Missouri’s offense faced a significant setback in the Music City Bowl against Iowa as leading receiver Theo Wease Jr. has been ruled out for the remainder of the game due to an upper body injury. This news comes from ESPN sideline reporter Alyssa Lang, who provided updates during the broadcast.
Wease’s injury occurred after a hard hit from Iowa defensive back Xavier Nwankpa, which raised concerns for Missouri’s offensive strategy. Lang reported, “As Missouri’s offense takes the field for the first time in this second half, they’ll do so in this half without wide receiver Theo Wease Jr. Already coming into this game without star wide receiver Luther Burden, opting out of this bowl game, I’m told that Theo Wease Jr. is dealing with an upper body injury. Still in the locker room being evaluated but that he will not return to this game.”
Impact of Wease’s Absence
The loss of Wease is particularly impactful as he entered the Music City Bowl with impressive stats: 55 catches for 809 yards and three touchdowns. He was not only second on the team in receptions but also the leading receiver in yards for the Tigers. With his absence, Missouri’s offense is left scrambling for alternatives to fill the void left by two of their top receivers.
In addition to Wease, Missouri is also without star receiver Luther Burden, who declared for the 2025 NFL Draft prior to the bowl game. Burden had a stellar season, catching 61 passes for 676 yards and six touchdowns in 2024, contributing significantly to Missouri’s successful 9-3 record. His decision to opt out means the Tigers are now missing two of their most dynamic playmakers.
The Burden Legacy
Luther Burden’s journey at Missouri has been nothing short of remarkable. A Missouri native, he chose to play for his home state after being ranked as the top receiver and the No. 3 overall player in the class of 2022, according to On3 Industry rankings. From his freshman year, Burden made an immediate impact, finishing with 45 catches for 375 yards and six touchdowns.
Fast forward to 2023, and Burden had the best year of his college career, hauling in 86 passes for an astonishing 1,212 yards and nine touchdowns. His contributions were pivotal in helping Missouri achieve an impressive 11-2 record, including a memorable victory over Ohio State in the Cotton Bowl. Burden’s performance solidified his status as a top-tier receiver in college football.
Looking Ahead: The NFL Draft
As Burden prepares for the next chapter in his career, he is expected to be one of the first receivers off the board in the 2025 NFL Draft. ESPN NFL Draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. has recently updated his big board, placing Burden as the No. 19 overall player in the draft. The only receivers ranked higher are Travis Hunter from Colorado and Tetairoa McMillan from Arizona. This recognition speaks volumes about Burden’s talent and potential at the professional level.
Despite the injury issues that plagued Missouri throughout the season, Burden’s consistent performances helped the Tigers secure nine wins in 2024. His ability to adapt and thrive under pressure has been a hallmark of his career, making him a player to watch as he transitions to the NFL.
What’s Next for Missouri?
With both Wease and Burden sidelined, Missouri will need to rally and find new ways to generate offense in the Music City Bowl. The coaching staff will have to rely on other players to step up and fill the gaps left by these star receivers. Who will emerge as the next big playmaker for the Tigers? This is a crucial moment for the team, and it will be fascinating to see how they adapt in the face of adversity.
The Music City Bowl is not just a game; it’s an opportunity for other players to shine and for Missouri to showcase its depth. The absence of key players can often lead to unexpected heroes rising to the occasion. Fans will be eagerly watching to see who will take on the challenge and help propel the Tigers forward.
In the world of college football, injuries and player decisions can dramatically shift the landscape. Missouri’s situation is a stark reminder of how quickly things can change. As the game unfolds, one thing is certain: the spirit of college football is alive and well, and the passion of the players and fans will continue to drive the excitement of the game.
