Missouri is in the middle of a disappointing season in coach Barry Odom’s second season at the helm. While some fans have voiced frustration during the 2-5 start, Athletics Director Jim Sterk has another view on the direction of the program.

“There’s things that could happen, but I expect (Odom) to be back,” Sterk said, according to a report from the Columbia Missourian.

Missouri snapped a four-game losing streak last week with a 68-21 victory over Idaho. The Tigers play at Connecticut this week, and then close with Florida, Tennessee, Vanderbilt and Arkansas. Sterk said he’s optimistic for the stretch run of the season, and in recent weeks, the team has shown positive signs, including big plays on offense against Georgia, and a reduced turnover margin.

“I think we’ve played a heck of a lot better the last three games,” Sterk said. “They’re really looking to flip the season, to go 5-1 (in the second half) instead of 1-5. … Overall, the mentality of the team is good and they’re up to the challenge of this second half of the season.”

Sagging ticket sales have been an issue, and Missouri reportedly only had 47,648 at the game on Saturday. Sterk, though, said he sees changes paying off down the road.

“Barry has made changes in that locker room to make it a more positive situation,” Sterk said. “I think that people don’t see that part of it and that culture of the team developing.”