Missouri football prepares for season opener against Arkansas-Pine Bluff

The Missouri Tigers football team begins its 2026 season this Thursday with a home game against Arkansas-Pine Bluff at the University of Missouri. Head coach Eli Drinkwitz and team captains Dominick Giudice and Santana Banner discussed the program's 135th season during a session at Harpo’s in Columbia. Drinkwitz noted the team expects a sold-out crowd and high temperatures for the night game. The coach highlighted the physical preparation during fall camp and addressed the development of players including Austin Simmons. Missouri will feature new offensive schemes introduced by offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey, quarterbacks coach Garrett Riley and tight ends coach Alex Atkins. The team continues preparations for the upcoming matchup as the coaching staff transitions leadership responsibilities to the newly voted captains.

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