Rece Davis makes his pick for Week 2 clash between Mizzou, Kansas
By Jyesha Nance
Published:
Week 2 of the 2025 college football season boasts a slate of compelling matchups. Chief among them? The clash between Mizzou and Kansas. While neither team currently holds a ranking, this game carries a significant weight, marking another chapter in a long and storied rivalry.
Ahead of the game, ESPN’s Rece Davis and Pete Thamel both voiced their predictions on the College GameDay Podcast, siding with the Tigers to emerge victorious.
Thamel highlighted Missouri’s defensive strength, suggesting it could be the deciding factor. He also playfully speculated about the potential for both teams’ quarterbacks to rack up over 100 rushing yards, hinting at the dynamic and potentially high-scoring nature of the contest.
“I am going to take the Tigers. Could we have 2 quarterbacks run for more than 100 yards? I think it’s going to be that kind of game. From a pure personal perspective, Missouri’s defensive personnel is better than Kansas,” said Thamel. “And that’s what ends up being the difference here.”
Davis, while acknowledging the challenges the Jayhawks present, ultimately believes Missouri’s overall strength will be too much for Kansas to overcome.
“I think Kansas will give them fits. I think Kansas will give Missouri’s defense problems, They’re very creative on offense,” Davis said. [Quarterback Jalon] Daniels is healthy and very good, but I think Missouri has too much for them. I think Missouri wins the game.”
The Tigers hold a commanding 57-54-9 record against the Jayhawks. Their most recent encounter was on Nov. 26, 2011, where the Tigers escaped with a 24-10 victory.
The Border War, which hasn’t been played since Mizzou left the Big 12 for the SEC, is known for its intensity and unpredictability, and this year’s game promises to be no different. A hard-fought battle is expected with both teams eager to assert dominance and write another exciting page in their rivalry’s history.
The Tigers and Jayhawks will kick off on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. on ESPN2.
RELATED: For college football fans looking for a streaming option in Week 2, click the link for a FuboTV trial offer.
