Missouri coach Gary Pinkel reminded Toledo fans why he’s the school’s all-time winningest coach Saturday.

Maty Mauk threw five touchdowns and ran for one more as the Tigers topped the Rockets, 49-24. Here are a few thoughts on the win.

What It Means: Many people, including us, talked about this as a dangerous road game. Instead, Toledo never really threatened. Missouri left plays on the field and still won by 25 points. The team made clear improvements from the season opener. To this point, Missouri’s schedule is setting up well. The Tigers (2-0) have two more manageable tests against non-conference teams and should continue to get closer to their potential.

What I Liked: The offensive line did a terrific job pass-blocking. Maty Mauk could’ve smoked some brisket on some plays before attempting a pass. Speaking of Mauk, the quarterback settled down after the first quarter and accounted for six touchdowns, continuing his excellent yards per attempt figures by connecting on several downfield throws. The defensive line timed Toledo’s snap cadence perfectly, getting tremendous pressure. Against an offense that relies on timing and getting rid of the ball fast, Markus Golden and Shane Ray combined for three sacks. Marcus Murphy got more involved as a pass-catcher.

What I Didn’t Like: Missouri allowed Kareem Hunt to rush for 148 yards on 15 carries. The Tigers now have allowed 545, 171, 119 and 154 rushing yards in the last four games, including four different 100-yard rushers. Mauk didn’t see the field all that well, didn’t put appropriate touch on the ball at times and attempted to force a few throws, leading to two interceptions. Overall, Mauk played a good game, but he left some plays on the field. SEC opponents will make him pay for doing that.

Who’s The Man: It’s tempting to give this to Ray or Golden, but that wouldn’t be fair to Bud Sasser. In addition to catching five passes for 121 yards and one touchdown, he made the play of the game.

Key Play: Up just 14-7 at the end of the first quarter, Mauk threw a bad interception deep in his own territory at the end of the first quarter. Jordan Haden sprinted for the right corner of Toledo’s end zone, but receiver Bud Sasser stripped him from behind and fellow receiver Jimmie Hunt pounced on the ball at the 9-yard line.

Missouri didn’t score, but the play kept the Rockets from keeping pace. Just as important, Mauk took better care of the ball, at least for a while, and got more accurate. Better execution helped the Tigers jolt to a 35-7 lead.

What’s Next: Missouri isn’t guaranteed a 4-0 start, but the Tigers will enter next week’s home game against UCF as clear favorites. The Knights nearly beat Penn State in Ireland to open the season before enjoying an off week after the plane ride back to Orlando, Fla.