GAME BREAKDOWN
KEY MATCHUP: Missouri’s backfield has been a triple-threat throughout the season, with leading rusher Larry Rountree III and Damarea Crockett splitting the bulk of the carries, while freshman Tyler Badie has demonstrated significant speed and versatility as both a runner and a pass-catcher. The Tigers’ offensive balance has been the key to their recent success, having scored 24 rushing touchdowns and 23 passing touchdowns on the season, compared to the 44 passing touchdowns and 16 rushing touchdowns it posted last season. If Arkansas is unable to slow Missouri’s ground game, the Razorbacks may very well be facing a winless season in SEC play.
DRAFT SLANT
–RT Paul Adams has started 36 consecutive games on Missouri’s offensive line, and was named an offensive captain for his senior season. At 6-foot-6, 315 pounds, Adams has significant upside as an NFL prospect, demonstrating good run blocking ability and superior pass protection skills, though his footwork and lateral mobility may make him a later-round pick based on scouting reports.
ROSTER REPORT:
–TE Albert Okwuegbunam injured his shoulder during Missouri’s 38-17 win at Florida on Nov. 3 and has missed the last two games. Missouri coach Barry Odom said two weeks ago that Okwuegbunam’s injury was not significant enough to require surgery, and will assess his availability for Friday’s game based on his participation in practice this week.
–RB Damarea Crockett injured his ankle during last Saturday’s blowout win over Tennessee, and was sporting a walking boot on the sideline during the second half. Crockett, a native of Little Rock, Arkansas, has yet to compete against the Razorbacks after dealing with a suspension his freshman year and a season-ending injury last season. Coach Barry Odom said Crockett is eager to play Friday, and hopes his injury heals adequately enough to allow the junior running back to suit up for the Tigers’ final regular season game.
–CB Adam Sparks has missed the last three games because of a shin injury, but coach Barry Odom is hopeful the sophomore defensive back will return for Friday’s rivalry game.
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