Missouri Football 2025: Tigers Set to Roar in the SEC

Missouri Football 2025: Tigers Set to Roar in the SECMissouri Football 2025: Tigers Set to Roar in the SEC smart coaching, and growing fan support, Mizzou is ready to compete at the highest level.

A New Era for Mizzou Football

Head coach Eli Drinkwitz is entering his fifth season. His leadership has transformed the program. Once seen as an underdog, Missouri now plays with confidence and swagger. The team’s identity is clear—fast, physical, and focused.

Quarterback Brady Cook returns after a breakout 2024 season. He threw for over 3,000 yards and 25 touchdowns. His growth as a leader has inspired the locker room. Cook is now a true dual-threat quarterback with improved decision-making and poise under pressure.

Behind him, the Tigers have depth. True freshman Malik Hornsby is pushing hard in practice. His speed and arm talent give Mizzou another weapon. If needed, he’s ready to step in.

Offensive Weapons Ready to Explode

Wide receiver Luther Burden III is a name to watch. He led the SEC in receiving yards last year. His route running and hands are elite. Burden is a nightmare for defensive backs.

Transfer wideout Theo Weasel Jr. brings experience and size. Together, they form one of the best receiver duos in the nation. Tight end Brett Norfleet also adds a reliable target in the red zone.

The run game looks strong, too. Cody Schrader returns after rushing for 1,400 yards in 2024. His vision and toughness make him hard to stop. The offensive line, anchored by senior Javon Foster, gives him the space to work.

Defense Stepping Up

Defense wins in the SEC, and Missouri knows it. Defensive coordinator Blake Baker has tightened things up. The Tigers were top five in the SEC in points allowed last season.

The defensive line is stacked. Darius Robinson and Niles Gaddy bring pressure off the edge. They combined for 17 sacks last year. In the middle, Kristian Williams plugs gaps and clogs the run lanes.

Linebacker Tyron Hopper is the heart of the defense. He reads plays fast and hits hard. His instincts and motor fuel the unit.

The secondary is experienced. Kris Abrams-Drained and Ennis Rake straw Jr. lock down receivers. Both are on NFL radars and rarely give up big plays.

Special Teams Make a Difference

Don’t overlook special teams. Harrison Nevis, known as “the Thicker Kicker,” is back. He’s reliable from 50+ yards and a game-changer in close contests. Punter Riley Williams pins opponents deep, flipping field position.

Schedule Breakdown

The 2025 schedule is tough but manageable. Key home games include Georgia and Arkansas. A road trip to LSU looms large. Missouri will need to win early and stay healthy.

The bye week comes at a good time—right before a November stretch that could decide the SEC East. With smart game planning, Mizzou could finish 10-2 or better.

Fan Support Growing

Faure Field is buzzing again. Attendance is up, and the student section brings the energy. The team feeds off the crowd’s intensity.

Missouri football is more than back—it’s building something special. The culture, the talent, and the momentum are real. The Tigers are no longer underdogs. They’re contenders.