Mizzou vs. Iowa: Emerging Stars and Defensive Redemption in a Thrilling Bowl Win
The end of the 2024 college football season has come, the curtain has finally closed. But for Mizzou fans, the curtain closes with a tone of optimism. The Tigers ended their year with a 27-24 win over Iowa in the Music City Bowl to claim their 10th win. This Mizzou squad once again showed resilience and a spirit defined by dramatic swings, clutch performances and the ability to dig their way back from a hole.
These weren’t your usual takeaways from this memorable matchup.
1. Brady Cook’s Legacy: A Career Defined by Winning
Sitting on his backside on the field, Brady Cook walked off for the last time as a Mizzou Tiger, not as quarterback but more specifically as a bona fide program legend. He became the latest senior quarterback to lead the Tigers to back-to-back 10 win seasons in an exclusive club consisting of Chase Daniel.
In his last outing, Cook delivered yet another masterclass: Two touchdowns, zero turnovers, 341 total yards. Cook’s dropped passes distort his stats, but his growth and leadership were on display Sunday. He showed his pinpoint accuracy, composure under pressure and then with his legs there were some nice plays.
Cook’s body of work since then—2023, 2024—answers for skeptics who doubted where his place should be among Mizzou’s best. A quarterback who didn’t just put up numbers, but consistently delivered wins will be remembered.
2. A Tale of Two Halves for Defense
Missing several key players, Iowa put up 21 points in the opening half, enough to sizzle pretty much any “Death Row” defense at Mizzou. The Tigers’ front seven troubles in containing Iowa’s backup backs and quarterback Brandon Sullivan didn’t help, either: A 100-yard Kickoff endian didn’t help.
But it was a completely different story in the second half. But defensive coordinator Corey Batoon made adjustments that turned the tide and the Tigers held Iowa to just three points. Toriano Pride Jr. intercepted a pass, Corey Flagg Jr. led a game-sealing fourth down stop among a host of critical plays in the defense fending off its biggest challenge all season.
But this defensive unit — a backbone of the Mizzou success this year — has shown the resilience and the talent, showing the ability to regroup and dominate after a shaky start.
3. In the Spotlight: Emerging Stars.
Their key offensive players Luther Burden III and Theo Wease Jr. were out, and the Tigers had to lean on new contributors to do the big-time lifting, and they did.
Receiver Marquis Johnson caught seven passes for 122 yards and a touchdown, the best game of his career. He stretched the field and his athleticism were so important. Freshmen Daniel Blood and Josh Manning also had their moments, including Manning’s end-zone appearance on a quick sweep.
Veterans Johnny Walker Jr. and Triston Newson both anchored the defense and helped a unit perform balanced effort from proven leaders and rising stars. And it bodes well for the future of the program that the mix is made up of experience and youthful energy.
4. Blake Craig: A Freshman Kicker with Ice Running Through His Veins
There’s nothing easy about replacing a legendary kicker like Harrison Mevis, but freshman Blake Craig proved he passed the test. A disappointing season was almost redeemed by Craig, who steadied in the clutch, sinking two game winning field goals from 51 and 56 yards in the fourth quarter.
Craig’ performance did not just put the questions to bed but also laid the foundation for a promising career. Because of his ability to deliver in those high pressure moments, Mizzou is going to need that guy going forward.
5. The Significance of 10 Wins
Some neglect the fact that bowl games are indeed glorified exhibitions, but, nevertheless, earning double figure wins is the stuff of meaning. It’s just the third time in program history Mizzou has turned in back-to-back 10-win seasons.
This is more than just a number, this is a statement. The win brings it further into the national spotlight, locks up big recruits and transfers, and solidifies head coach Eli Drinkwitz’s plan for the team. While the 2024 season didn’t quite live up to preseason expectations, the trajectory of Mizzou football has now definitely pointed upwards.
They are constructing a culture of sustained success, and they aren’t happy with mediocrity anymore. As fans, donors, and players look ahead, the standard is clear: But we’re here to compete at the highest level.
