In a thrilling offensive shootout that went down to the wire, the Missouri Tigers edged out the Vanderbilt Commodores 41–38 in a game that showcased explosive playmaking, clutch performances, and a continued narrative of resilience under head coach Mjkemp15. The Tigers started fast, putting up 14 points in the first quarter and closing with 10 in the final frame to seal the win, as quarterback Brady Cook delivered a masterclass performance, completing 20 of 24 passes for 360 yards, four touchdowns, and just one interception for a staggering 256.0 passer rating. Missouri’s ground game was fueled by a monstrous showing from Nate Noel, who torched Vanderbilt for 255 rushing yards and a touchdown on just 21 carries—good for 12.1 yards per touch—including a game-breaking 63-yard run. Luther Burden III continued his dominance as one of the top receivers in the nation, hauling in 9 catches for 154 yards and 3 touchdowns, including a 62-yard bomb, while the Tigers averaged an eye-popping 20 yards per reception across the board. The offensive line held up well under pressure, allowing two sacks but also enabling a 577-yard total offensive output. On defense, while Missouri gave up 474 yards and allowed Vanderbilt to hang tough, they came up with timely stops and crucial plays when it mattered most, led by Dreyden Norwood’s 7 tackles and Zion Young’s lone sack of the game. Chuck Hicks and Johnny Walker Jr. each added a tackle for loss, while Khalil Jacobs and Norwood forced fumbles to swing momentum. Special teams were pivotal, with kicker Blake Craig going a perfect 5-for-5 on field goals, including a key make from 29 yards out, contributing 15 total points. Despite the Tigers being slightly outgained in total yardage (590–577), they were far more efficient through the air, dominated in first downs (24 to 17), and made the most of their red zone opportunities, scoring on all three trips. Coach Mjkemp15’s squad was slightly more disciplined, committing just three penalties for five yards, and won the execution battle on third downs and in crunch time. With back-to-back gritty wins and an offense firing on all cylinders, Missouri proved they can finish in tight games and deliver under pressure—this time, taking down a game Vanderbilt squad in a 41–38 classic.
Coach Kemp Notes
"BTW, the next practice, the whole Missouri defense will be running gassers until I get tired (aka the whole practice) for this terrible performance." He said even though they won, it was still terrible.
Oh, Vandy, not like this. The Dores choked one away tonight against Mizzou. QB Diego Pavia was nowhere to be seen as Vandy unveiled its new offensive attack. Nate Johnson executed the offense nearly flawlessly. Johnson had 3 passing TDs while running for another and adding 180 yards on 10 carries. Sedrick Alexander added 120 yards and a TD on the ground.
The Vandy defense was basically helpless against the Tigers. Brady Cook had entirely too long to throw too many times. The Dores could get absolutely no pressure. They also couldn't stop the run. The good news is the Tigers' D was just as inept. This led to a back and forth game that was tied with 40 seconds left.
Vandy was in field goal range, but Johnson fumbled the ball away. The Tigers took advantage. They caught the Dores in man coverage against stacked WRs, and their free safety got caught up in the up man's route leaving his man wide open on the sideline. The tigers moved into field goal range and hit the game winner as time expired.