The Missouri Tigers defeated the Arizona State Sun Devils 24-20 on Saturday night in Columbia, Missouri. After building a big lead, Missouri needed an interception at the goal line to turn away Arizona State and secure the win.
After building a 24-7 lead, Missouri allowed two scores early in the fourth quarter as Arizona State began a comeback. Running back Marion Grice put both scores in the endzone for the Sun Devils, cutting the deficit to 24-20. The second touchdown should have made it a three-point game, but Arizona State mishandled the snap on the point-after.
The Sun Devils would get a final shot with two minutes left in the game. A 25-yard punt return from Jamal Miles, who gave Missouri a 15-yard field in the first quarter with a fumbled return, set up Arizona State with a 21-yard field. On third down, however, ASU quarterback Taylor Kelly threw an interception to Kenronte Walker at the goal line, and Missouri hung on to the win.
Freshman Corbin Berkstresser was 21-41 for 198 yards in his first start, filling in for the injured James Franklin. Kelly was 14-23 for 177 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions for ASU in the loss.
Box Score Hero: T.J. Moe, Missouri receiver. While 88 yards on eight receptions doesn't stand out much, Moe was there for big plays whenever the freshman Berkstresser needed him.
Rankings Ramifications: Neither team entered the game ranked, and Missouri is unlikely to become ranked as it was not receiving votes before this win.
But Did They Cover? Missouri was favored by 4, so by virtue of a missed PAT, the Tigers cover.
For More On This Game: More commentary on the Arizona State Sun Devils can be found at House Of Sparky. For more on the Missouri Tigers, visit Rock M Nation.
Next Week's Schedule: Arizona State prepares to host Utah, while Missouri travels to #8 South Carolina.
