Mizzou vs. Illinois recap

The Mizzou Tigers always seem to find a way to win. The Tigers took the sixth, and final Arch Rivalry game 23-13, sweeping Illinois in the series. They played a poor first half offensively versus the Illini but stepped up big in the second half, scoring 20 unanswered points. Junior Quarterback Blaine Gabbert threw for 281 yards with two touchdowns, while completing 70.8% of his passes. He threw zero interceptions en route to those numbers.
Gabbert’s primary target was Sophomore receiver T.J. Moe. Moe caught 13 passes for 101 yards and caught the crucial touchdown that put the Tigers in the lead, one that they would never relinquish.
The Tigers struggled early to replace suspended Running Back Derrick Washington, and ended the game with only 122 total rushing yards. Team rushing leader De’Vion Moore had 82 yards. The Illini could not stop the multi-dimensional rushing attack, which seemed to be represented by a singular play.
The Tigers defense was stout throughout the entire game and at times they rose above average and made some key stops.
The game-changer was Cornerback Carl Gettis. Gettis contributed to the Tiger victory in multiple ways as a cornerback, return man, and in kick coverage. He finished the day with 4 tackles, and one vital interception. The numbers don’t represent the effort he put in today. He stopped a punt on the one-yard line, which forced the Illini offense to drive 99 and a half yards to tie the game, which never happened.
The Tigers won the contest by boldly taking charge in the second half but that won’t win a game against titans of the conference like Oklahoma or Nebraska. The Tigers have many improvements to make, and will do so as they head into their next game against the McNeese State Cowboys on Sept. 11. The home opener is set to begin at 6p.m. at Faurot Field.