This weekend promises thrilling college football matchups for Tennessee bettors. Among the enthralling options is a betting opportunity showcasing the clash between the MTSU Blue Raiders (0-1) and the Missouri Tigers (1-0).

When: September 9, 2023 at 7:00 PM ET

Where: Memorial Stadium/Faurot Field in Columbia, Missouri

Watch: ESPN+

MTSU Blue Raiders Preview

The Blue Raiders had a tough opening week of football, which was a 56-7 defeat against the Alabama Crimson Tide. They did not really have a chance to win, as they were down 28-0 at halftime.

From that battle, they put up 211 total yards and 133 of those came from passing plays. For the Crimson Tide, they were able to land 431 total yards on the Blue Raiders defense, with 226 of those stemming from passes.

They had a solid 2022 season, where they came in fourth in the Conference USA and had an 8-5 record. They are off to a tough start and have another quality opponent coming up in the Tigers.

The same team allowed 28.85 points per game and gave up 27.69. They will put that margin to the test again as they face a motivated Tigers’ team.

Missouri Tigers Preview

The Tigers are aiming for a second win in a row after defeating the South Dakota Coyotes 35-10. They dominated the first half with returning quarterback Brady Cook, but their production slowed down in the second with redshirt freshman Sam Horn at quarterback.

They displayed 437 total yards, with 226 coming from passing yards. They were able to slow down the Coyotes to 194 total yards, with 148 yards from passes. This could have been a much larger spread if they kept their staters, at least until the fourth quarter.

The Tigers finished with 6-7 last year and were the second worst team in the SEC East. This is a team that kept it within a touchdown or less against the Auburn Tigers, Georgia Bulldogs (National Champions), and the Florida Gators. 

They only had two bad losses last year, which were a blowout against Kansas State (40-12) and against the Tennessee Volunteers (66-24). They have a great opportunity to challenge that record with a lot of returning players and improved efficiency.

In addition, they averaged 24.85 points per game and allowed 25.15 last year. This is a ratio that they will probably improve upon, assuming their defense is ready for the challenge.

Betting Odds

Experience the thrill of college football betting in Tennessee with  ZenSports’ Tennessee sportsbook, where the Tigers are strongly favored for victory.

MTSU Blue Raiders: +750

Spread: +20 (-110)

Missouri Tigers: -1400

Spread: -20 (-110)

Totals: Over 48 (-110), Under 48 (-110)

The Blue Raiders suffocated against one of the best teams in the country and will get an opportunity to breathe against the Tigers. However, the Tigers are aiming to show their true colors as they prepare for divisional play to prove they are a good team.

Photo Credit: © Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports