Missouri vs. Kansas Prediction and Game Preview

Steven Lassan:  This game will tell us a lot about both teams. Missouri’s rebuilt defense should be tested by the ground game of Kansas. And when the Tigers have the ball, quarterback Austin Simmons’ progression is the top storyline against a Jayhawks’ defense that struggled in 2025. With running backs Dylan Edwards and Yasin Willis, along with the mobility of quarterback Isaiah Marshall, Kansas needs to get its ground attack on track and keep Simmons and Missouri’s weapons on the sidelines. Add in the rivalry angle to two teams entering the season with plenty of uncertainty and change, and Friday night’s matchup is a fascinating one in Lawrence. I think Simmons and the Missouri skill talent with running back Jamal Roberts and receiver Donovan Olugbode will be too much.
Prediction: Missouri 34, Kansas 24

Kyle Wood: It’s a good thing this rivalry has returned — hate-filled hype videos and all. This game will be our first real look at the Tigers and Jayhawks’ offense after they breezed through their respective FCS openers. Missouri All-America running back Ahmad Hardy is still out, but Jamal Roberts actually outgained him on fewer carries when these teams met a season ago. Between Roberts, tight end Brett Norfleet and transfer quarterback Austin Simmons, the Tigers’ offense should score early and often. The question for KU is whether it will be able to run the ball more effectively than it did last time out against Mizzou. For the first time in a long time, it’s not Jalon Daniels under center. Quarterback Isaiah Marshall looked good in his debut, though. He’ll be able to move the ball well enough against a defense that returns zero starters to keep the Jayhawks in the game at home, but the Tigers’ talent will prevail.
Prediction: Missouri 27, Kansas 23