The Mizzou backfield hasn’t missed a step since starter Damarea Crockett went down with a shoulder injury earlier this year.

That’s thanks in large part to the play of Ish Witter and Larry Rountree III, both of whom have been outstanding in Crockett’s absence.

However, according to STLToday.com, coach Barry Odom expects the Mizzou backfield to be even more dangerous in the Texas Bowl on Dec. 27, as Crockett will likely be healthy enough to play:

“He’s done a great job of approaching the rehab and he’s determined to be back and help us out,” Odom said.

Of course, if Crockett isn’t 100-percent healthy, there’s no sense in risking further injury heading into the offseason, but if he can go, it’ll be a big boost for the Mizzou offense.

Crockett has been out since the Tigers started turning their season around, but in six games, he has 481 rushing yards and two touchdowns.

The Texas Bowl against the Texas Longhorns will kick off at 8 p.m. Central time on ESPN on Dec. 27.