In a thrilling and dramatic conclusion to the regular season, Missouri football celebrated a hard-fought 28-21 victory over Arkansas on a snowy Faurot Field. Quarterback Brady Cook, in his last game as a Tiger, took the game into his own hands during a crucial drive with just over four minutes remaining.
Facing a one-point deficit and needing to cover 75 yards, Cook orchestrated an impressive eight-play drive that culminated in a 30-yard touchdown run. He followed up with a successful 2-point conversion pass to fellow senior Luther Burden III, securing a seven-point lead for his team.
The Tigers’ defense also played a pivotal role in the victory, with senior defensive end Johnny Walker Jr. forcing two key fumbles during the game. One fumble recovery set up an early touchdown by Marcus Carroll, while another late in the third quarter led to a second Carroll touchdown, allowing Missouri to stay competitive as the game unfolded.
Despite a slow start offensively, Cook’s resilience and leadership shone through when it mattered most. His ability to connect with teammates and drive the ball down the field was crucial, especially considering the challenging playing conditions due to the snow.
The game’s final moments showcased the intensity as Arkansas surged back, but Cook and the Missouri defense held strong, ensuring a memorable victory as they honored the senior players in front of their home crowd.
This triumphant win adds a hopeful note as Missouri heads into the off-season, highlighting the team’s potential and spirit, which could carry them into future successes. The resilience demonstrated in this final game not only wrapped up the season on a high note but also instills optimism that the program can build on this momentum moving forward.