Maty Mauk is used to evading oncoming SEC pass rushers and coming through in the clutch as a leader on Mizzou’s football team.
His latest opponent, an ongoing war that has struck close to home, is out of his control, however.
Earlier this summer, the junior quarterback revealed that his father, Mike, was battling colorectal cancer after it was discovered following a routine colonoscopy.
Mauk has dedicated the 2015 season to him, a former high school football coach.
“It’s hard,” Maty said at SEC Media Days according to the Kansas City Star. “At times, you’ll find yourself sitting in your room and just thinking about it, but if there’s anybody that can beat it, it’s him. Winning is something he knows how to do at a high level.
“I’m not too worried, because I know that he’s a guy that’s not going to give up. He’s going to do whatever he has to do to beat this and he’s got the support crew around him. … It’s in our blood to fight.”
Mizzou’s coaching staff has been a tremendous support group for Mauk, who is trying to lead the Tigers to a third straight Eastern Division title. The devastating news in June crushed Mauk according to reports.
“We’re a very close family,” Mike told ESPN.com. “We have four children, three boys and a girl, with Maty being the youngest. Our main function growing up was that we were always together. I think that it was real tough on him initially just as it was the other three kids and as well as my wife.
“But then once we realized what we were battling against, you regroup and you hold strong to your faith and who you believe in, and you’re ready to face the situation.”
Mike has attended all but one of his son’s games at Mizzou.
“If I’m still alive and able to, I will be at his games,” Mike told ESPN.com.
