35 Facts About Missouri Tigers Football

The Birth of Missouri Tigers Football

Missouri Tigers football has a rich history filled with exciting moments, legendary players, and unforgettable games. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this storied program.

1. The Missouri Tigers football team was established in 1890, making it one of the oldest college football programs in the United States.

2. The team's first game was played on Thanksgiving Day in 1890 against Washington University in St. Louis, which they won 22-0.

3. The nickname "Tigers" was inspired by a group of local militia called the "Fighting Tigers of Columbia" who defended the town during the Civil War.

Memorable Seasons and Championships

Missouri Tigers have had several standout seasons and championship runs that have cemented their place in college football history.

4. In 1960, the Tigers finished the season ranked No. 5 in the nation, their highest ranking ever at that time.

5. The 2007 season was one of the most memorable, with the Tigers finishing 12-2 and winning the Big 12 North Division.

6. Missouri has won 15 conference championships, including titles in the Big 8, Big 12, and SEC.

Legendary Coaches

Coaching has played a significant role in shaping the success of Missouri Tigers football. Here are some legendary figures who have led the team.

7. Don Faurot, who coached from 1935 to 1956, is one of the most iconic figures in Missouri football history. The home stadium is named Faurot Field in his honor.

8. Gary Pinkel, the winningest coach in Missouri history, led the team from 2001 to 2015, achieving a record of 118-73.

9. Dan Devine, who coached from 1958 to 1970, led the Tigers to multiple bowl games and a national ranking as high as No. 6.

Iconic Players

Missouri Tigers have produced numerous players who have gone on to achieve greatness in college football and beyond.

10. Kellen Winslow, a Hall of Fame tight end, played for Missouri from 1976 to 1978 and was a consensus All-American.

11. Chase Daniel, one of the most successful quarterbacks in Missouri history, led the team to a No. 1 ranking during the 2007 season.

12. Jeremy Maclin, a standout wide receiver, set multiple school records and went on to have a successful NFL career.

Rivalries and Traditions

Rivalries and traditions add a unique flavor to Missouri Tigers football, making each game an event to remember.

13. The "Border War" with Kansas is one of the oldest and most intense rivalries in college football, dating back to 1891.

14. The "Battle Line Rivalry" with Arkansas is a newer but equally fierce rivalry, with the teams competing for the Battle Line Trophy.

15. The "Homecoming" tradition at Missouri is believed to be the first of its kind, starting in 1911 when alumni were invited back for a football game.

Stadium and Fan Experience

Faurot Field, the home of the Missouri Tigers, offers an electrifying atmosphere that enhances the fan experience.

16. Faurot Field, also known as "The Zou," has a seating capacity of over 61,000, making it one of the largest stadiums in the SEC.

17. The iconic "Rock M" on the north end zone hill is a beloved symbol, created by students in 1927.

18. The "Tiger Walk" is a pre-game tradition where fans line the walkway to cheer on the team as they enter the stadium.

Bowl Game Appearances

Missouri Tigers have a rich history of bowl game appearances, showcasing their competitive spirit on a national stage.

19. The Tigers have appeared in 33 bowl games, with a record of 15-18.

20. Missouri's first bowl game was the 1924 Los Angeles Christmas Festival, where they defeated USC 20-7.

21. The team has played in prestigious bowl games like the Orange Bowl, Cotton Bowl, and Sugar Bowl.

Academic Achievements

Missouri Tigers football players are not just athletes; they excel academically as well.

22. The team has produced multiple Academic All-Americans, highlighting their commitment to excellence both on and off the field.

23. Missouri has a graduation success rate of over 80%, one of the highest in the SEC.

24. The Mizzou Made program helps student-athletes prepare for life after football, focusing on career development and personal growth.

Community Involvement

Missouri Tigers football players and coaches are actively involved in giving back to the community.

25. The team participates in various community service projects, including hospital visits and youth football camps.

26. The "Mizzou Moves" initiative encourages physical activity and healthy living among local children.

27. Players often volunteer at local schools, reading to students and promoting the importance of education.

Records and Milestones

Missouri Tigers football has set numerous records and achieved significant milestones over the years.

28. The team holds the record for the longest winning streak in school history, with 11 consecutive wins in 1960.

29. Missouri's largest margin of victory came in a 110-0 win over Kansas in 1969.

30. The Tigers have produced 13 consensus All-Americans, showcasing their talent on a national level.

Future Prospects

The future looks bright for Missouri Tigers football, with promising recruits and a dedicated coaching staff.

31. The team consistently ranks among the top recruiting classes in the SEC, attracting top talent from across the country.

32. Missouri's state-of-the-art training facilities provide players with the resources they need to succeed.

33. The coaching staff is committed to developing players both athletically and academically, ensuring a well-rounded experience.

Fun Facts

Let's wrap up with some fun and quirky facts about Missouri Tigers football.

34. Truman the Tiger, the team's mascot, was named the "Best Mascot in the Nation" by the Universal Cheerleaders Association in 2014.

35. The team's fight song, "Fight Tiger," has been a staple at games since it was written in 1946.

The Final Whistle

Missouri Tigers football has a rich history filled with thrilling moments, legendary players, and unforgettable games. From their early days to their current standing in college football, the Tigers have shown resilience and passion. They've produced NFL stars, set impressive records, and created a loyal fan base that stands by them through thick and thin.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, there's no denying the impact Missouri Tigers football has had on the sport. Their journey is a testament to hard work, dedication, and the love of the game. As they continue to roar on the field, one thing's for sure: the Tigers' legacy will keep growing, inspiring future generations of players and fans alike. So, next time you catch a game, remember the rich history and the incredible facts that make Missouri Tigers football truly special.