SEC Power Rankings, Week 11: Alabama back on top with big win vs LSU

Nov 5, 2015; Columbia, MO, USA; Missouri Tigers running back Russell Hansbrough (32) dives into the end zone for a touchdown against the Mississippi State Bulldogs during the first half at Faurot Field. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

On the bright side, Missouri scored a touchdown. Finally.

Heading into Thursday night’s game against Mississippi State, the Tigers had not scored a TD in 40 consecutive series – a period that stretched more than three full games over the course of more than a month. But, trailing 14-6 late in the second quarter, running back Russell Hansbrough found the end zone on a 14-yard run to snap the streak and pull Mizzou to within one point just before half time.

It was a silver lining on what was a very rainy night in Columbia, which ended in a 31-13 loss for the Tigers, who fell to 4-5 overall and 1-5 in the SEC.

Hansbrough finished with 62 rushing yards on 16 carries and looked healthier than he has all season. Mizzou also got a strong performance from Ish Witter (81 rushing yards on 12 carries) and Tyler Hunt (85 rushing yards on six carries including a 72-yarder), with the Tigers offensive line providing a good push up front in the running game.

The line was less successful pass blocking, however, and true freshman quarterback Drew Lock completed just 11 of 26 pass attempts for 107 yards often under heavy pressure. Lock was intercepted twice.

Missouri’s defense, which came in as one of the best statistical units in the country, was exposed by Mississippi State and quarterback Dak Prescott. The Tigers forced two turnovers, and Missouri also blocked a punt, but the Bulldogs rolled to 430 total yards and were the first opponent this season to score more than 21 points in a game against Mizzou.

Next week’s game against BYU (assuming it happens with tensions rising on campus and Missouri players protesting the university president) has major implications as the Tigers scratch and claw to become bowl eligible with three games left on the schedule.

Next Game: Saturday November 15 vs. BYU (in Kansas City, MO)

Next: South Carolina