Clinging to a two-point lead on Arkansas, Missouri needed a first down to preserve its drive and extend its season.
The Tigers had just the play — and just the playmaker in mind.
Sixth-year slot receiver Barrett Banister would have been the natural choice, the trusty veteran who sells T-shirts emblazoned with his team nickname: “Third and Banister.”
But he was on the sideline Saturday, out with an injury, helplessly watching his teammates against his hometown Razorbacks.
Instead, the Tigers turned to their freshman wide receiver. No, not that freshman wide receiver.