Missouri Tigers vs Central Arkansas Bears Picks and Predictions August 28th 2025

The Missouri Tigers kick off their 2025 season Thursday, August 28, with a non-conference clash against the Central Arkansas Bears at Faurot Field. This is more than a tune-up for the Tigers—it’s a live audition for the starting quarterback role. Head coach Eli Drinkwitz will split snaps between Penn State transfer Beau Pribula and returning backup Sam Horn, with the Week 2 starter vs. Kansas still undecided.

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Missouri opened as a massive favorite, with the spread sitting at -29.5 and the total set around 57.5.

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Missouri Can Win If…

The Tigers must approach this like a statement game—not just a scrimmage. Drinkwitz is demanding live reps from his quarterbacks before naming a true QB1.

“I feel like both of them need to play football,” Drinkwitz said. “They’ve shown leadership and accuracy in practice, but that’s different than game-day execution.”

Missouri comes off a 10-3 season, including a Music City Bowl win over Iowa. With SEC standout guard Cayden Green leading the trenches, Missouri should dominate the line of scrimmage. A strong defensive showing paired with efficient QB play will make this a rout.

Central Arkansas Can Win If…

The Bears must hope Missouri’s offense falters under its two-QB system. While outmatched physically, Central Arkansas does boast two elite FCS linemen in Will Diggins and Jamal Mull, who can help sustain drives and protect their QB.

“Will Diggins has been a starter since the day he stepped on campus,” said Bears coach Nathan Brown. “He needs to have a big year for us to succeed on offense.”

After a 6-6 finish last season—including a late four-game skid—the Bears must play clean, mistake-free football and capitalize on any early Tiger miscues.

Key College Football Betting Trends

The Lean

Model Projection: Missouri 45, Central Arkansas 10
Pick: Missouri -29.5
Total Lean: Over 57.5

Missouri’s depth, defense, and offensive line should control the game from start to finish. Even with a split quarterback setup, expect the Tigers to roll comfortably while Drinkwitz evaluates his QB room under pressure.

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