FanPost

How Mizzou can lose Saturday

I'm not predicting a loss, nor suggesting that it would be a shocker if Nebraska won... so chill.

This is just how I could see it happening.  I am a Mizzou fan after all...

1) The offense sputters.

We've seen the offense stall earlier in the season.  Gabbert doesn't run it like a machine the way Daniel did when we went entire games without punting.  The Peso covers Mizzou's receivers effectively, taking away the first two options.  Gabbert gets happy feet again.  Balls are knocked away, WR are overthrown, the running game takes too long to develop and Nebraska swarms the ball.  A few three and outs, maybe a 7 play drive that only covers 30 yards, perhaps one that actually gets down to the red zone but Mizzou settles for a FG.  No explosive plays.  Meanwhile...

2) Nebraska goes on long scoring drives.

I don't think Mizzou's D will allow T. Martinez to race up and down the field like the ghost of Eric Crouch.  But let's say the Nebraska O-line gives him enough time to effectively run the zone read.  Sprinkle in a few effective PA passes, and Nebraska is able to drive the field and punch it in a couple of times.  Suddenly, it is halftime and Mizzou is down 17-3.

3) Gabbert begins to press.

The running game is mostly abandoned and Gabbert begins to throw the ball where he shouldn't.  A couple of INTs, maybe even a pick-6 are the result, much like last year.  Mizzou gets some desperation TDs towards the end, but the damage is done, Mizzou runs out of time, and Nebraska wins 34-20.

 

That's how I think Nebraska can win the game.  For some reason, I don't think it will be close at the end.  One team is going to win by more than a touchdown.  If the O doesn't get going early and the Huskers do, I fear this could be the result and everyone will say "told ya Mizzou wasn't for real!"

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