The Missouri Tigers fell 13-7 to Virginia in Saturday night’s Gator Bowl, failing to score after their opening drive. While Ahmad Hardy set a new single-season rushing record, the offense as a whole struggled.
True freshman quarterback Matt Zollers threw for just 101 yards and an interception, as the team managed only 260 total yards. Following the game, head coach Eli Drinkwitz took full responsibility for the offense’s lack of production.
“I didn’t do a good enough job calling plays tonight … it’s on me,” Drinkwitz said. “This is going to stick with me for a while, not doing enough to help them win.”
Tigers’ Offense Stumbles Under Drinkwitz’s Play-Calling
Missouri lost offensive coordinator Kirby Moore to a head coaching position just weeks before the Gator Bowl. Although Michigan’s Chip Lindsay was brought in to fill the vacancy, Drinkwitz assumed play-calling duties himself.
Oddly, Hardy carried the ball on only 15 of the team’s 32 rushing attempts and was off the field for several critical plays. His first touch in the second half did not come until four minutes remained, a puzzling usage of the All-American that contributed to the Tigers’ limited production in the final two periods.
It was a frustrating loss, especially given how winnable the game seemed. Missouri faced challenges with numerous offensive weapons unavailable due to transfers or injuries, but ultimately Drinkwitz was unable to maximize his unit’s potential. His candid acknowledgment suggests this defeat will weigh heavily on him for some time.
BREAKING:Missouri head coach Eli Drinkwitz assumes responsibility following the team’s Gator Bowl loss.
