Here’s what Missouri coach Gary Pinkel had to say after the Tigers won a close 9-6 game against the Connecticut Huskies on Saturday.

On UConn’s fake field goal that was intercepted to end the game: Well, we anticipated it. We went in the middle of the rush so those guys could man up outside. Our guys made a play. Our defense has been playing so good all day, it’s great that they got that stop there.

On sticking with QB Maty Mauk, especially on fourth downs: He’s always responded.

On offensive problems: We’ve got a lot of problems on offense. We’re not synchronized. We’re breaking down here and there. There’s no consistency.

On preparedness: It’s practicing consistently, especially when you’re young, you just keep doing it over and over and over. We’ll eventually get it.

On Missouri’s defense: We’re very experienced on defense. We’re very healthy. Our backup defensive line is really healthy. They’re really young, but they’re really producing at a high level. Just a lot of good things, and it’s exciting that we’re playing that good on defense.