In a thrilling conclusion to a breakthrough season under fourth-year coach Eli Drinkwitz, No. 9 Missouri secured victory in the Cotton Bowl by defeating No. 7 Ohio State 14-3, concluding their season with an impressive 11-2 record. The Buckeyes managed to keep Mizzou scoreless for the first three quarters, but Cody Schrader broke the deadlock with a 7-yard touchdown run on the opening play of the fourth quarter.
With 5:12 remaining, Missouri extended their lead as Brady Cook orchestrated a 13-play, 91-yard drive, culminating in a 7-yard touchdown pass to Luther Burden. The Tigers’ defense held firm, securing their second-ever victory over Ohio State and their first since 1976.
Ohio State faced challenges, with freshman quarterback Lincoln Kienholz stepping in during the second quarter after Devin Brown suffered a high ankle sprain in his first career start. Additionally, star receiver and Heisman Trophy finalist Marvin Harrison Jr. opted out, contributing to the Buckeyes’ struggle to generate their usual offensive prowess. In a thrilling conclusion
Cody Schrader showcased an outstanding performance, amassing 128 yards rushing in the game, surpassing 1,600 yards for the season and breaking Missouri’s single-season rushing record previously held by Tyler Badie. Brady Cook contributed 128 yards passing and 66 rushing, rebounding from a slow start with six straight completions during a crucial phase in the second half.
Missouri running back Cody Schrader capped a memorable season with a big farewell performance. The former walk-on, who began his career at Division II Truman State, became just the third running back to surpass 100 yards against Ohio State this season. After beginning the fourth quarter with the game’s first touchdown, he helped put the game away on the Tigers’ next drive with nine rushes for 42 yards as Mizzou bled the clock with a 91-yard touchdown drive that ate 6:10 off the clock. It was a fitting sendoff for the school’s new all-time leading rusher.