The LSU Tigers and the Missouri Tigers are two well-known teams in NCAA college football, each with its own rich history and passionate fan base. These two schools, representing Louisiana State University and the University of Missouri, have faced off on the gridiron on a number of occasions, with each matchup having its own unique set of circumstances, storylines, and outcomes. While LSU has historically been one of the top football programs in the nation, Missouri has also made its mark, particularly in the SEC since joining the conference in 2012.
In this essay, we will explore the history of the LSU Tigers and Missouri Tigers football programs, the circumstances surrounding their matchups, and the significance of their games in the context of the SEC and college football as a whole. We will also examine how the LSU Tigers were recently “blocked” by the Missouri Tigers, delving into the details of a particular game where Missouri managed to secure a surprising victory or a significant challenge for LSU.
The LSU Tigers Football Program
LSU’s football team, the Tigers, is widely regarded as one of the premier programs in college football. The program has a storied history that dates back to its founding in 1893. LSU has consistently been one of the top teams in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and has produced a number of legendary coaches and players over the years. With multiple national championships and conference titles to its name, LSU has built a reputation for strong defense, a powerful running game, and electrifying playmaking.
The Tigers’ football success has been built upon a strong foundation of talented players, including future NFL stars. Legendary coaches such as Charles McClendon, Nick Saban, and Les Miles have guided the team to great heights. LSU’s home field, Tiger Stadium, is known for its deafening atmosphere and has earned the nickname “Death Valley,” reflecting the difficulty opponents face when playing there.
LSU’s football program has produced some of the most iconic college football moments. The team’s national championships in 2003, 2007, and 2019 are highlights of the program’s storied history. Notable players such as Joe Burrow, Leonard Fournette, and Patrick Peterson have cemented their places as some of the best to ever wear the purple and gold jersey.
However, LSU’s success has not always been guaranteed, and they have faced challenges from a variety of opponents throughout the years. One such challenge came from the Missouri Tigers, a program that, while not always on the same level as LSU, has been a thorn in their side on several occasions.
The Missouri Tigers Football Program
The Missouri Tigers football team, representing the University of Missouri, has a rich history as well. Founded in 1890, Missouri has been a part of various conferences before joining the SEC in 2012. Missouri had an established reputation in the Big 12 Conference, where the team won several division titles, but joining the SEC represented a new challenge for the Tigers, as they had to compete against the elite football programs in the country.
Missouri has had its fair share of success in college football, especially in the modern era. The Tigers won the SEC East Division in 2013 and 2014, marking their early success in the conference. Their victory over highly-ranked opponents and their solid performance in bowl games have earned them recognition as a respected program in the SEC.
Although Missouri has not consistently been one of the top-tier programs in the SEC, they have had their moments of greatness. The team has been known for its explosive offense, strong quarterback play, and efficient special teams. Additionally, the program has been able to develop players who have gone on to the NFL, further elevating the stature of the team.
In terms of its rivalry with LSU, Missouri’s victories or strong performances against the Tigers have often been a source of pride for the program. Missouri has faced LSU multiple times since joining the SEC, and while LSU has traditionally been the stronger team, Missouri has occasionally had the upper hand in these contests.
LSU vs. Missouri: Key Matchups and Rivalry Dynamics
LSU and Missouri have faced off several times over the years, and their matchups are always anticipated, especially since Missouri joined the SEC in 2012. These games have been critical not only for the two teams but also for the larger picture of SEC football.
1. 2014 – A High-Scoring Affair
One of the early and memorable matchups between LSU and Missouri took place in 2014 when both teams were members of the SEC East and West divisions, respectively. The game was held at Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge, and the Missouri Tigers came into the game with a lot of confidence, having already clinched a successful season. Despite LSU being the higher-ranked team, Missouri managed to keep the game close, with Missouri’s offense led by quarterback Maty Mauk keeping the LSU defense on its toes.
LSU eventually managed to hold off Missouri, but it was a hard-fought battle that showed the resilience of the Missouri Tigers. LSU won the game 42-7, but the contest helped set the tone for future meetings, establishing that Missouri could be a serious challenger to the Tigers’ supremacy in the SEC.
2. 2016 – Missouri’s Upset Victory
One of the most significant and unexpected outcomes between LSU and Missouri came in 2016 when the Missouri Tigers pulled off an upset victory against LSU. The game took place at Faurot Field in Columbia, Missouri, and it was one that no one expected to go in Missouri’s favor.
LSU entered the game with a talented roster, and despite the Tigers’ struggles earlier in the season, many expected them to dominate. However, Missouri’s offense, led by quarterback Drew Lock, exploded in the game, catching the LSU defense off guard. Missouri capitalized on LSU’s mistakes and forced turnovers at critical moments.
LSU’s offense, which had been explosive at times, failed to put up points when it mattered. Missouri’s defense played an opportunistic game, limiting LSU’s ability to establish its run game and neutralizing the passing attack. The Tigers from Columbia won the game 34-17, sending shockwaves through the SEC and reminding LSU and the rest of the conference that Missouri was not a team to be underestimated.
This victory was monumental for Missouri and marked one of the most significant wins in the program’s history. For LSU, it was a disappointing loss, especially since they had high expectations that season. This game served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of college football, where any team, even one seen as an underdog, could have its day.
3. 2020 – A Close Call
The 2020 matchup between LSU and Missouri, held in Columbia, was another crucial game for both teams. This time, LSU was struggling with a new quarterback, Myles Brennan, and was coming off a disappointing loss to Mississippi State. On the other hand, Missouri was in the midst of a rebuilding year under head coach Eli Drinkwitz and was hoping to spring an upset over LSU.
Missouri managed to keep the game competitive, and despite LSU’s offensive efforts, Missouri’s defense proved to be a formidable opponent. In the end, LSU squeaked out a narrow victory, winning 45-41, but the game was a reminder of how tough Missouri could be.
The “Blocked” Game: Missouri’s Defining Victory
The term “blocked” in this context can be seen as an acknowledgment of how Missouri has occasionally thrown off LSU’s momentum, halted their winning streaks, or delivered an unexpected defeat. One particular game stands out as a metaphorical “block”—a moment in which Missouri halted LSU’s dominance and threw a wrench into their season.
4. 2022 – Missouri Shocks LSU
In 2022, LSU entered the game against Missouri ranked, hoping to build momentum for the season. Missouri, despite its underdog status, played a fierce game, and the two teams traded leads throughout the contest. LSU found itself on the ropes in a way that hadn’t been anticipated.
Missouri’s defense made crucial stops, especially in the fourth quarter. With time running out, LSU was in position to win, but Missouri’s defense came up with key turnovers, disrupting LSU’s offensive rhythm. A late field goal attempt by LSU was blocked by Missouri’s special teams, sealing the victory for the Tigers from Columbia.
This game felt like a “block” in more ways than one. It was a rare example of a team from Missouri frustrating LSU to the point where they couldn’t finish a close game. Missouri’s defense and special teams were the unsung heroes of the day, and the win was one that earned Missouri significant respect across the SEC.
