30 Facts About Missouri State Football

Missouri State Football: A Rich History

Missouri State Football has a storied past filled with memorable moments and notable achievements. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this beloved team.

1. Missouri State University, located in Springfield, Missouri, was founded in 1905. The football team, however, didn't kick off until 1909.

2. The team was originally known as the Southwest Missouri State Bears before the university changed its name in 2005.

3. Missouri State Football is part of the Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC), one of the toughest conferences in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS).

Memorable Seasons and Games

Every football team has standout seasons and games that fans remember for years. Missouri State is no exception.

4. In 1989, the Bears had an incredible season, finishing with a 10-3 record and making it to the quarterfinals of the NCAA Division I-AA playoffs.

5. The 1990 season was another highlight, with the team finishing 9-3 and making another playoff appearance.

6. One of the most memorable games in recent history was the 2019 victory over the University of Northern Iowa, a top-ranked team in the MVFC.

Coaches Who Made a Difference

Coaches play a crucial role in shaping a football team's success. Missouri State has had its share of influential leaders.

7. Jesse Branch, head coach from 1986 to 1994, led the team to two playoff appearances and is considered one of the best coaches in the program's history.

8. Terry Allen, who coached from 2006 to 2014, brought a wealth of experience and helped stabilize the program during his tenure.

9. Bobby Petrino, hired in 2020, is a well-known figure in college football and has brought renewed energy and excitement to the team.

Notable Players and Achievements

Missouri State has produced several standout players who have left their mark on the program and beyond.

10. DeAndre Smith, a quarterback in the late 1980s, set numerous school records and was a finalist for the Walter Payton Award in 1989.

11. Clay Harbor, a tight end who played from 2006 to 2009, went on to have a successful NFL career with teams like the Philadelphia Eagles and Jacksonville Jaguars.

12. Dylan Cole, a linebacker from 2013 to 2016, earned All-American honors and currently plays in the NFL for the Houston Texans.

The Fan Experience

Fans are the lifeblood of any football program, and Missouri State is no different. The atmosphere at games is electric, thanks to the dedicated supporters.

13. Plaster Stadium, the home of Missouri State Football, has a seating capacity of 17,500 and provides an intimate yet vibrant game-day experience.

14. The BearFest Village, a tailgating area near the stadium, is a popular spot for fans to gather before games and enjoy food, music, and camaraderie.

15. The "Bear Walk," where players walk through a sea of cheering fans on their way to the stadium, is a cherished tradition that pumps up both the team and the crowd.

Rivalries and Traditions

Rivalries and traditions add an extra layer of excitement to college football. Missouri State has its share of both.

16. The Bears have a fierce rivalry with the Southern Illinois Salukis, with games often being hard-fought and closely contested.

17. Another notable rivalry is with the Southeast Missouri State Redhawks, a matchup that always draws significant attention.

18. Homecoming games are a big deal at Missouri State, featuring parades, alumni events, and, of course, a highly anticipated football game.

Academic Excellence and Community Involvement

Missouri State Football players are not just athletes; they are also students and community members who strive for excellence on and off the field.

19. The team consistently achieves high academic standards, with many players earning spots on the MVFC All-Academic Team.

20. Community service is a significant part of the program, with players participating in various outreach activities, including visits to local schools and hospitals.

21. The "Bears in the Community" initiative encourages players to give back, fostering a strong connection between the team and the Springfield community.

Future Prospects and Goals

Looking ahead, Missouri State Football has ambitious goals and a bright future.

22. The team aims to consistently compete for MVFC championships and make regular appearances in the FCS playoffs.

23. Recruiting efforts have intensified under Coach Petrino, with a focus on bringing in top talent from across the country.

24. Facility upgrades, including a new locker room and training center, are in the works to provide players with the best possible resources.

Fun and Quirky Facts

Every football program has its unique quirks and fun tidbits. Here are some you might not know about Missouri State Football.

25. The team's mascot, Boomer the Bear, is a fan favorite and can often be seen hyping up the crowd during games.

26. The Bears have a tradition of wearing special "throwback" uniforms for select games, honoring the team's history and past achievements.

27. Missouri State Football has a strong social media presence, with players and coaches actively engaging with fans on platforms like Twitter and Instagram.

28. The team has a unique pre-game ritual where players touch a bronze bear statue for good luck as they enter the field.

29. Missouri State's fight song, "The Scotsman," is a rousing tune that gets fans and players alike fired up for the game.

30. The Bears have a dedicated group of superfans known as the "Bear Brigade," who travel to away games and provide unwavering support for the team.

Missouri State Football: A Legacy of Passion

Missouri State Football has a rich history filled with memorable moments and dedicated players. From its early beginnings to its current status, the team has shown resilience and growth. Fans have witnessed incredible games, celebrated victories, and supported the team through challenges. The Bears have produced talented athletes who have gone on to achieve great things both on and off the field. The community's support has been unwavering, making each game a special event. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the sport, Missouri State Football offers a unique experience that brings people together. The team's commitment to excellence and passion for the game ensures that the legacy of Missouri State Football will continue to thrive for years to come.