leading up to the game listed as doubtful on Missouri鈥檚 injury report because of ankle and wrist injuries and finished 21 for 31 with 237 passing yards, a touchdown and an interception. The Tigers needed just a few yards to keep hopes of winning the game and, maybe, making the College Football Playoff 鈥 more on that coming, too 鈥 alive.
He changed the play call and went for it.
鈥淚 saw that the guy covering (Burden) was pressed, or a little tighter than we wanted, so I checked the play, gave Luther the route that he loves the most,鈥 Cook said. 鈥淚t was man coverage. Made a play, fourth down.鈥
Burden鈥檚 touchdown gave MU a three-point lead and 1:15 with which to defend. But the requisite plays weren鈥檛 made, allowing the Gamecocks to drive 70 yards on six plays for the win.
And when it came to missed plays, there had been plenty up to that point.
Offensively, Mizzou struggled in late-down situations. The Tigers converted one of their nine third downs and one of their two fourth downs 鈥 that latter conversion being Burden鈥檚 touchdown.
Of their five trips to the red zone, they scored on all of them. But only two of those scores were touchdowns, with field goal-sized settlements popping up frequently inside South Carolina鈥檚 20-yard line.
Missouri鈥檚 first two drives of the game, for example, saw the visitors drive to just inside the red zone, stall and kick a field goal.
鈥淥ur inability to convert third downs in the red zone in the first half was why we were behind and ultimately the difference in the score,鈥 MU coach Eli Drinkwitz said. 鈥淚f any of those are touchdowns, it鈥檚 a different game.鈥
鈥淚t鈥檚 those third downs in the first half that we were not able to convert on and we had to kick it,鈥 Cook said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a huge deal.鈥
Aside from those shortcomings, the Mizzou offense largely did its job, in Walker鈥檚 words. The running game looked strong with primary tailback Nate Noel鈥檚 usage up to a more typical level 鈥 he took 27 carries for 150 yards and a touchdown.
He and fellow running backs Marcus Carroll and Kewan Lacy played key roles in the visitors鈥 second-half rally. After entering halftime down 21-6, they clawed back to take a 22-21 lead roughly five minutes into the fourth quarter through Noel鈥檚 touchdown.
That sequence saw the offense lean into the ground game while the defense clamped down after a first half of coverage busts 鈥 the Gamecocks struck first when Mizzou let a receiver get open over the top of the secondary 鈥 more misses and overall miscues.
In all, South Carolina enjoyed seven passing plays that gained 26 or more yards as part of a rather consistent explosive streak.
鈥淭hey were getting separation in man, and we weren鈥檛 able to get to the quarterback,鈥 Drinkwitz said. 鈥淲e鈥檙e going to have to reassess what we鈥檙e doing there.鈥
The time for reassessment is running out. Mizzou (7-3, 3-3 Southeastern Conference) travels to face Mississippi State (2-8, 0-6 SEC) and hosts Arkansas (5-5, 3-4 SEC) to close out the regular season.
Then a bowl game to round things out.
It won鈥檛 be part of the College Football Playoff. With at least three losses, Missouri is fairly decisively eliminated from clawing back into contention for the postseason. Pragmatically, that happened a few weekends ago in a shutout defeat to Alabama. But any longshot bid at getting back on the bubble was contingent on the Tigers finding a way to beat the Gamecocks.
And as Mizzou鈥檚 miscues opened window after window for South Carolina to win, they shut the door on the kind of season that would鈥檝e made history.
Mizzou football head coach Eli Drinkwitz speaks with the media on Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024, about backup quarterback Drew Pyne. (Video by Mizzou Network, used with permission of Mizzou Athletics)
Photos: Mizzou football falls to South Carolina after allowing late score
South Carolina running back Raheim Sanders (5) is stopped on fourth down by Missouri safety Joseph Charleston, left, and defensive end Johnny Walker Jr. (15) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers (16) is tackled by Missouri linebacker Corey Flagg Jr., right, during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina wide receiver Nyck Harbor (8) makes a catch for a 26-yard touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
Missouri quarterback Brady Cook (12) is pressured by South Carolina edge rusher Dylan Stewart (6) during the first half of a game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Artie Walker Jr., Associated Press
South Carolina wide receiver Nyck Harbor (8) makes a 43-yard reception over Missouri safety Daylan Carnell (13) during the first half of a game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Artie Walker Jr., Associated Press
South Carolina running back Raheim Sanders lunges over Missouri linebacker Triston Newson (14) and defensive tackle Kristian Williams, right, for a first down during the first half Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Artie Walker Jr., Associated Press
Missouri quarterback Brady Cook (12) drops back in the pocket to pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game against South Carolina, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina defensive back Nick Emmanwori, right, tackles Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden III (3) after a short gain during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
Missouri quarterback Brady Cook (12) rolls out to pass during the first half of a game against South Carolina on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Artie Walker Jr., Associated Press
South Carolina wide receiver Nyck Harbor (8) celebrates with tight end Michael Smith (20) after his 26-yard touchdown reception during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina tight end Joshua Simon (6) is all by himself as he makes a catch for a 6-yard touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina celebrates after a 6-yard touchdown reception by tight end Joshua Simon, center, during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina tight end Joshua Simon (6) looks into the stands after making a 6-yard touchdown reception during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden III catches a pass for a 37-yard touchdown during the second half of a game against South Carolina on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Artie Walker Jr., Associated Press
Missouri running back Marcus Carroll (9) runs for a 2-yard touchdown past South Carolina defensive back Nick Emmanwori, left, and linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr. (17) during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer salutes the fans as he leaves the field after winning an NCAA college football game against Missouri Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. South Carolina won 34-30. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina celebrates a game clinching interception by defensive back Jalon Kilgore (24) during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer gets in the ear of running back Raheim Sanders (5) after he scores the game winning touchdown during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
Missouri running back Marcus Carroll (9) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the second half of an NCAA college football game against South Carolina Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina tight end Michael Smith (20) celebrates after a 5-yard touchdown reception during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina wide receiver Dalevon Campbell (15) is knocked out of bounds inside the 5 yard line by Missouri safety Joseph Charleston (28) during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden III, right, catches a pass for a 37-yard touchdown during the second half against South Carolina on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Artie Walker Jr., Associated Press
South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer, center right, points at an official that called a penalty that wiped away a 2-point conversion during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer wants to go for one point after a go ahead touchdown with 15 seconds remaining in the second half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer, right, shakes hands with Missouri head coach Eliah Drinkwitz, center left, after winning an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer, right, shakes hands with Missouri head coach Eliah Drinkwitz, left, after winning an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina defensive back Jalon Kilgore, left, celebrates with defensive back Gerald Kilgore (23) after his game clinching interception during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
Missouri celebrates after running back Jamal Roberts (20) converts a 2-point conversion during the second half of an NCAA college football game against South Carolina Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
Missouri running back Kewan Lacy (11) is tackled by South Carolina defensive back Jalon Kilgore (24) inside the 10-yard line during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina celebrates after winning an NCAA college football game against Missouri and claiming the Mayor's Cup Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina celebrates after winning an NCAA college football game against Missouri and claiming the Mayor's Cup Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
'I want to play': Why Mizzou QB Brady Cook played vs. South Carolina despite wrist, ankle injuries
Missouri quarterback Brady Cook (12) is pressured by South Carolina edge rusher Dylan Stewart (6) during the first half of a game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Artie Walker Jr., Associated Press
COLUMBIA, S.C. 鈥 Riddle: When does doubtful not really mean doubtful?
Answer: when it has to do with Brady Cook.
The Missouri starting quarterback spent the week on the wrong side of the likelihood-to-play spectrum, listed as doubtful on the three Southeastern Conference-mandated injury reports leading up to Saturday鈥檚 loss to South Carolina.
Yet when the Tigers arrived at Williams-Brice Stadium, there was Cook, walking off the team bus without a cast or brace or limp in sight. And there was Cook, stretching with his teammates. Then throwing with a different-looking form.
Then in the game.
Cook, four weeks removed from a high-ankle sprain and three weeks removed from an injury to his throwing wrist, started a game after receiving a doubtful designation for the second time this season. He played the entire game against the Gamecocks, completing 21 of 31 passes for 237 yards, a touchdown and an interception.
Visually, or maybe aesthetically, Cook looked fairly fine. He made throws downfield that would鈥檝e been solid developments even when healthy. He scrambled in timely fashion and made a couple of plays with his feet. His pick came at the end of the game, but it had been functionally sealed before that.
But don鈥檛 mistake that for a sign that he was even close to 100% when the game-time part of being a game-time decision came around.
鈥淣ot as close as I鈥檇 want to be, I know that,鈥 Cook said. 鈥淏ut when the ball is snapped, we鈥檙e not thinking about that. I鈥檓 not thinking about how my body feels. It鈥檚 all about one thing, and the adrenaline kicks in, the flow of the game kicks in and you鈥檙e just doing what you love. You don鈥檛 think about it.鈥
He spoke almost sentimentally after the 34-30 defeat, after being sidelined for the previous weekend鈥檚 dramatic win over Oklahoma, after spending the past four weeks as the subject of consistent health-related inquiry 鈥 and with only a few weeks left in his Mizzou career.
Like in the moment when the Post-Dispatch asked Cook what the behind-the-scenes treatment to get him able to play against South Carolina looked like.
鈥淚t鈥檚 been a lot, honestly,鈥 he said. 鈥淪ome of the longest weeks of my life. And I wouldn鈥檛 change it for anything. It鈥檚 been a challenge. There鈥檚 been adversity, you know, physically and mentally and just where we鈥檙e at in the season.鈥
If that was an acknowledgment that this stage of the season has the Tigers solidly out of the playoff hunt and thereby not where they want to be, there were no signs of bitterness. Just a tenderness apparently revealed by absence of what coursed through his veins on the field of play.
鈥淏ut I鈥檒l tell you this,鈥 Cook continued. 鈥淚鈥檓 blessed to be able to go out there tonight and play the game I love. Even though it didn鈥檛 go our way ... I had a whole lot of fun with my teammates tonight.鈥
Among the most fun moments of Saturday night, even in defeat, was a 37-yard touchdown to wide receiver Luther Burden III that almost went down as the game-winning score. On that fourth-down play, Cook relished the fact that he鈥檚 teammates with one of the sport鈥檚 more dynamic playmakers, called an audible to give Burden a preferred route and let it fly for a big moment.
It was the kind of play that Mizzou needs from its starting quarterback.
When MU coach Eli Drinkwitz outlined at the start of the 2024 season what the Tigers needed from Cook to be successful, he often turned to the phrase 鈥渂attlefield commander.鈥
It doesn鈥檛 mean anything in a football sense, at least in that it鈥檚 not operationally akin to labels like 鈥渟crambler鈥 or 鈥減laymaker鈥 or 鈥渃reator.鈥 It might not really mean anything at all.
But if there鈥檚 anything to the notion that absence can make a heart grow fonder 鈥 and Cook鈥檚 postgame comments, if nothing else, suggest there is 鈥 then maybe that battlefield commander designation isn鈥檛 for nothing.
鈥淕utty performance,鈥 Drinkwitz said of what he saw from Cook on Saturday. 鈥淟ed his team down there, played well. ... I thought he did everything he could to give us a chance to win.鈥
Nobody鈥檚 keen on revealing what 鈥渆verything鈥 looks like in the treatment room. The only visible suggestion was white medical tape on Cook鈥檚 injured wrist that blended in with his shirt sleeves unless scrutinized closely.
鈥淭here鈥檚 a lot that goes into it,鈥 Cook said. 鈥淏ut I鈥檒l say this: I want to play.鈥
So he comes back and does, whether close to 100% or further off from that mark than he鈥檇 like to admit. There鈥檚 probably a risk to him doing this. Can he really rely on that ankle to help him escape? Could that wrist sustain the same kind of blow that injured it without some repercussions?
It鈥檚 still a decision made with the big picture in mind, though. Cook coming back to play, at least moving forward, won鈥檛 be about chasing a title or even a spot in the College Football Playoff.
Brady Cook鈥檚 playing for the kid from 最新杏吧原创 who grew up a Mizzou fan and gave up so much to get to this point. Playing requires something different now, but why would he stop?
鈥淵ou also got to play for yourself, too,鈥 Cook said. 鈥淵ou鈥檙e not going to get a lot of these opportunities back. Once-in-a-lifetime deal.
鈥淭here鈥檚 only a few games left, so whatever it takes.鈥
Photos: Mizzou football falls to South Carolina after allowing late score
South Carolina running back Raheim Sanders (5) is stopped on fourth down by Missouri safety Joseph Charleston, left, and defensive end Johnny Walker Jr. (15) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers (16) is tackled by Missouri linebacker Corey Flagg Jr., right, during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina wide receiver Nyck Harbor (8) makes a catch for a 26-yard touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
Missouri quarterback Brady Cook (12) is pressured by South Carolina edge rusher Dylan Stewart (6) during the first half of a game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Artie Walker Jr., Associated Press
South Carolina wide receiver Nyck Harbor (8) makes a 43-yard reception over Missouri safety Daylan Carnell (13) during the first half of a game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Artie Walker Jr., Associated Press
South Carolina running back Raheim Sanders lunges over Missouri linebacker Triston Newson (14) and defensive tackle Kristian Williams, right, for a first down during the first half Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Artie Walker Jr., Associated Press
Missouri quarterback Brady Cook (12) drops back in the pocket to pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game against South Carolina, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina defensive back Nick Emmanwori, right, tackles Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden III (3) after a short gain during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
Missouri quarterback Brady Cook (12) rolls out to pass during the first half of a game against South Carolina on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Artie Walker Jr., Associated Press
South Carolina wide receiver Nyck Harbor (8) celebrates with tight end Michael Smith (20) after his 26-yard touchdown reception during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina tight end Joshua Simon (6) is all by himself as he makes a catch for a 6-yard touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina celebrates after a 6-yard touchdown reception by tight end Joshua Simon, center, during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina tight end Joshua Simon (6) looks into the stands after making a 6-yard touchdown reception during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden III catches a pass for a 37-yard touchdown during the second half of a game against South Carolina on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Artie Walker Jr., Associated Press
Missouri running back Marcus Carroll (9) runs for a 2-yard touchdown past South Carolina defensive back Nick Emmanwori, left, and linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr. (17) during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer salutes the fans as he leaves the field after winning an NCAA college football game against Missouri Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. South Carolina won 34-30. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina celebrates a game clinching interception by defensive back Jalon Kilgore (24) during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer gets in the ear of running back Raheim Sanders (5) after he scores the game winning touchdown during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
Missouri running back Marcus Carroll (9) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the second half of an NCAA college football game against South Carolina Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina tight end Michael Smith (20) celebrates after a 5-yard touchdown reception during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina wide receiver Dalevon Campbell (15) is knocked out of bounds inside the 5 yard line by Missouri safety Joseph Charleston (28) during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden III, right, catches a pass for a 37-yard touchdown during the second half against South Carolina on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Artie Walker Jr., Associated Press
South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer, center right, points at an official that called a penalty that wiped away a 2-point conversion during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer wants to go for one point after a go ahead touchdown with 15 seconds remaining in the second half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer, right, shakes hands with Missouri head coach Eliah Drinkwitz, center left, after winning an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer, right, shakes hands with Missouri head coach Eliah Drinkwitz, left, after winning an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina defensive back Jalon Kilgore, left, celebrates with defensive back Gerald Kilgore (23) after his game clinching interception during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
Missouri celebrates after running back Jamal Roberts (20) converts a 2-point conversion during the second half of an NCAA college football game against South Carolina Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
Missouri running back Kewan Lacy (11) is tackled by South Carolina defensive back Jalon Kilgore (24) inside the 10-yard line during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina celebrates after winning an NCAA college football game against Missouri and claiming the Mayor's Cup Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina celebrates after winning an NCAA college football game against Missouri and claiming the Mayor's Cup Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
How to watch Mizzou Tigers football at Mississippi State: TV, live stream, game time
A season plagued by injuries and unmet expectations nears its end Saturday when Mizzou travels to face Mississippi State for its final road game of the season.
The Tigers have yet to win an SEC road game, and Mississippi State, winless in the league, presents a great opportunity for Mizzou to snap that skid.
Mizzou (7-3, 3-3 Southeastern Conference) lost 34-30 at South Carolina on Saturday.
Mississippi State (2-8, 0-6) was off this past weekend after a 33-14 loss to No. 7 Tennessee on Nov. 9.
Mizzou is 2-2 all-time vs. Mississippi State but the Tigers have lost both meetings since joining the Southeastern Conference. The teams have not played since 2020.
Here's how to watch Mizzou聽at聽Mississippi State football:
Mizzou Tigers聽at Mississippi State Bulldogs TV, live stream and radio
Game time: 3:15 p.m. CST/4:15 p.m. EST Saturday, Nov. 23
Location: Davis Wade Stadium in Starkville, Mississippi
TV channel: SEC Network
Live stream:
Radio: KTRS (550 AM and 106.1 FM) in 最新杏吧原创, across Missouri and online through the
Streaming apps: Varsity Network app on the or (free); TuneIn app on the or . (requires subscription)
Storylines
How Mizzou's 'Nick Bolton Drill' prepped Zion Young for game-winning scoop and score vs. OU
Miscues, blown leads haunt Mizzou in last-minute road loss to South Carolina
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COLUMBIA, S.C. 鈥 For the first time in the last two seasons, Missouri lost a one-score football game.
The Tigers had won their last eight through all sorts of plays: 61-yard field goals, scoop-and-scores, late-game defensive stands.
鈥淚 think it鈥檚 just all three phases of the game needing to work together to find ways to win and being dialed in what you鈥檙e doing in those phases and not letting the moment be too big for you,鈥 MU coach Eli Drinkwitz said of what鈥檚 needed for those wins.
That recipe was evidently lacking Saturday evening, when defensive breakdowns and missed offensive opportunities haunted No. 24/23 Mizzou in a 34-30 defeat at No. 23/21 South Carolina.
The Tigers overcame a 15-point halftime deficit to regain the lead in the final two minutes of the game, only to relinquish it right back to the Gamecocks.
Running back Raheim "Rocket" Sanders scored the game-winning touchdown with 15 seconds to go, powering through the Missouri defense from 15 yards out on a shovel pass 鈥 forcing his way to victory.
Quarterback Brady Cook returned to action despite ankle and wrist injuries and started for MU 鈥 and being listed as doubtful on the injury report the night before the game.
But that鈥檚 little consolation for a program now carved out of the College Football Playoff picture for good. No. 24 Missouri, also ranked 23rd by the CFP鈥檚 selection committee, stands to fall in regard after losing to the No. 23/21 Gamecocks.
Mizzou is now 7-3 overall, 3-3 against Southeastern Conference opponents and 1-3 on the road this season. The Mayor鈥檚 Cup is back in South Carolina鈥檚 possession for the first time since 2018.
Offense starts strong
When it came to the question of what his starting quarterback 鈥 and, by extension, his offense 鈥 would look like, Drinkwitz wanted an early answer. The fifth-year coach鈥檚 team captains won the coin toss and elected to receive, taking the ball to start the game.
That test delivered some early positive returns. Cook鈥檚 legs seemed to be in working order when he scrambled for nine yards on one play, and his arm looked solid on a 23-yard pass to wideout Theo Wease Jr. on a post pattern over the middle of the field.
Mizzou鈥檚 second drive of the game looked similar to its first: Cook鈥檚 mobility freed up his playmaking and ability to find Wease in between zones and as part of his progressions.
But on both drives, the offensive positivity dried up just inside the red zone. Kicker Blake Craig kicked 38- and 37-yard field goals on the Tigers鈥 first two possessions, respectively.
Coverage, discipline breakdowns cost points
The first touchdown of the game went to the hosts, with Missouri conceding in a rather familiar fashion: a coverage breakdown in its secondary.
Cornerback Dreyden Norwood blitzed from the outside on the key play, and safety Marvin Burks Jr. didn鈥檛 pick up on his ensuing coverage responsibility, which gave South Carolina wide receiver Nyck Harbor a few-step cushion for a 26-yard touchdown over the top and a 7-6 lead before the end of the first quarter.
The Tigers鈥 safeties redeemed themselves when in the next high pressure situation. The Gamecocks went for a fourth and 1 on the MU 17-yard line. Sanders tried to bounce a carry out to the edge, but Mizzou safety Joseph Charleston beat him there and hit him clean and low for the key stop.
Missouri鈥檚 offense didn鈥檛 capitalize on the opportunity, in part due to two false starts on a third-and-7 play that made it a third and 17.
But the visiting defense got the ball right back. Defensive end Johnny Walker Jr. nearly strip-sacked the Gamecocks鈥 LaNorris Sellers, though the quarterback grabbed the ball off the ground. On the next snap, Sellers overthrew a receiver and placed the ball right in Norwood鈥檚 chest for an interception.
Norwood returned the pick past the South Carolina 30-yard line, but once again, the Tigers鈥 offense couldn鈥檛 keep the momentum going. Kicker Blake Craig missed a 49-yard field goal attempt short, which replays suggested may have been due to a poor snap or hold.
More coverage struggles boosted the Gamecocks鈥 trek to their second touchdown. Harbor out-ran hybrid safety Daylan Carnell for a 46-yard completion on a fade route. Close to the goal line, Mizzou鈥檚 safeties and linebackers collectively bit on a run-pass-option, or RPO, play, leaving tight end Josh Simon wide open in the end zone for an easy completion.
Trailing 14-6 but with the ball and 1:57 to work with before halftime, Mizzou played passively. The Tigers ran the ball twice through Noel, then on third down, Cook passed to Wease on a short crossing route that was taking him away from the line to gain. They punted the ball back to South Carolina with 1:33 remaining in the first half.
The Gamecocks wasted no time in tacking on another touchdown. Five plays covering 77 yards ended with a 38-yard catch-and-run score for South Carolina鈥檚 Jared Brown.
Missouri had a chance to respond before the end of the half with a field goal of its own, having drove to the edge of Craig鈥檚 range. But right guard Cam鈥橰on Johnson drew a 15-yard penalty for shoving a defender after a play, backing the Tigers out of the opportunity.
MU tried a hail mary on the last play of the half, only for Cook to drop the ball and had fall on top of it
South Carolina鈥檚 14 points scored in 78 seconds of gametime had the hosts ahead 21-6 at halftime 鈥 and receiving the ball to start the second.
Running backs lead response
Mizzou stopped the Gamecocks鈥 out of the break, forcing another turnover on downs.
To get down the field the other way and score their first touchdown of the game, the Tigers turned to their running backs. Nate Noel burst forward for a 23-yard gain on one rush before freshman Kewan Lacy 鈥 who burned his redshirt by appearing in the contest 鈥 took over in the receiving game and with some strong runs. It was ultimately Marcus Carroll who powered in for a 2-yard rushing touchdown.
Trailing by nine after the score, Drinkwitz decided to go for two. Cook didn鈥檛 get back to the goal line on a draw play, leaving the score at 21-12.
The MU defense forced a turnover on downs for the third time on South Carolina鈥檚 next drive, stuffing a Sellers quarterback sneak at his own 38-yard line.
That led to more Mizzou points, but in the form of another red zone possession turned field goal try. A tricky third down play from the Gamecocks鈥 7-yard line forced the kick, which Craig made from 25 yards to bring the hosts within one score, leading just 21-15.
South Carolina, rather suddenly on the back foot, went three-and-out and punted for the first time in the game with 11 minutes to go.
Missouri came out firing. Cook targeted speedster Marquis Johnson over the top 鈥 the kind of play that worked to great effect last season 鈥 and the wideout hauled in the home run ball, even as the defensive back covering him committed pass interference. A roughing the passer foul also called on the play enhanced the gain to a 39-yard pick up.
Noel scored on a zone run to give Mizzou back the lead after scoring 16 straight points, going up 22-21 with nine minutes and change left in the game.
Setting up Burden's big play聽
With the Tigers back in front, execution errors returned. South Carolina drove to down to the MU 7-yard line with help from missed tackles. Sellers spun out of what looked to be a sure third-down sack by Walker, staying upright to complete a pass for the first down. Wideout Dalevon Campbell broke three tackles himself on a 47-yard catch and run to set up first and goal.
Two plays later, the Gamecocks had their touchdown, targeted Mizzou linebacker Chuck Hicks in coverage. They went for two, but a penalty nullified the try, leaving their lead at 27-22 with 5:04 left.
Mizzou's big shot came on a fourth and 3 with 1:10 remaining. Cook targeted Burden deep in man coverage and he hauled the pass in for a game-changing 37-yard touchdown.
On another two-point try, running back Jamal Roberts carried a direct snap into the end zone for a 30-27 lead.
Just like on their last possession, the Gamecocks faced lax opposition marching back down the field. They marched within field goal range 鈥 enough to tie 鈥 with 27 seconds to go, covering 49 yards in four plays.
Then came Sanders' score on a shovel pass, more missed tackles from the Mizzou defense that defined the final blow.
Photos: Mizzou football falls to South Carolina after allowing late score
South Carolina running back Raheim Sanders (5) is stopped on fourth down by Missouri safety Joseph Charleston, left, and defensive end Johnny Walker Jr. (15) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers (16) is tackled by Missouri linebacker Corey Flagg Jr., right, during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina wide receiver Nyck Harbor (8) makes a catch for a 26-yard touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
Missouri quarterback Brady Cook (12) is pressured by South Carolina edge rusher Dylan Stewart (6) during the first half of a game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Artie Walker Jr., Associated Press
South Carolina wide receiver Nyck Harbor (8) makes a 43-yard reception over Missouri safety Daylan Carnell (13) during the first half of a game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Artie Walker Jr., Associated Press
South Carolina running back Raheim Sanders lunges over Missouri linebacker Triston Newson (14) and defensive tackle Kristian Williams, right, for a first down during the first half Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Artie Walker Jr., Associated Press
Missouri quarterback Brady Cook (12) drops back in the pocket to pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game against South Carolina, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina defensive back Nick Emmanwori, right, tackles Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden III (3) after a short gain during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
Missouri quarterback Brady Cook (12) rolls out to pass during the first half of a game against South Carolina on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Artie Walker Jr., Associated Press
South Carolina wide receiver Nyck Harbor (8) celebrates with tight end Michael Smith (20) after his 26-yard touchdown reception during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina tight end Joshua Simon (6) is all by himself as he makes a catch for a 6-yard touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina celebrates after a 6-yard touchdown reception by tight end Joshua Simon, center, during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina tight end Joshua Simon (6) looks into the stands after making a 6-yard touchdown reception during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden III catches a pass for a 37-yard touchdown during the second half of a game against South Carolina on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Artie Walker Jr., Associated Press
Missouri running back Marcus Carroll (9) runs for a 2-yard touchdown past South Carolina defensive back Nick Emmanwori, left, and linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr. (17) during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer salutes the fans as he leaves the field after winning an NCAA college football game against Missouri Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. South Carolina won 34-30. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina celebrates a game clinching interception by defensive back Jalon Kilgore (24) during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer gets in the ear of running back Raheim Sanders (5) after he scores the game winning touchdown during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
Missouri running back Marcus Carroll (9) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the second half of an NCAA college football game against South Carolina Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina tight end Michael Smith (20) celebrates after a 5-yard touchdown reception during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina wide receiver Dalevon Campbell (15) is knocked out of bounds inside the 5 yard line by Missouri safety Joseph Charleston (28) during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden III, right, catches a pass for a 37-yard touchdown during the second half against South Carolina on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Artie Walker Jr., Associated Press
South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer, center right, points at an official that called a penalty that wiped away a 2-point conversion during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer wants to go for one point after a go ahead touchdown with 15 seconds remaining in the second half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer, right, shakes hands with Missouri head coach Eliah Drinkwitz, center left, after winning an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer, right, shakes hands with Missouri head coach Eliah Drinkwitz, left, after winning an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina defensive back Jalon Kilgore, left, celebrates with defensive back Gerald Kilgore (23) after his game clinching interception during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
Missouri celebrates after running back Jamal Roberts (20) converts a 2-point conversion during the second half of an NCAA college football game against South Carolina Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
Missouri running back Kewan Lacy (11) is tackled by South Carolina defensive back Jalon Kilgore (24) inside the 10-yard line during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina celebrates after winning an NCAA college football game against Missouri and claiming the Mayor's Cup Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Artie Walker Jr.
South Carolina celebrates after winning an NCAA college football game against Missouri and claiming the Mayor's Cup Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Artie Walker Jr.)
Mizzou鈥檚 longshot playoff bid requires win against South Carolina
COLUMBIA, Mo. 鈥 Get out the thumbtacks and string. It鈥檚 time to think out a web of what-ifs.
If Arkansas and can beat Texas, Tennessee beats Georgia, Auburn beats Texas A&M, Vanderbilt beats LSU, Texas beats Texas A&M and Vanderbilt beats Tennessee, then Missouri could finish second in the Southeastern Conference based on its league opponent win percentages, record against common opponents 鈥 actually, let鈥檚 not do that.
Technically, there exists a path for Mizzou to reach the SEC title game and the College Football Playoff. But because the Tigers already lost what was branded a CFP elimination game a few weeks ago to Alabama, that outcome is functionally toast.
The only path to reviving it 鈥 and 鈥渞eviving,鈥 frankly, is a reach 鈥 involves MU beating South Carolina on the road Saturday.
The 3:15 p.m. kickoff pits the No. 24 Tigers, ranked 23rd by the College Football Playoff Selection Committee, against the No. 23/21 Gamecocks for the Mayor鈥檚 Cup.
South Carolina has a worse record (6-3, 4-3 SEC) than Mizzou does (7-2, 3-2 SEC) but is still regarded more highly. News of who will quarterback the MU offense may shift the spread, but the Tigers will enter Williams-Brice Stadium as solid underdogs.
And they need to find a way to win.
Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden III, left, runs past the tackle of Oklahoma defensive back Billy Bowman Jr. during the first quarter Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024, in Columbia, Mo.
L.G. Patterson, Associated Press
There will be some degree of uncertainty at the heart of Missouri鈥檚 offense. Starting quarterback Brady Cook鈥檚 status may not be clear until shortly before kickoff 鈥 and even then, his mobility and overall health won鈥檛 be apparent until he鈥檚 thrown a couple of passes and taken a hit or two.
Regardless of whether it鈥檚 Cook or backup Drew Pyne, they鈥檒l have a different man snapping them the ball: Drake Heismeyer will step in to start at center with Connor Tollison out for the season.
Heismeyer has received repeated votes of confidence from his teammates and coaches this week. He鈥檚 a veteran, having been on the roster since coach Eli Drinkwitz鈥檚 first season in 2020. The Francis Howell product looked solid during fill-in duty against Oklahoma.
Still, it鈥檚 a difference.
鈥淭here鈥檚 a chemistry aspect of offense that鈥檚 disrupted when you鈥檝e got the center and the quarterback (changing),鈥 Drinkwitz said. 鈥淭hey鈥檙e gonna be new.鈥
At a surface level 鈥 or maybe it鈥檚 a sky-high view 鈥 Missouri鈥檚 path to victory probably involves keeping the game close.
The Tigers are 4-0 in one-score games this season, and were 4-0 in those situations last season, too. When MU and Oklahoma were knotted in a narrow contest last weekend, that鈥檚 what wide receivers coach Jacob Peeler reminded the Mizzou sideline of: This crop of Missouri players tends to claw victories out of those situations.
鈥淭hey鈥檝e all had a little bit different flavor to it,鈥 Drinkwitz said of those one-score results flipping MU鈥檚 way. 鈥淚 think it鈥檚 just all three phases of the game needing to work together to find ways to win and being dialed in what you鈥檙e doing in those phases and not letting the moment be too big for you.鈥
But that only matters if there鈥檚 a moment in the first place.
Mizzou鈥檚 previous two SEC road games have both been blowout losses. The 41-10 loss at Texas A&M and 34-0 defeat to the Crimson Tide are the knocks against the Tigers that have them outside the CFP bubble discussion.
All of this, it鈥檚 worth noting, is very much an external view of the Missouri-South Carolina matchup. You could even go so far as to say it鈥檚 鈥渙utside noise.鈥
Drinkwitz pays attention to that sort of thing. He stores receipts so that he can readily pay his one-liner bills. But he, of course, doesn鈥檛 want his players thinking about a game with this kind of angle.
鈥淭hat鈥檚 something that you cannot look at,鈥 middle linebacker Corey Flagg Jr. said. 鈥淚n college football, especially with this 12-team playoff deal that we have now, a lot of different guys are coming out with different polls, different rankings. None of this stuff will be right until the official rankings come out.鈥
So during each of the Tigers鈥 two bye weeks this season, they鈥檝e paused at team 鈥渃heckpoints.鈥 Taking the time to zoom out from merely trying to win the next game, MU looked more broadly at where the program stacks up, statistics, goals and maybe even the playoff picture.
鈥淭hat was the time we went over that,鈥 Flagg said.
The last Mizzou checkpoint was two weeks ago, between the 鈥楤ama debacle and the Oklahoma chaos. At that point, the playoff picture of the present moment was fairly clear. A lot of ifs and thens, tiebreakers and resumes, polls and projections boil down to one route for Missouri: beating South Carolina.
鈥淲e were exactly where we needed to be,鈥 Flagg said.
