With four weeks left in the regular season and virtually no chance at making the postseason, a year in which Missouri State fans and players went into the season dreaming of a deep playoff run has come crashing down.
The Bears, amid a five-game losing streak, will host 0-7 Western Illinois in their homecoming game on Saturday afternoon at Plaster Stadium.
Third-year head coach Bobby Petrino, who will more than likely miss the postseason for the first time as the Bears' head coach, still wants to see his team finish strong as he evaluates what's needed heading into the next season.