Missouri football fans get a detailed preview of the season opener on The MizzouToday Show, where hosts Kyle McAreavy and Kenny Van Doren break down Thursday’s clash with Central Arkansas at 6:30 p.m.
Quarterback plan for game day
The show outlines a planned quarterback rotation for the opener: Beau Pribula will start and play the first half, with Sam Horn stepping in for the second half. McAreavy noted the setup might feel uneven compared to last year’s competition, especially against a non-conference opponent like Central Arkansas, where the expectation is to build a sizable lead by halftime. Van Doren echoed head coach Eliah Drinkwitz’s approach, saying there’s no easy way to navigate the decision and that the 2023 system will be used again. The key message: expect continued offensive tempo in the second half, even with a planned substitution.
Depth chart highlights
Offense
– Jude James has climbed into the third tight end spot after an impressive camp and solid scrimmage performances, a development McAreavy called noteworthy.
– Van Doren pointed out that Gavin Hoffman did not crack the top tight end list this time around, which was a notable lineup decision.
Defense
– Marquis Gracial is listed as an -or- with Sterling Webb, marking a significant rise for Gracial, who moved from a fourth-year depth chart spot last season into a potential starting role.
– The safety group looks deep, with Van Doren emphasizing substantial depth at the position and hints that more players could contribute in the coming years.
Special teams and week-one expectations
The hosts also walk through the special teams depth chart, rounding out the picture of Missouri’s readiness for Week 1 and finishing with their score predictions for the game.
What to watch
– The quarterback rotation: how Pribula and Horn perform in their respective halves and how the team manages the game flow.
– Tight end competition: Jude James’ rise and Gavin Hoffman’s absence from the top group.
– Defensive depth: Gracial’s potential role and the overall safety room depth.
– Special teams impact: depth and contribution in a game that will set the tone for the early part of the season.
Summary and context
The episode offers a practical look at Missouri’s roster as the season opens, highlighting a QB strategy designed to balance evaluation with a comfortable early lead, along with notable movement on the depth chart at tight end and the defensive backfield. The discussion underscores a team with solid depth and a plan aimed at maximizing opportunity for both veterans and emerging players.
If you want more, the show invites listeners to join the discussion in the story thread.
Additional note
This preview suggests Missouri is leaning into competition across multiple positions and appears to be building a robust rotation, which could pay off as the schedule tightens later in the season. positive outlook: the depth in both the defensive backfield and tight end room signals upside and flexibility for the offense as it faces tougher opponents.