The 11th-ranked University of Missouri football team dominated their season opener against Murray State, breezing to a 51-0 victory in front of a sold-out crowd of 62,621 fans at Faurot Field. Mizzou picked up their 17th consecutive home win against a non-conference team and their 24th season opener win in the last 28 years. It was their first shutout since 2020 and their first season-opening shutout since 1998.
The Tigers came out firing, scoring four touchdowns in just the first 12 minutes to take a commanding 28-0 lead. Mizzou outgained Murray State 489 yards to 85, racking up 29 first downs compared to the Racers’ 5. Murray State hardly got past midfield, only managing one play in Mizzou territory.
The game started with a bang as Mizzou recovered an onside kick and swiftly moved downfield for their first touchdown. Luther Burden III broke a tackle after a catch from quarterback Brady Cook for a 16-yard touchdown, setting the tone early. The defense was equally impressive, stopping Murray State on a critical fourth down and inches play on the next drive and Mizzou scored again on a touchdown run from Nate Noel three plays later.
Newcomer Toriano Pride Jr. made a big impact with a 25-yard interception return for a touchdown on Murray State’s next play and the Tigers were up 21-0 just 5:19 into the game.
By halftime, Mizzou was up 35-0, with Cook adding a rushing touchdown. The second half continued much the same, with more touchdowns and a solid performance from backup quarterback Drew Pyne, who orchestrated scoring drives of his own that included three field goals from Blake Craig.
Mizzou stays home for their next game against Buffalo, scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 7 at 6 p.m. at Faurot Field.
