Idaho @ Missouri preview
Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium
Missouri hopes to snap its five-game losing streak when it gets a break from the SEC grind to host Idaho on Saturday. The Tigers are winless against FBS opponents this season, while the Vandals have recorded only one victory versus an FBS foe – a double-overtime triumph at South Alabama.
Both teams desperately need a win to preserve their razor-thin bowl hopes as the programs meet for the third time – and the first since 1963. Coach Barry Odom reportedly set ablaze scouting reports, game plans and other materials related to the Tigers’ first six games during a team meeting on Sunday, trying to send his squad a message to forget the past. Missouri’s offense has shown signs of life, and the team has two straight winnable non-conference games before finishing with four SEC clashes – none of which are against opponents that currently are above .500. The Vandals have lost two straight by a combined eight points, while each of their last four games have been decided by single digits.
TV: Noon ET, SEC Network. LINE: Missouri -14.5
ABOUT IDAHO (2-4): The Vandals blew a 17-0 halftime lead to Appalachian State last week, but their defense has been stout - especially against the pass. Idaho ranks sixth in the nation in pass defense, allowing 162.3 yards per game, and has held four of its six opponents under 200 yards passing. The offense has been fairly balanced, but Sun Belt leading rusher Aaron Duckworth (552 yards) is the biggest threat for a unit that has yet to score 30 points in a game.
ABOUT MISSOURI (1-5): The Tigers have shown signs of life over the last two games, especially on offense. Drew Lock and the passing game have returned to the form that made Missouri a dangerous opponent at the end of last season, and the club traded touchdowns for most of the first half before fading in a 53-28 loss at Georgia last week. Missouri’s biggest concern is that the defense hasn’t been able to stop anyone, allowing at least 30 points in each game - including a season-opening 72-43 win over FCS opponent Missouri State.
EXTRA POINTS
1. Idaho is 0-8 all-time against current SEC schools.
2. Missouri WR Emanuel Hall has made eight catches for 270 yards and three touchdowns over the last two games and is averaging 28.77 yards per reception, the best mark in the nation.
3. Missouri RB Damarea Crockett was limited in practice after leaving the Georgia game with a shoulder injury but is expected to start.
PREDICTION: Missouri 47, Idaho 28