Things looked bleak for Missouri at the half but the Tigers came out and outscored Vanderbilt 20-7 in the second half to come out on top 33-28 over the Commodores in Columbia. The win propels the Tigers to the six-win mark, making Barry Odom’s program bowl eligible for the second consecutive season.

The win was even more impressive when you factor in that Missouri turned the ball over twice in the game, including late in the fourth quarter, and Vanderbilt did not turn the ball over at all in the contest. Following a strong second half close to the game, the Tigers’ defense had to come up with a stop in the closing moments of the game to get the win.

Something that obviously happened and pleased Barry Odom immediately after the game’s conclusion.

“I think, No. 1, we know going into every week if we prepare the right way, it will always come down to the fourth quarter,” Odom said following Missouri’s 33-28 win. “Their resolve and their toughness and finding ways to win tough games, that’s a good step for us.”

The Tigers were without several players on the day, many of which were injured. The Missouri coach credited the preparation of his players heading into this game.

“Well, it’s important, guys never know when their number is going to be called. You have to prepare the right way,” Odom said. “On that 99-yard drive by the offense, a lot of different guys stepped up. You never know which play is going to determine the outcome of a game, that’s why we take the approach of one play at a time. It’s not always pretty but you have to get battling and go fight.”

Finally, Odom offered up these comments on the consistent play of his team over the previous few weeks.

“It will carry us through the rest of November,” he said. “Growing our confidence but also knowing that we left a lot out there today, credit to Vandy for making some plays but excited about getting to win No. 6. Another great thing for this team and now it’s on to the next one in November.”

Missouri, 6-4 on the season following the win, travels to Tennessee next weekend to face the Volunteers.