Missouri rallied from a 10-point deficit, defeating Iowa 27-24 in the thrilling Music City Bowl. Blake Craig played a pivotal role by kicking two field goals in the fourth quarter, including a decisive 56-yarder with 4:36 remaining.
After falling behind 24-14, the Tigers ignited their comeback, scoring the last 13 points of the game. Brady Cook showcased his skills, throwing for 287 yards and two touchdowns. Joshua Manning contributed significantly, rushing for a touchdown, while Marquis Johnson had a standout performance with 122 receiving yards and a touchdown catch.
With this victory, Missouri (10-3, ranked No. 19 in the CFP) achieved its eighth 10-win season in program history, solidifying its position as a competitive force.
On the other hand, Iowa (8-5) faced disappointment, suffering its second consecutive bowl loss. Head coach Kirk Ferentz remains one win shy of tying Woody Hayes for the most victories in Big Ten history, and his 10 bowl wins keep him in a tie with Joe Paterno.
The Hawkeyes struggled in their final possessions, going three-and-out twice, with their last drive ending near midfield with just 1:54 left on the clock.
Defensive end Johnny Walker of Missouri recorded his second sack of the game, contributing to a strong defensive stand. The Tigers halted Iowa just short of the first down on both third and fourth down, igniting celebrations and chants of “S-E-C” among their fans.
Iowa initially took control, with Terrell Washington Jr. catching a 6-yard touchdown pass from Brendan Sullivan and Kaden Wetjen returning a kickoff for 100 yards, giving the Hawkeyes a 14-7 lead.
Brady Cook started strong, completing 8 of his first 9 passes for 111 yards. He connected with Theo Wease for an 8-yard touchdown and later found Johnson for a 7-yard score early in the second quarter.
Iowa extended its lead to 21-14 at halftime with a 1-yard touchdown run from Kamari Moulton, followed by a 38-yard field goal from Drew Stevens in the third quarter.
The Tigers began their comeback with Manning’s touchdown late in the third quarter. A pivotal moment came when Toriano Pride Jr. intercepted a pass from Sullivan. Craig then tied the game with a 51-yard field goal before kicking the game-winner.
The Takeaways
For Missouri, the absence of Theo Wease in the second half due to an upper body injury was a significant blow. He had registered five catches for 75 yards and a touchdown by halftime. Luther Burden, who led the team with 61 catches this season, opted out of the game to prepare for the NFL Draft, watching from the sidelines.
Despite these setbacks, Cook found his rhythm again, thanks to contributions from Daniel Blood and Johnson, who set up Manning’s touchdown with a 44-yard reception.
Iowa, missing Big Ten rushing leader Kaleb Johnson, who opted out for the NFL Draft, saw Moulton rush for 96 yards on 14 carries, while Jaziun Patterson added 74 yards.
Up Next
Missouri will kick off its season on August 30, hosting Central Arkansas. Coach Eli Drinkwitz will welcome Beau Pribula from Penn State as the new quarterback, filling the spot left by Cook.
Iowa will also begin its season on August 30, hosting Albany. Coach Ferentz has added Hank Brown from Auburn to enhance competition and depth at the quarterback position.
