The University of Missouri is positioning itself for a strong showing this college football season under head coach Eli Drinkwitz, who secured a six-year contract worth $64.5 million nearly a year ago to remain with the Tigers. With several coaching vacancies anticipated across the Southeastern Conference following the 2025 season, Missouri moved decisively to retain Drinkwitz, who has since guided the team to a 5-1 record and a No. 13 national ranking entering Week 7.
Missouri’s recent performance, highlighted by a decisive victory over Florida in Week 6, reflects the team’s balanced approach on both sides of the ball. The offense continues to operate efficiently despite the departure of 2025 MVP Ahmad Hardy, with former Ole Miss quarterback Austin Simmons and breakout star running back Jamal Roberts leading the charge. Meanwhile, Missouri’s defense has been a formidable presence, limiting opponents to an average of 4.5 yards per play.
Looking ahead, Missouri faces a challenging road game against Ole Miss in Oxford, a matchup that experts suggest could tilt in the Tigers' favor, especially on a neutral field. Renowned power rating systems such as SP+ and Sagarin both list Missouri as a slight favorite, underscoring the team’s preparedness and cohesion. Analysts predict Missouri could cover the +5.5 spread in this contest, signaling potential for an upset.
In other notable Week 7 matchups, Notre Dame is favored by 10.5 points over BYU in a game taking place in Provo. BYU will contend without versatile running back LJ Martin due to injury, placing significant pressure on sophomore quarterback Bear Bachmeier to challenge Notre Dame’s defense with a multifaceted approach. Notre Dame’s offense, led by CJ Carr, remains undefeated and is expected to impose its will on BYU’s defense.
Meanwhile, Indiana enters its home game against Ohio State with a three-point underdog status despite riding a 22-game winning streak as defending national champions. Indiana’s offense, quarterbacked by Josh Hoover, has displayed precision and consistency, completing over 68 percent of passes with 17 touchdowns and no interceptions. The Hoosiers’ defense also aims to exploit Ohio State’s offensive line vulnerabilities.
Following a 2-1 record last week, with wins over Georgia and Utah but a loss to Pitt, the publication’s season prediction stands at 10-11 overall as teams navigate a competitive and unpredictable college football landscape.