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Ending at 7-6 instead of 6-7 may not dramatically change the record books, but finishing the year with momentum and a winning record is crucial for Tom Herman and the Texas Longhorns.
Texas will face the Missouri Tigers (6-6) on Wednesday night at 8 pm CST at NRG Stadium. The game will be on ESPN.
Though Vegas is predicting a close contest, Missouri is the favorite by anywhere from 2.5 to three points, depending on where you are betting.
This is likely due to the fact that the ‘Horns will be missing several key contributors in what may have been an even match-up even if Texas was at full strength. Texas stars Connor Williams, Holton Hill, and DeShon Elliott will not suit up due to preparing for the NFL draft, and the ‘Horns also suspended three players, including second-leading wide-receiver Lil’Jordan Humphrey. Furthermore, star linebacker Malik Jefferson will likely miss the game with a toe injury, and defensive-lineman Chris Nelson will be out with an elbow injury.
Yikes.
Despite the injuries, Todd Orlando will need to have his defense ready to contain yet another stellar QB in Drew Locke, as the Missouri gunslinger could be a quality NFL draft pick this year. On offense, the line will look to hold up enough for Shane Buechele to be effective.
It won’t be easy, but bowl games shouldn’t be.
You can read up more on the game more by clicking the BON articles linked below.
- Texas looks to end Tom Herman’s first season with a win in the Texas Bowl
- BON roundtable predicts that Missouri QB Drew Lock will be a challenge for Texas’ depleted defense.
- Shane Buechele will likely get the start in the Texas Bowl.
- Texas will be extremely short-handed in the bowl after injuries and suspensions.
How to watch, listen, and stream
Where: NRG Stadium (Houston, Texas)
Kickoff time: 8 pm CT
TV: ESPN
Radio: 104.9 The Horn, 99.3 FM
Online Streaming: WatchESPN
Live Stats: Stat broadcast live
Odds: Missouri (-2.5)
Tomorrow. Business. #ThisIsTexas #HookEm pic.twitter.com/frjOA2HiKW
— Texas Football (@TexasFootball) December 26, 2017