Missouri Western opens its football season tonight on the road against Central Oklahoma. The Griffons finished last season in the top 25 and just missed the rankings in this season’s preseason poll. Coming into the season, MWS is picked to finish fifth in the always tough MIAA conference.

The Griffons boast a talented running back in Jeremiah White, who is a second-team All-American, and could be a sleeper pick in next year’s NFL draft. Along with White, tight end Gijon Robinson will also be an impact player for the Griffons’ offense. Partridge said numerous NFL scouts have already visited a few practices to get their take on the senior tight end.

The Griffons beat Central Oklahoma 26-7 last season. The Bronchos return seven starters from last year’s 3-7 team.