Alabama vs. Missouri Preview: SEC Powers Collide in Columbia

COLUMBIA, Mo. - October 11, 2025 - The No. 8 Alabama Crimson Tide (4–1, 2–0 SEC) travel to Memorial Stadium to face the undefeated No. 14 Missouri Tigers (5–0, 1–0 SEC) in a pivotal Week 7 matchup that could reshape the SEC standings. Kickoff is set for 11:00 a.m. CT and will be broadcast nationally on ABC.

This marks Alabama's third straight game against a ranked SEC opponent, while Missouri enters its toughest test of the season after a dominant non-conference run.

🔍 Team Overview

Alabama Crimson Tide

• Head Coach: Kalen DeBoer (13–2 vs. ranked teams)

• Last Game: Defeated Vanderbilt 30–14

• Key Stats:

• Points per game: 36.4

• Points allowed per game: 16.0

• Turnovers forced: 9

• QB Ty Simpson: 1,478 yards, 13 TDs, 1 INT

Missouri Tigers

• Head Coach: Eli Drinkwitz

• Last Game: Defeated UMass 42–6

• Key Stats:

• Points per game: 45.2

• Points allowed per game: 14.6

• RB Ahmad Hardy: 730 yards, 9 TDs

• QB Beau Pribula: 1,203 yards, 9 TDs, 3 INT

🧠 Key Matchups

1. Alabama's Defense vs. Ahmad Hardy Missouri's Hardy leads the nation in rushing and has topped 100 yards in seven straight games. Alabama's defense has allowed over 150 rushing yards per game but tightened up in key moments against Georgia and Vanderbilt. Linebacker Justin Jefferson and DB Bray Hubbard will be critical in containing Hardy's explosive runs.

2. Ty Simpson vs. Missouri's Secondary Simpson has thrown multiple touchdowns in five straight games and leads a balanced Alabama offense. Missouri's secondary ranks top-15 nationally in pass defense efficiency, but has yet to face a quarterback with Simpson's arm talent and mobility.

3. Red Zone Execution Both teams excel in scoring, but Alabama has converted 91% of red zone trips into points, while Missouri has relied heavily on Hardy's ground game inside the 20. Defensive stops in the red zone could swing momentum.

🏟️ Intangibles and Trends

• Missouri has won 15 straight home games, the second-longest active streak in the FBS.

• Alabama has won three straight games against ranked SEC opponents, including a road win at Georgia.

• The Tigers are 3–2 against the spread this season; Alabama is 4–1 ATS and 3–1 as a favorite of 3+ points.

What They're Saying

• "We've got to be physical and disciplined. Missouri's got weapons, but we've faced the best already," said Alabama Head Coach Kalen DeBoer.

• "This is our moment to prove we belong in the SEC's top tier," said Missouri RB Ahmad Hardy. "We respect Alabama, but we're not backing down."

🔮 Prediction

Missouri's home streak and offensive firepower make this a dangerous matchup, but Alabama's experience, depth, and quarterback play give them the edge.

Prediction: Alabama 34, Missouri 21