Saturday, August 30, 2014

Faurot Field in Columbia

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The South Dakota State Jackrabbits, who come into the season as a top 10 team in the FCS, will have a tough time picking up a win on Saturday afternoon when they face the #24 Missouri Tigers.

South Dakota State had a 5-3 record in the Missouri Valley Football Conference in 2013 with a 9-5 overall record. They won eight of their final 12 games and made it to the second round of the MVFC playoffs.

Jackrabbit fans will be very optimistic this season because all three of their best players from 2013 will be coming back. Running back Zach Zenner (2,015 yards rushing, 23 touchdowns), quarterback Austin Sumner (2,999 passing yards, 19 touchdowns) and wide receiver Jason Schneider (78 catches, 1,088 yards and 10 touchdowns) should lead a potent offense.

Missouri was one of the most underrated teams in college football last season and ended up being one of the top 10 teams in the sport. Missouri surprised everyone by going 7-1 in the SEC last year and 12-2 overall, including a 41-31 win over Oklahoma State in the Cotton Bowl. They scored 39.1 points per game and only gave up 23.1 points per game in 2013.

Sophomore quarterback Maty Mauk, who passed for 1,071 yards and 11 touchdowns last year, will take over as the starter for the Tigers in 2014. Mizzou's defense should be solid again this season, with the defensive line being lead by nose guard Lucas Vincent and defensive tackle Matt Hoch.

Injuries to Watch

South Dakota State Jackrabbits

No injuries to report at this time

Missouri Tigers

08/25/14 HB Morgan Steward Hip is downgraded to doubtful Saturday vs. South Dakota St
08/23/14 WR Jimmie Hunt Hamstring questionable Saturday vs. South Dakota St
08/11/14 DL Matt Hoch Pectoral questionable Saturday vs. South Dakota St
08/02/14 WR Levi Copelin Suspension out for season

Tony's Pick: Take Missouri

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