Missouri Tigers defeat Arkansas-Pine Bluff in season opener at Faurot Field

Missouri opened its 2026 football season with a 54-14 victory over Arkansas-Pine Bluff at Faurot Field on September 3. Quarterback Austin Simmons completed 17 of 19 passes for 280 yards and four touchdowns during the first half, helping the Tigers build a 40-0 lead before halftime. Sophomore receiver Donovan Olugbode led the offensive effort with eight catches for 116 yards and two touchdowns, while the defense held the Golden Lions to just six total yards in the first two quarters. Although the starters dominated early, Missouri head coach Eli Drinkwitz noted inconsistency from second-half depth units as Arkansas-Pine Bluff matched the Tigers with 14 points after the break. The victory provides an initial look at the team’s aerial focus, despite expectations that the running game would anchor the offensive production.

• 3:29 AMYahoo Sports — Simmons, Olugbode Connection Fuels Mizzou to Season Opening Rout