Tide Surges Past Missouri: Simpson's Late Heroics Lift Alabama to 27–24 Road Win

October 13, 2025 - COLUMBIA, MISSOURRI - In a game that tested grit, depth, and poise, the Alabama Crimson Tide marched into Columbia and emerged with a hard-fought 27–24 win over the previously undefeated Missouri Tigers. The victory marks Alabama's third straight win over a ranked SEC opponent and extends its winning streak to five games, solidifying its place among the nation's elite.

Quarterback Ty Simpson once again proved why he's the heartbeat of Alabama's offense, throwing for 200 yards and three touchdowns-including a clutch fourth-down strike to Daniel Hill with just over three minutes remaining. The win snapped Missouri's 15-game home winning streak and underscored Alabama's resilience in hostile territory.

First Half: Trading Blows

Missouri struck first, stunning Alabama with a six-play, 78-yard drive capped by a 26-yard touchdown pass from Beau Pribula to tight end Brett Norfleet. But Simpson responded with precision, leading a methodical drive that ended with a touchdown pass to Isaiah Horton. After a Missouri three-and-out, Simpson zipped another scoring pass-this time to Horton on third-and-long-to give Alabama a 14–7 lead.

Both teams added field goals before halftime, sending Alabama into the locker room with a narrow 17–10 advantage.

Second Half: Momentum Shifts

Missouri capitalized on Simpson's lone miscue-a fumble on the first play of the third quarter. Pribula scrambled into the end zone three plays later to tie the game at 17–17. Alabama responded with a nine-minute drive that chewed up most of the third quarter, ending in a 22-yard field goal by Conor Talty.

The Tide defense then took over, forcing a turnover on downs and an interception on Missouri's next two possessions. That set the stage for Simpson's defining moment.

Fourth Quarter: Simpson Delivers

Facing fourth-and-8 deep in Missouri territory, Simpson kept the drive alive with a laser over the middle. Then, on fourth-and-goal, he found Daniel Hill in the flat for the go-ahead touchdown. Missouri answered with a quick score of its own, but Alabama recovered the onside kick and forced a final turnover-an interception by freshman Dijon Lee Jr.-to seal the win.

"Each side of the ball, we covered for each other," said head coach Kalen DeBoer. "We did the job. Got the job done."

Simpson echoed the sentiment: "Nobody flinched. We're going to keep punching."

Tactical Takeaways

• Containment of Hardy: Alabama's front seven held the nation's leading rusher to just 52 yards, forcing Missouri to rely on Pribula's arm.

• Clock Control: The Tide's nine-minute third-quarter drive kept Missouri's offense off the field and shifted momentum.

• Fourth-Down Execution: Simpson converted two critical fourth downs on the final scoring drive, showcasing poise under pressure.

Outreach Implications for Alabama Communities

For civic educators, youth coaches, and outreach coordinators, this game offers teachable moments:

• Resilience Under Pressure: Simpson's performance is a model for leadership and composure.

• Team Accountability: DeBoer's "each side covered for each other" mantra reinforces community values of mutual support.

• Strategic Adaptation: Alabama's ability to adjust mid-game mirrors the importance of flexibility in civic planning and landowner management.

Consider adapting this recap into printable materials for youth sports programs, leadership workshops, or community newsletters.

What's Next

Alabama (5–1, 3–0 SEC) returns home to face Tennessee on October 18 in a primetime matchup. With playoff odds rising and SEC title hopes alive, the Tide's momentum is building.

Missouri (5–1, 1–1 SEC) will look to regroup after its first loss of the season, but the Tigers proved they belong in the national conversation.