Here are some quick thoughts on Missouri’s 9-6 win against Connecticut on Saturday:

What it means: Missouri’s offense is in serious trouble. With starting RB Russell Hansbrough injured for this early-day affair, the Tigers lagged on offense through all four quarters. Starting QB Maty Mauk couldn’t connect deep with his receivers, the offensive line couldn’t create holes and the run game was virtually non-existent. Even freshman QB Drew Lock, who went a respectable 6-for-9, wasn’t able to put any points on the board.

What I liked: Terry Beckner’s disruptive presence. Despite three of his teammates (including receivers DeSean Blair and Keyon Dilosa) being injured in a car accident on Friday involving a Beckner-driven vehicle, the freshman defensive tackle suited up on Saturday and eased Missouri fans’ fears. He had one tackle for loss, but was able to get through the Huskies offensive line throughout the game.

What I didn’t like: The running game. Between Ish Witter, Morgan Steward and Chase Abbington, Missouri doesn’t appear to even have a capable SEC backup running back, nonetheless someone who could fill in for Hansbrough on Saturday.

Who’s the man: Linebacker Kentrell Brothers. It’s getting repetitive putting Missouri’s tackle machine in this slot, but the Tigers don’t win this game without Brothers. He helped block a PAT on Connecticut’s only touchdown, while once again leading the team in tackles.

Key play: Clarence Green’s safety. The Missouri linebacker got the scoring started with a first-quarter safety, and there’s no telling how this game could have evolved if the Tigers didn’t have that early two points.

What’s next: The Tigers travel to Kentucky in what increasingly seems like a bad matchup for Missouri. Kentucky is confident coming off a win at South Carolina, and Missouri’s offense hasn’t been this bad in quite some time. Gary Pinkel and his coaching staff will hope Hansbrough and the rest of the Tigers’ offensive weapons get healthy. Otherwise, expect another ugly offensive performance.