Mizzou Dominates Murray State with a 51-0 Shutout

Columbia, MO — The Missouri Tigers opened their 2024 season with an emphatic statement, dismantling the Murray State Racers 51-0 in a one-sided affair at Faurot Field. The Tigers left no doubt about their intentions this season, showcasing a balanced and efficient offensive attack coupled with a suffocating defense that never gave the Racers a chance.

Brady Cook Leads the Charge

Quarterback Brady Cook delivered a solid performance, completing 19 of 30 passes for 218 yards and a touchdown. Cook was in control from the outset, spreading the ball around to a variety of targets. Impressively, 11 different players recorded at least one reception, highlighting the depth and versatility of Missouri’s offense.

Cook’s lone touchdown pass came early in the second quarter, a 15-yard strike to sophomore wideout Luther Burden III, who was one of many Tigers to find the end zone on Saturday.

Nate Noel Anchors the Ground Game

Nate Noel led the rushing attack with 11 carries for 48 yards, including a 7-yard touchdown run in the first quarter that set the tone for the game. Noel's quickness and vision allowed him to find seams in the Murray State defense, while also helping Missouri control the tempo.

Spreading the Wealth

Missouri’s offensive game plan was a model of distribution, with five different players recording touchdowns. The aforementioned Burden III and Noel were joined by wide receiver Mookie Cooper, running back Jamal Roberts, and running back Marcus Carroll, all of whom found paydirt at various points throughout the game. The sheer variety of playmakers involved will give opposing defenses plenty to think about as the season progresses.

Blake Craig Perfect on Special Teams

Freshman kicker Blake Craig was perfect on the day, hitting all three of his field goal attempts, with a long of 47 yards, and nailing all six of his extra-point tries. Craig’s reliability in the kicking game added to the Tigers’ total domination of Murray State, ensuring that every drive ended in points.

Defense Dominates

On the other side of the ball, Missouri's defense was relentless, pitching a shutout and holding the Racers to just 140 total yards. The Tigers forced two turnovers and consistently pressured Murray State quarterback DJ Williams, who struggled to find any rhythm against a stout Mizzou front seven. The secondary was equally impressive, blanketing the Racers’ receivers and allowing little in the way of passing success.

Looking Ahead

Missouri’s convincing win is exactly the start the Tigers needed as they look to build momentum for the tougher challenges that lie ahead. Next up, they’ll face a more formidable foe in Kansas State, where they'll look to carry forward the energy and execution that were on full display against Murray State.

As the Tigers march into the heart of their schedule, Saturday's performance serves as a reminder that Missouri is a team to be reckoned with in the SEC. With a balanced offense, a deep roster, and a defense capable of smothering opponents, Mizzou has set the stage for what could be a very exciting season in Columbia.