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Questions ahead of Mizzou’s top-15 matchup in Oxford

Missouri Tigers enter Saturday’s SEC showdown against ninth-ranked Mississippi with a tight end room facing an unexpected test. Brett Norfleet, the unit’s leading target with 14 of 15 passes directed his way, was downgraded to doubtful after Thursday’s injury report, leaving Jordon Harris and Jude James as the only viable options.

Harris, primarily a run blocker with 200 of his 223 offensive snaps in blocking roles, and James, who has seen just 69 snaps this season, will need to step up significantly if the Tigers plan to utilize their tight ends in the passing game. Ole Miss has allowed opposing tight ends to exceed 30 receiving yards in four of their last five contests, presenting a rare opportunity for Mizzou’s unit to make an impact.

Defensively, Missouri’s linebacker corps is also navigating key absences ahead of the road game. Jeremiah Beasley, the team’s third-most-used linebacker with 110 snaps, is doubtful, while Robert Woodyard Jr.

remains questionable. The Tigers will face Mississippi’s toughest quarterback challenge of the season, just three weeks after their last high-profile matchup against Kamario Taylor.

With the game looming, Mizzou’s depth and adaptability will be put to the test in Oxford.

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