The Missouri Tigers first bowl game in five years ended with a 27-14 loss to Arkansas in the Independence Bowl. The Tigers had their chances to win the game, but some costly mistakes kept them from gaining much ground on the Razorbacks. Mizzou’s defense held off two early drives by the Razorbacks, forcing them kick field goals. In between, Missouri drove 66 yards for a touchdown and held a 7-6 lead. But Arkansas put up two touchdowns in 1:25 thanks in part to Zach Strom who snapped the ball over punter Brock Harvey’s head. That set up Arkansas’ second touchdown and game them a 21-7. Missouri got to within ten points when Brad Smith’s five yard run near the end of the thrid quarter and the extra point made it 24-14. That’s as close as Missouri got. They failed on two fourth and one attempts, botched a fake field goal attempt, had a punt blocked and Brad Smith threw an interception near the end zone. Zack Abron ended his career as a Missouri Tiger with 137 yards and a touchdown while Brad Smith passed for 155 yards and rushed for 96 yards. Cedric Cobbs had 141 yards and TD for the Razobacks. Mizzou ended the season with a record of 8-5.
