TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — In the week leading up to its game at No. 15 Alabama on Saturday, No. 21 Missouri was surrounded by an odd amount of confidence.
It was odd, or maybe just unexpected, because the Tigers’ starting quarterback began the week doubtful to play with a high ankle sprain and their backup had taken most of the first-team reps in practice. That made them two-touchdown underdogs when they entered sold-out Bryant-Denny Stadium, which does not seem like a recipe for confidence.
Yet quarterback Brady Cook had given Mizzou a dose of confidence. As his status improved — from doubtful to questionable to game-time decision to on-the-field — it seemed like MU might have a chance.