MIZZOU STAYS UNDEFEATED, EYES SET ON AN SEC TITLE RUN
Ajay Allen - September 23, 2025
Zoe Yim
Missouri football continued its strong start to the season with a 29-20 win over South Carolina, moving to 4-0 overall and 1-0 in SEC play. The victory showcased the Tigers’ ability to control games on both sides of the ball while raising expectations for a possible run at the SEC Championship and even a College Football Playoff berth.
Against South Carolina, Missouri leaned heavily on its backfield, which has quickly become one of the most dangerous units in the SEC.
Ahmad Hardy powered the ground game with 138 yards and a touchdown, marking his fourth straight 100-yard performance. His consistency has given the Tigers a reliable centerpiece, but he is not alone.
Missouri’s rotation features multiple backs who can make plays in space or push through contact, giving the offense both speed and power options.
That versatility has allowed the Tigers to stay balanced and keep drives alive in crucial moments. The South Carolina game highlighted that balance and toughness. Missouri’s offensive line opened lanes throughout the day, while Hardy and his teammates took advantage, piling up rushing yards that kept pressure off the passing game.
On defense, the Tigers shut down the Gamecocks’ run completely, holding them to negative rushing yards. The pass rush forced hurried throws and knocked South Carolina out of rhythm. In the fourth quarter, Missouri delivered in the clutch, converting a key two point attempt and drilling a late field goal that sealed the win and the momentum.
Missouri is now positioned as more than just a good early season story. With an undefeated record the Tigers have the pieces to be a serious SEC contender. If they continue to control these conference games and avoid costly turnovers, they could make a push not only for an SEC title, but for good placing in the College Football Playoff as well. Wins against marquee opponents would boost their resume and make it difficult for the selection committee to overlook them.
Now Missouri prepares for one of its toughest challenges yet: a matchup with Alabama. The Tigers have not beaten the Crimson Tide since 1975, and last season’s meeting ended in a 34-0 Alabama victory. In that game Missouri managed just 239 yards of total offense compared to Alabama’s 486, with three interceptions proving costly.
The Crimson Tide dominated on the ground with 271 rushing yards, while Missouri finished with 167. Starting quarterback Brady Cook also left the game with a wrist injury, further tilting the contest.
This year’s Missouri team brings new energy and confidence into the matchup. The backfield’s depth and production, combined with a defense that just neutralized South Carolina’s run game, gives the Tigers tools to compete. To succeed against Alabama, Missouri will need to continue leaning on its running backs and maintain the physical edge they showed against the Gamecocks.
At 4-0, Missouri has already earned respect around the league. The upcoming showdown with Alabama will determine whether the Tigers can take the next step and prove themselves as true contenders in the SEC and beyond.
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