Arlington, Texas (Trending SEO Keywords: Cotton Bowl Classic, Ohio State Buckeyes, Missouri Tigers, College Football Bowl Season, Bowl Game Picks): Missouri aims to break their four-game bowl losing streak as they face the formidable Ohio State Buckeyes in the 2023 Cotton Bowl Classic. While Ohio State boasts a 10-1-1 all-time record against the Tigers and enters as 5.5-point favorites, Missouri brings momentum and a potent running game to the table.
Ohio State’s Offensive Challenge:
The Buckeyes’ passing attack faces limitations without quarterback Kyle McCord and star receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. However, their ground game remains strong, led by TreVeyon Henderson who announced his participation. He’ll hope to replicate his recent form – scoring at least one touchdown in nine of his last ten games and exceeding 100 rushing yards in four of his last six. The pressure falls on sophomore quarterback Devin Brown, who has limited experience, to manage the game effectively.
Missouri’s Running Threat:
Led by senior running back Cody Schrader, Missouri boasts one of the nation’s best rushing teams. Schrader sits fourth in the country with 1,489 yards and has run for at least 100 yards in five straight games. He provides a consistent offensive weapon and could exploit Ohio State’s 24th-ranked run defense.
Additional Factors:
- Missouri’s sophomore wideout Luther Burden III, ranked 10th nationally in receiving yards, offers another offensive weapon for the Tigers.
- Ohio State’s defense, ranked third in the nation in total defense and first against the pass, will be a stern test for Missouri’s offense.
Prediction and Where to Find More:
SportsLine’s advanced computer model, boasting a strong profit record on top-rated college football picks, projects a combined score of 58 points, suggesting an offensive shootout. They also have a strong lean on one side of the spread, which you can discover by visiting their website.
Stay tuned for further updates and follow the thrilling clash between Missouri and Ohio State as they battle for bragging rights and to end their respective narratives in the Cotton Bowl Classic!