The Missouri Tigers faced a nail-biting challenge against the Oklahoma Sooners on Saturday night, but they emerged victorious despite being down to their backup quarterback, Drew Pyne. This game was not just a test of skill; it was a testament to the resilience and grit of the entire team.
Backing Up the Backup
After the game, head coach Eli Drinkwitz stood by Pyne with unwavering support. He passionately defended his quarterback against the criticism that has circulated in the media and on social platforms. Drinkwitz made it clear that Pyne’s performance, particularly in the high-pressure moments of the game, deserved recognition.
“I just can’t say how proud I am of Drew Pyne for all the crap he’s taken,” Drinkwitz stated emphatically. “You know, I feel like I’m up here all the time having to defend my quarterback, which is not great, but for all the crap he’s taken on Twitter and X, for him to come out here, ignore the noise… He goes out there and delivers in the keyest moments in the fourth quarter after fans have been booing. He just goes out there and delivers.”
Drew Pyne’s Journey
Drew Pyne, a transfer from both Notre Dame and Arizona State, found himself thrust into the spotlight due to an injury to starting quarterback Brady Cook. This was not the first time Pyne had faced adversity; earlier in the season, he struggled in relief appearances against tough opponents like Auburn and Alabama. With the stakes high and doubts lingering, Pyne was determined to prove himself against the Sooners.
In the lead-up to the game, many expressed concerns about Pyne’s ability to lead the team effectively. Coming into this matchup, he had completed 35 out of 55 passes for 248 yards, with three interceptions—all of which occurred against Alabama. However, Drinkwitz remained steadfast in his belief in Pyne’s capabilities.
Resilience Amidst Adversity
Injuries have plagued the Tigers all season long, affecting various positions on the roster. This ongoing struggle has only fueled Drinkwitz’s pride in his team’s ability to adapt and overcome. “You have the injuries and you have your backup quarterback and your center goes down,” he explained. “That’s another thing. Drake Heismeyer goes in for the whole time after Theo Wease‘s touchdown on the screen, and we didn’t miss a beat. So, extremely proud of everybody on that team for just doing their job and doing it as well as they possibly could no matter the circumstance.”
Turning the Tide
As the game progressed, Drew Pyne showcased his growth and determination. He had a season-high in completions, yards, and touchdowns, leading the Tigers to a critical victory over the Sooners. His performance was not just about numbers; it was about heart and grit. “Drew is a competitor. He had a great two weeks of practice,” Drinkwitz noted. “We had a game plan that fit exactly who he was. I mean, he was excellent. 11 for 19 on third downs. Just excellent. Pushing up in the pocket. Making big-time throws to Luther Burden. So, there wasn’t a shadow of doubt within this building. Within this building, there’s no doubt.”
Embracing the Challenge
What makes this victory even more impressive is how the team rallied around their backup quarterback. “That’s the thing I love about this team is we love y’all when you’re cheering for us, and when you’re not, we just keep on rolling,” Drinkwitz said. “We’re gritty. We’re really, really gritty… So, extremely proud of our guys. Extremely proud of Drew Pyne.”
In a game where the odds seemed stacked against them, the Tigers proved that their spirit and determination could not be easily broken. They not only survived but thrived, showcasing the depth of their roster and the strength of their character.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, the Missouri Tigers have set a standard for resilience and teamwork. With a backup quarterback stepping up in a crucial moment, they have shown that they can adapt and overcome challenges. The road ahead may still be fraught with obstacles, but with players like Drew Pyne and the unwavering support of their coach, the Tigers are ready to tackle whatever comes next.
In the world of college football, where every game can define a season, the Missouri Tigers have made a statement. They are not just a team; they are a force to be reckoned with. And as they continue to fight through adversity, one thing is clear: the heart of this team beats strong.
