When Coach Drinkwitz was first hired, many Missouri fans had their eyes closely tied to National Signing Day, when they’d find out which of Missouri’s recruits would stay true to the black and gold despite the change in regime.

Quietly, as the signings rolled in, Drinkwitz snuck out an offer to another recruit, one with a familiar last name.

Chance is the son of Curtis Luper, one of Drinkwitz’s first hires to his new staff. After having been committed to Boise State for a long time, Luper didn’t sign a NLI on December 18... but he didn’t decommit either. Then, just about one month later:

100% open is a fun phrase, right? The writing seemed to be on the wall, especially after a weekend visit last weekend. Late on Thursday night, Drink sent up the bat signal. And half an hour later, it was official.

Luper becomes the second commit of the day, joining 2021 TE Gavin McKay. He’s also the second WR to commit in the past week following graduate transfer Damon Hazelton, Jr.

Get to know: Chance Luper

Hometown: North Richland Hills, TX

High School: Forth Worth Christian

Position: WR

Ht/Wt: 6’2”, 180 lbs.

Rivals Ranking: 2-star, 5.4

247Composite Ranking: 3-star, 0.8484

Total announced offers: 17

Offers to note: Boise State, California, Louisville, Virginia

Luper may not have the world’s fleetest feet, but he’s got two things that all wide receivers need — size and hands. It’s clear that when Fort Worth Christian needed someone to go up and get the ball (and get it in the end zone), Luper was reliable. He may be more of a project, but it’s hard to see an offensive coach like Drinkwitz recruiting a player just because of family ties.

What they’re saying:

Welcome, Chance! We can’t wait to see you and your dad on the sideline together! M-I-Z!