Beau Pribula Set to Return for Missouri vs. Oklahoma Showdown

The No. 22 Missouri Tigers are preparing for a high-stakes SEC clash with the No. 8 Oklahoma Sooners in Week 13, a game that could have major College Football Playoff implications. After missing the last two games with a dislocated ankle, senior quarterback Beau Pribula is set to return to the lineup, providing a boost to Missouri’s offense.

Pribula suffered the ankle injury during Missouri’s 17-10 Week 9 victory over Vanderbilt and has since undergone a recovery process that has kept him sidelined. Reports from ESPN’s Pete Thamel indicate that the senior quarterback performed well in practice and is on track to start against the Sooners on Saturday.

“Sources: Missouri quarterback Beau Pribula is on track to return and start at No. 8 Oklahoma on Saturday, as he looked good in Missouri’s practice today,” Thamel reported. “He’s returning from a dislocated ankle on Oct. 25 at Vanderbilt, as he’s missed the last two games.”

Missouri’s offense has relied on true freshman Matt Zollers in Pribula’s absence. While Zollers showed promise, the return of an experienced leader like Pribula will provide stability and enhance Missouri’s chances of upsetting a top-10 opponent.

1. Pribula’s Impact and Season Stats

Before his injury, Pribula played in eight games this season, recording 1,685 passing yards and 220 rushing yards, along with 16 total touchdowns, 11 of which came through the air. He completed 69.6% of his pass attempts, showcasing his accuracy and decision-making ability. The senior quarterback’s experience will be invaluable for Missouri as they face a talented Oklahoma defense. Pribula’s leadership and familiarity with the offensive system are expected to provide a significant upgrade over Missouri’s recent performances without him. Having Pribula back under center also allows the Tigers to execute more complex game plans and maintain consistency throughout the contest. His presence gives Missouri a proven playmaker capable of making big plays when the stakes are highest. Missouri’s coaching staff has expressed confidence in Pribula’s recovery, emphasizing that he is ready to contribute immediately against a team with College Football Playoff aspirations.

2. Freshman Zollers’ Contributions

While Pribula has been sidelined, Missouri has leaned on 18-year-old freshman Matt Zollers. The true freshman started two games and appeared in seven overall, compiling 402 passing yards and four touchdowns with a 53.0% completion rate. Zollers’ performance highlighted his potential, and he helped the Tigers go 1-1 during Pribula’s absence. Although he showed flashes of talent, Missouri’s offense has been more conservative without an experienced quarterback at the helm. Zollers’ exposure to high-pressure SEC games will be invaluable for his development. Even with Pribula returning, Zollers remains a key backup who can contribute in specific packages or situational plays. The experience gained by Zollers provides the Tigers with depth at quarterback, giving head coach Eli Drinkwitz multiple options if adjustments are needed mid-game.

3. Stakes Against Oklahoma

Missouri has an opportunity to derail Oklahoma’s College Football Playoff hopes in Week 13. The Sooners are coming off a dramatic 23-21 win over Alabama, making them a formidable opponent at home. A Missouri victory would significantly impact the playoff landscape and provide a statement win for a Tigers program looking to climb the SEC rankings. Pribula’s return could be the deciding factor in a close, competitive game. Missouri’s defense will need to contain Oklahoma’s explosive offense, while Pribula must execute efficiently and protect the football. The combination of his leadership and skill will be crucial if the Tigers hope to pull off an upset. The outcome of this matchup could define Missouri’s season, providing either a signature win to highlight their campaign or a learning experience to build on as they move toward the postseason.