Mizzou's Mid-Season Stock Check: Stars Shine, Some Units Dip

Mizzou's football team is at its bye week after seven games in the 2026 season, offering a moment to evaluate player and positional group performance. Quarterback Austin Simmons has emerged as a standout, transforming the offense with his strong arm and ability to connect on long passes, earning first-round NFL draft consideration.

Running back Jamal Roberts is another key performer, leading the FBS with 867 rushing yards and on pace for a 1,400-yard season. Defensive players Daeden Hopkins and Nicholas Rodriguez have also exceeded expectations, becoming significant contributors on the defensive line and at linebacker, respectively, with both earning mid-season All-American honors.

Conversely, some areas have seen a decline in performance. The offensive line has struggled with run-blocking consistency, despite excelling in pass protection. The tight end room has been largely absent from the passing game, and the kicking operation has been particularly concerning, posting the lowest field goal percentage in the SEC and marking an embarrassing special teams performance.