Mizzou Prepares for Music City Bowl Showdown Against Iowa

Nashville, Tenn. — Missouri football is on the brink of history as it aims for back-to-back 10-win seasons for the third time in program history and the first under head coach Eli Drinkwitz. The Tigers, who finished the regular season at 9-3, are set to face the Iowa Hawkeyes in the TransPerfect Music City Bowl. However, Drinkwitz views this matchup as more of a stand-alone opportunity rather than a season-defining event. 

Missouri’s last consecutive 10-win seasons came under former head coach Gary Pinkel, with 12-2 and 11-3 records in 2013 and 2014, respectively. A victory over Iowa would mark another milestone for Drinkwitz and his team. However, standing in their way is a formidable opponent led by one of the most respected coaches in college football, Kirk Ferentz. 

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"This is really a stand-alone game," Drinkwitz said during Sunday’s joint news conference in Nashville. "It’s different from the regular season because of the free agency period that occurs. For us, it’s an opportunity to play one last game together. If we win, it sets a positive tone for next year. If not, we move forward and prepare for the next season." 

"I have tremendous respect for Kirk Ferentz and his 26-year tenure at Iowa," Drinkwitz stated. "He’s the gold standard in building and sustaining success in college football. Facing his team is an honor, and our players know we’ll need to execute a clean game to compete."  

Keys to Victory for Mizzou

Missouri’s success in the Music City Bowl will hinge on discipline and execution. Drinkwitz emphasized avoiding turnovers, minimizing penalties, and staying sharp with tackling. Iowa, renowned for its defensive prowess, poses a significant challenge. Pro Football Focus ranks the Hawkeyes’ defense as the fifth-best in the nation, a unit that thrives on making opponents fight for every yard. 

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"Their defense is a challenging scheme. They’re wildly successful because of their ability to complement offense, defense, and special teams," Drinkwitz said. "You can’t beat just one aspect of their team—you have to outplay the entire unit to win." 

Missouri’s defense has also proven tough, making this matchup a battle of grit and strategy. On the offensive side, the Tigers showcased explosive playmaking abilities late in the season, offering a potential edge against Iowa’s disciplined defense. 

Challenges for Both Teams

Both Missouri and Iowa face uncertainties heading into the game. Key players from both rosters are either injured or opting out to prepare for the NFL Draft, leaving room for surprises in how the game unfolds. 

Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz noted Missouri’s strengths, highlighting their discipline and attention to detail. "Missouri checks all the boxes—penalties, ball security, takeaways, and time of possession. They’re a well-coached team that pays attention to what matters," Ferentz said. 

While the Hawkeyes’ defense remains their strongest weapon, Missouri’s balanced attack could tip the scales. Conversely, Missouri’s defense must stay sharp to contain Iowa’s methodical approach. 

 A Game of Momentum

For Missouri, the Music City Bowl offers a chance to cap off a strong season and build momentum heading into 2025. For Iowa, it’s an opportunity to assert their dominance on a national stage. Both teams are prepared for a fierce battle, making this matchup a must-watch for college football fans. 

Whether Missouri achieves its historic milestone or Iowa proves its defensive mettle, the Music City Bowl promises an exciting end to the season for both teams.