CFB preview: No. 15 Missouri vs. No. 10 Vanderbilt

The last time these two teams played, it was a close affair. Even though Mizzou beat Vanderbilt in basically every team statistic, the unranked Commodores didn’t make it easy for the top 25 Tigers. However, Mizzou ultimately got the victory by a three-point margin.

Now they are both in the top 15 and in the hunt for a playoff position. Vandy will have home-field advantage for this high-stakes tilt.

Last week, Vanderbilt beat the No. 10 LSU Tigers 31-24. Senior Quarterback Diego Pavia has been the talk of the town in Vandy as he put up another stellar performance at home.

Pavia slung the rock 93.1 QBR, 160 passing yards and a touchdown pass. He also rushed 17 times for 86 yards and two more touchdowns.

Vandy’s run game could be an issue for Mizzou on Saturday. Their rushing attack, led by Pavia and senior running back Makhilyn Young, rushed for 239 yards last Saturday.

Lining up on the other side of the pigskin from Vandy will be the Missouri Tigers. The Tigers couldn’t seem to find their footing in a 23-17 win over Auburn last weekend.

Redshirt Junior quarterback Beau Pribula seems to have an interception problem, as he threw two picks in that game. However, he did throw the ball for 252 yards and 23 completions.

Their rushing attack only combined for 91 yards on the day. The Tigers will need more from Sophomore running back Ahmad Hardy if they want a chance at winning against a hot Vanderbilt squad.

Their performance against Auburn may have been the effect of a trap game, but it could have also revealed some weaknesses on this talented Missouri team.

If the Tigers are going to win this one, it will be because of their stout defense. They currently rank fifth in yards allowed, only letting up 243 per game.

Since Vanderbilt’s offense is ultimately focused on its rushing attack, this game will come down to the wire. Every inch will matter for both teams.

On Saturday, an unstoppable force will meet an immovable object. Hard-nose boots on the ground, football will be played in Nashville.

Kickoff is at 3:30 p.m.

Will Saltzman is a first-year majoring in Broadcast Journalism. To contact him, email wns5056@psu.edu