Eli Drinkwitz relied on a huge performance from Cody Schrader along with some stout defense to get past Tennessee in dominant fashion on Saturday night.

The Tigers topped the Vols 36-7 behind Schrader’s 205 rushing yards and 116 receiving yards. After the game, Drinkwitz didn’t shy away from promoting Schrader for Heisman candidacy.

When asked if Schrader should be considered for Heisman, Drinkwitz credited Schrader’s ability to step up when it matters most.

“I think so,” Drinkwitz said in his postgame press conference. “The guy shows up in the biggest games on the biggest stages.”

Schrader started as a walk on at Missouri, but quickly became one of the biggest offensive pieces for the Tigers. Saturday was another example of what he’s capable of.

“Superman,” Drinkwitz said of Schrader. “I can’t call him Smurf now. He’s risen to a new level.”

Drinkwitz also used Schrader’s incredible story as a recruiting pitch for players looking for a chance.

“This is an open invitation to anyone that believes in themselves and believes that they can come in here and compete,” he said. “We’re going to have an opportunity for you.”

It’s been an outstanding season for Missouri, but it hasn’t come without setbacks and obstacles. Drinkwitz credited his team’s resiliency throughout the year.

“Can’t kill us. We’ve already been killed,” Drinkwitz said. “We’re gonna fight our way out and fight for each other.”

With the win Saturday, Missouri picked up its 4th win over a Tennessee team. The Tigers have now beat all 4 FBS teams in the state of Tennessee — MTSU, Memphis, Vanderbilt and now the Vols.

“We’re the Tennessee state champs,” Drinkwitz said.