After back-to-back losses, Murray State looks to bounce back as they go on the road to take on Missouri State University.
Setting the record straight
Both teams have a 2-4 record overall and a 1-2 record in Missouri Valley Football Conference play.
Losses for Missouri State include a 48-17 loss against the University of Kansas, a 33-20 loss to Southern Illinois, and a 38-10 loss to North Dakota State.
In the matchup history, Murray State has defeated the Bears eight times, while Missouri State has won three times. The Racers won the first matchup 24-6 in a 1982 home game… Missouri State has won the last two matchups in 2016 and 2017.
Keys to the game
For the first five games of the season, Murray State has used multiple running backs throughout the season, and it seemed to work for the Racers. That was until they ran into a brick wall of a defense against SIU, rushing for just 28 yards.
Missouri State has allowed 1,358 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns across six games and has rushed for 848 yards. The Racers success could come from the rushing offense this week, and junior running back Cortezz Jones could be the one to lead the charge.
The Bears passing offense is keeping the gears turning at Missouri State as they have passed for 1,798 yards and 15 touchdowns. With the Racers’ defense struggling with the pass this season, that could be the point of attack for the Bears’ offense.
Players to watch
Jones has gained 304 rushing yards so far in 2023, resulting in three touchdowns. . He’s not the only running back to get meaningful minutes for the Racers this season, but he leads the way in stats and could be the answer for the rushing game going forward.
Junior quarterback Jordan Pachot has stepped in for the Bears as starting QB for the last two weeks. Over his four games played this season, he’s passed for 780 yards, five touchdowns and four interceptions. If he can cut down on the interception and hit his mark on passing, he could lead the Bears to a higher record.
Where to watch
The Bears host the Racers at 2 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 21. The game will be streamed on ESPN+ for fans who can’t make the trip.
