Missouri vs. Southeast Missouri State Preview and Prediction

The first week of the college football season continues with the No. 24 Missouri Tigers hosting the Southeast Missouri State Redhawks Saturday. Missouri looking for a third straight SEC East title, while Southeast Missouri is hoping to finish above .500 in the Ohio Valley Conference.

Missouri Outlook: 

Maty Mauk is back at QB for Missouri. The junior has started 17 games the last two years and it's time for him to take the next step in his development. Russell Hansbrough is back at RB and should rush for over 1,000 yards again this season. The defense should be solid and the interior of the offensive line returns. Missouri should have no problems in this game. 

Southeast Missouri Outlook: 

The Redhawks went 5-7 last year, including a 3-5 record in the Ohio Valley Conference. The FCS team isn't exactly loaded with talent, but wide receiver Paul McRoberts could be an NFL player. He reeled in 44 passes for 711 yards and nine TDs in only seven games last season. The Redhawks' offensive line was pretty solid last season too, giving up only nine sacks. 

What To Watch For: Injuries 

Missouri will win, but the Tigers don't want any pyrrhic victories this early in the season. The Tigers need to get in and get out healthy. The same is true for the Redhawks. Losing any of their key players in a game like this will hurt their chances in the OVC. 

Prediction: Missouri Wins 56-3

There isn't even a spread in this game. Missouri will win with ease and the backups should get plenty of playing time. On the bright side for the Redhawks, they do get $385,000 for showing up. 

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