Missouri Football vs. Auburn: Scouting Report and Score Prediction
As the Missouri Tigers prepare to face the Auburn Tigers in a pivotal SEC matchup, both teams find themselves in need of a victory to strengthen their season prospects. Here’s a breakdown of the game and a prediction on the final score.
### Scouting Report
#### **Missouri Tigers (4-2, 1-2 SEC)**
Missouri enters this game coming off a narrow win over Kentucky and will be looking to build momentum. Quarterback Brady Cook has been solid but will need to take more shots downfield to keep Auburn’s defense on its toes. Mizzou’s rushing game, led by Cody Schrader, has been inconsistent, and their offensive line must step up against Auburn’s formidable front seven. On defense, Missouri has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in stopping the run, but they’ll need to tighten their coverage in the secondary to prevent big plays.
#### **Auburn Tigers (3-3, 1-2 SEC)**
Auburn, under coach Hugh Freeze, has been inconsistent this season, especially offensively. The Tigers’ quarterback situation has been fluid, with Payton Thorne and Robby Ashford splitting time. Auburn’s rushing attack, led by Jarquez Hunter, has been the bright spot, but the offensive line has struggled in pass protection. Defensively, Auburn excels at stopping the run and will likely try to make Missouri one-dimensional by shutting down Schrader early. Linebacker Eugene Asante has been a standout for Auburn’s defense, and they’ll look to generate pressure on Cook to force mistakes.
### Key Matchups
1. **Missouri’s Offensive Line vs. Auburn’s Front Seven**: If Mizzou can’t protect Cook or establish the run, Auburn’s defense could take over the game.
2. **Auburn’s Rushing Attack vs. Missouri’s Front Seven**: Missouri’s ability to stop the run could dictate Auburn’s offensive rhythm.
3. **Special Teams**: Both teams have shown inconsistency in special teams play, which could be a difference-maker in a close game.
### X-Factor
**Brady Cook’s Deep Passing**: If Missouri can stretch the field with explosive plays in the passing game, it will open up their rushing attack and put Auburn on the back foot. Cook’s connection with wide receiver Luther Burden III could be crucial.
### Prediction
Both teams have struggled with consistency this season, and the game may come down to which defense can make key stops in the second half. Missouri’s offense has more firepower, especially in the passing game, while Auburn will rely on their defense to keep it close.
**Final Score Prediction**:
**Missouri 27, Auburn 21**
Missouri’s ability to strike through the air and Auburn’s continued struggles on offense will give the Tigers from Missouri the edge in a hard-fought SEC showdown.
