They once were an offensive Maserati, cruising across the field with flair and efficiency.

Now the Missouri Tigers are an offensive clunker, seemingly more scrap metal than sports car.

Who are these guys?

Look, I went to Mizzou. I loved my time in Columbia from 2005 to 2009. As a student and as a young sports writer, I watched the Tigers evolve from a Big 12 North also-ran that lost to New Mexico at home in Brad Smith’s final season into a potent bunch that came within one half in 2007 of playing for a national title. (I’m convinced Missouri would have won it all then if Sam Bradford slipped on a banana peel or something.)

The Tigers were an offensive wonder in those black-and-golden days. In 2007, Chase Daniel threw for 4,306 yards with 33 touchdowns. Tony Temple ran for 1,039 yards with 13 all-purpose scores. Jeremy Maclin had 1,055 yards receiving and found the end zone 13 times. Martin Rucker and Chase Coffman were tanks at tight end.

More standout offensive years followed. Danario Alexander was a lightning bolt at wide receiver. Henry Josey was a jolt of electricity at running back. Dorial Green-Beckham tempted the imagination with his natural skill. Marcus Murphy and Russell Hansbrough were a wicked one-two punch in the backfield. Even Bud Sasser had his moments on the outside.

Now I see a void. I see something unrecognizable.

I understand things change. College football can be fickle in that way. Missouri’s rise to national prominence, first in the Big 12 and then in the SEC, always seemed no different than a wave near a coastline. It was fun to see something that began as nothing gain strength and momentum. Still, you had a feeling it all would crash onto a rocky surface someday.

That time came last year.

The offensive numbers spoke for themselves, and they shouted, “AWFUL!” The Tigers brought up the rear in the SEC in total offense, passing offense, rushing offense and scoring offense. They totaled a ridiculous five rushing touchdowns and only 10 passing scores.

Yuck.

Maty Mauk was a mess off the field, and Drew Lock showed how far he has to go to step in Daniel’s shadow. Hansbrough was hurt, and Ish Witter was ineffective. The pass-catching options were as frustrating as a shiny new Ford Mustang without a steering wheel. Witter led Missouri with just 518 yards rushing, and Lock (below) closed with a less-than-impressive 1,332 yards passing with four touchdowns and eight interceptions.

Oct 10, 2015; Columbia, MO, USA; Missouri Tigers quarterback Drew Lock (3) is sacked by Florida Gators defensive lineman Cece Jefferson (96) during the second half at Faurot Field. Florida won 21-3. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

It was jarring for anyone spoiled by those past 11- and 12-win seasons to see such an offensive slog. The coming fall doesn’t guarantee a revival.

Sure, there’s promise in Josh Heupel’s arrival as offensive coordinator. But no one knows how a questionable line and unproven running backs and wide receivers will adapt to the change.

Sure, there’s potential in Lock’s likely second season starting behind center. But no one knows if those seven interceptions in his final seven games last year were a sign of immaturity now in the rear-view mirror or a hint of more issues to come.

Where’s the firepower?

Where are the difference-makers?

Where are the stars?

Perhaps surprises will arrive. Perhaps Lock will meet his potential. Perhaps a pass-catching option – Chris Black? – will assert himself in a major way. Perhaps Witter or someone else will provide Missouri’s ground game with a needed heartbeat.

Until then, I’ll watch, wait and wonder. And I’ll recall a time when the Tigers’ offense enjoyed life with cruise control.