The 2025 campaign for the Missouri Tigers began with high hopes, but the team quickly faced a cascade of setbacks that reshaped its outlook.
A torn ACL suffered by starting kicker Blake Craig in the season opener against Central Arkansas not only removed a reliable leg but also exposed a thin depth chart at the kicking position.
The kicking conundrum
With Craig sidelined, the coaching staff turned to a trio of less‑experienced options, including Robert Meyer, Oliver Robbins and Ryder Goodwin, each of whom brought a different set of limitations.
The lack of a long‑range threat forced the offense to rely more heavily on short‑yardage plays, constraining third‑down strategies and allowing defenses to key in on the running game.
Quarterback turbulence
Freshman Matt Zollers was thrust into the starting role, becoming the first true freshman quarterback to start for Missouri since Drew Lock in 2015, a transition that highlighted both promise and inexperience.
The quarterback room was hit hard when Sam Horn was knocked out on his very first snap, and Beau Pribula later dislocated his ankle in the eighth game, ending his season prematurely.
Despite offseason work that saw Craig add weight and convert two 40‑yard field goals in the opener, his availability remains the linchpin for any offensive resurgence.
The Tigers have bolstered the kicking unit by re‑signing Craig and Robbins while also acquiring Brunno Reus through the transfer portal, hoping the added competition will restore confidence.
If Craig can stay on the field and regain his previous accuracy, Missouri could reclaim a more balanced attack and compete more effectively in the conference.