Missouri QB Beau Pribula Progressing Through Rehab, Future Return Still Uncertain

Missouri football received a glimmer of hope following what initially appeared to be a season-ending injury to quarterback Beau Pribula against Vanderbilt. Early concerns suggested a broken leg, but subsequent reports indicated a serious sprain with ligament damage that might allow Pribula to return before the season concludes, according to CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz.

The injury occurred when Pribula dislocated his ankle, though he avoided any fractures. His recovery has been gradual and unpredictable, leaving his availability uncertain from week to week, per On3. Ahead of Missouri’s matchup with Mississippi State, he was initially listed as doubtful before ultimately being ruled out despite participating in pregame warmups without a brace.

Missouri head coach Eliah Drinkwitz provided an update on Tuesday ahead of the Tigers’ upcoming clash with Oklahoma. He said Pribula is “working through his rehab process” with the team’s medical staff and emphasized that his status will depend on how he progresses throughout the week.

Pribula’s importance to the team is clear. Before his injury, he started Missouri’s first eight games, completing nearly 70 percent of his passes for 1,685 yards, 11 touchdowns, and seven interceptions, while contributing 220 rushing yards and five scores on the ground. He is both the Tigers’ primary offensive leader and their third-leading rusher.

1. Zollers Steps Into the Spotlight

In Pribula’s absence, true freshman Matt Zollers has been thrust into a starting role. The adjustment has been challenging, particularly against Texas A&M, where he went 7-of-22 for 77 yards. However, Zollers showed improvement in the subsequent game against Mississippi State, completing 8-of-15 passes for 112 yards with two touchdowns and one interception. The coaching staff is carefully managing the offensive scheme to accommodate Zollers’ first-year experience. Play-calling has been simplified, giving the young quarterback a chance to gain confidence without being overwhelmed. Despite the difficulties, Zollers’ performances demonstrate potential, offering Missouri a temporary solution while Pribula continues his rehabilitation. His ability to handle high-pressure situations will be crucial if the Tigers hope to remain competitive in the SEC. Missouri’s offensive production has inevitably dipped without Pribula, but the team has managed to stay in the conversation for New Year’s Six bowl consideration and College Football Playoff fringes. Zollers’ development will play a key role in maintaining those aspirations.

2. Pribula’s Rehab and Missouri’s Postseason Outlook

The timeline for Pribula’s return remains uncertain. The coaching staff is closely monitoring his rehab, which includes both strength training and mobility exercises aimed at restoring his ankle to game-ready condition. Any rush to return could risk further injury, making caution a priority. If Pribula is able to return before the season ends, Missouri’s offense would receive a major boost. His dual-threat ability as a passer and rusher makes him a central figure in both short-yardage and explosive plays, and his leadership has been vital in guiding the team through competitive SEC matchups. The Tigers’ postseason hopes are intertwined with Pribula’s health. While Missouri remains in contention for high-profile bowl games, a return to peak form could determine whether the team climbs into the College Football Playoff discussion or settles for a lower-tier New Year’s Six bowl. Ultimately, Missouri is taking a measured approach, balancing Pribula’s recovery with the need to remain competitive. His progress over the coming weeks will be decisive in shaping the Tigers’ finish to the 2025 season.

3. Looking Ahead for Missouri

Missouri’s postseason hopes are still alive, but much hinges on quarterback availability. Pribula’s potential return would provide a significant boost to the offense, restoring leadership and dual-threat capabilities that are hard to replace. The coaching staff continues to weigh progress reports, medical updates, and practice observations before making any decisions regarding Pribula’s playing status. Each week presents both opportunity and risk in the team’s push toward a strong finish. Meanwhile, Zollers’ experience as a starter will shape the team’s offensive identity if Pribula remains sidelined. Missouri has demonstrated resilience in managing injuries, but returning a player of Pribula’s caliber could dramatically impact the Tigers’ postseason trajectory. As Missouri prepares for the upcoming clash with Oklahoma, all eyes will remain on the progress of their veteran quarterback and the continued adaptation of their young signal-caller.