The Mizzou Tigers were going into Tuscaloosa with some hope after a comeback win over Auburn last week, but unfortunately that hope was quickly dashed against Alabama. Mizzou was shutout by the Crimson Tide 34-0 in this top 25 matchup.

Alabama was  coming off a disappointing loss at Tennessee, and new head coach Kalen Deboer was questioned over his leadership after suffering two losses before November, something that has not happened to Alabama since 2007.

This game was crucial for both Mizzou and Alabama as with a Mizzou win, the Tide would essentially be eliminated from playoff contention. Mizzou was facing the same fate, as this loss gave the Tigers two losses on the season already. 

The question coming into this game was, is Brady Cook healthy? Cook injured his ankle while getting tackled in the game against Auburn. He miraculously came back at the end of the third quarter to propel the Tigers comeback win.

Cook looked alright to start the game but left in the second quarter after appearing to injure his hand while throwing a pass and never came back.

 The offense, led by Drew Pyne, couldn’t put anything together and fell apart. Pyne threw three interceptions that completely turned the course of the game for Alabama. Pyne also was unable to get the ball to arguably the best receiver in college football, Luther Burden III only giving Burden three receptions for three yards. These miserable offensive numbers across the whole offensive side gave the Tide the best opportunities to win.

The defensive side of the ball was successful for the most part as in the first half, they only gave up 13 points. However, after the interceptions by Pyne the defense crumbled as Alabama had taken all the momentum.They would go on to score touchdown after touchdown and the Tigers couldn’t help but try to stop them. Justice Haynes, Jalen Milroe, and Jam Miller (twice) all found the endzone against the Tiger defense.

Mizzou now sits 6-2 overall and 2-2 in SEC play with four games to go. It would take some help for the Tigers to contend for a playoff spot, but Mizzou must bounce back and win out for the rest of the year.  

Looking ahead, Coach Drinkwitz’s squad hosts rival Oklahoma next week in what must be a huge bounce back win, but a few questions must be asked prior to the game.

 Will Brady Cook be good to go against OU? The offense has looked pitiful without the captain of this team. 

Can the offense produce if he’s not healthy? Coach Drinkwitz must find a way to move the ball without Cook. 

How can Mizzou get Burden III the ball more? When Burden is cooking the Tigers win.

Lots of questions but only time will give an answer.