Missouri head coach Eli Drinkwitz often emphasizes "blocking out the noise" around his team. Yet, after a thrilling 30-23 victory over Oklahoma, it became clear he hadn’t entirely tuned it out—especially remarks from legendary Sooners coach Bob Stoops.

A Comeback Victory for the Ages

The Tigers scored an incredible 14 points in the game’s final 63 seconds, overcoming Oklahoma and securing one of the season’s most stunning comebacks. Missouri’s defensive end, Zion Young, clinched the victory with a scoop-and-score play with only 30 seconds remaining after backup quarterback Drew Pyne connected with former Sooner Theo Wease Jr. for a touchdown at the 1:03 mark. The thrilling conclusion saw both teams combine for a remarkable 28 points in the last three minutes and 18 seconds, with Oklahoma scoring twice in that span before Missouri’s final surge.

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Currently, Missouri holds a record of 7-2 and 3-2 in SEC competition, displaying an impressive season. The game, a marquee matchup on Missouri’s schedule, sold out quickly as fans eagerly anticipated a reunion of the former Big 12 and Big Eight rivals on Faurot Field. Although Oklahoma historically leads the series 67-24-5, the Tigers’ victory has thrown a new chapter into the storied matchup.

Stoops’ Offseason Comments Fuel Missouri’s Fire

Stoops’ offseason comments questioning Missouri’s strength as an SEC opponent didn’t go unnoticed. During an interview with ESPN’s Jake Trotter, Stoops commented, “We beat the hell out of Missouri… Now suddenly, we’re supposed to be afraid of them?”

Drinkwitz obviously heeded those words. “This will be very disappointing to Bob Stoops,” he said after the game, “but OU doesn’t always dominate Missouri like they used to anymore.”

The Missouri coach admitted that Stoops’ comments served as motivation for his team. “"Coach Stoops certainly stirred the pot effectively this summer," he said."Our guys were **prepared.**" Missouri’s victory wasn’t just a reaction to Stoops—it was a crucial moment for the Tigers as they move forward, **gaining** momentum in the SEC.

Drew Pyne’s Redemption Story

Saturday’s game also showcased a redemptive moment for Missouri’s Drew Pyne. Filling in for injured starter Brady Cook, Pyne became the first quarterback other than Cook to start for the Tigers since 2021. Pyne faced an uphill battle, having thrown three interceptions in his last appearance against Alabama. Yet, his performance against Oklahoma silenced critics and marked a turning point for his season.

“"I can’t even put into words how proud I am of Drew Pyne for all he’s had to go through," Drinkwitz remarked. "To see him come out, shut out the noise, and step up in those critical fourth-quarter moments, especially after facing boos—that’s truly remarkable."

Missouri's Season Continues Strong

With a record of 7-2, Missouri has already won more than six games for the second consecutive year under Drinkwitz’s leadership. The Tigers’ 3-2 SEC record positions them for another potential double-digit win season.

On the other hand, Oklahoma’s season is on shakier ground. With a record of 5-5 and a 1-5 mark in SEC play, the Sooners need a win against either Alabama or LSU to become bowl-eligible in their first SEC season.

Missouri’s Grit Shines Through

After the game, Drinkwitz praised his team’s resilience. "We love y’all when you’re cheering for us, and when you’re not, we just keep on rolling. We’re gritty. We’re really, really gritty.”

Missouri’s victory over Oklahoma showcased not just skill, but determination—a testament to the Tigers’ tenacity as they continue to impress in the SEC.

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