SEC Football Previews: Missouri Tigers a playoff hopeful?

BRYAN, Texas (KBTX) - On paper, Missouri has everything it needs to make a run at the College Football Playoff in the first year of the 12-team field. Led by quarterback Brady Cook, can the Tigers find enough consistency to run through the SEC? Here is a short preview of the Tigers:

COACH — Eli Drinkwitz 40-22 overall (28-21 in four seasons at Missouri).

2023 SEASON — 11-2 overall, 6-2 in SEC (T-2nd, East).

RETURNING STARTERS — 14 (8 offensive, 5 defensive, 1 special teams).

TOP PLAYERS — QB Brady Cook, WR Luther Burden III, WR Theo Wease Jr., TE Brett Norfleet, DE Johnny Walker Jr., CB Toriano Pride Jr.

KEY LOSSES — RB Cody Schrader, LT Javon Foster, DE Darius Robinson, LB Ty’Ron Hopper, CB Ennis Rakestraw Jr. CB Kris Abrams-Draine, S Jaylon Carlies.

SEASON OUTLOOK — Missouri’s offense has the firepower to build upon a breakout season last year, ranked 28th in the nation in scoring (32.5 points per game) and 28th in total yardage (434.3 per game). Cook is the main factor, having completed 244 of 369 passes for 3,317 yards and 21 touchdowns. Missouri’s defense was top 50 in most categories last year, but are under the leadership of new defensive coordinator Corey Batoon and must replace six starters on that side of the ball.

SCHEDULE:

Denotes SEC Conference Game