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Central Arkansas at Missouri 2025: Game Preview, Time, Location, Streaming & Odds

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The 2025 college football season kicks off with a diverse mix of games that offer more than just tune-ups — and one matchup worth watching closely is 🏈 Arkansas at Missouri, scheduled for Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 6:30 PM ET. The game, taking place at Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium in Columbia, Missouri, features the Central Arkansas Bears (FCS) stepping into the SEC spotlight to face the Missouri Tigers (FBS).

While Missouri enters as a clear favorite, FCS teams have become increasingly competitive in recent years, and the Bears from Conway, Arkansas, aren’t showing up just to collect a paycheck. For Missouri, this is a critical opportunity to shake off the offseason rust, build early-season rhythm, and establish themselves as serious contenders in the SEC East.

📅 Game Details: 🏈 Arkansas at Missouri

Whether you’re a Tigers die-hard or curious to see if an FCS underdog can disrupt expectations, this matchup offers high entertainment and value in Week 1.

🏟️ Stadium Preview: Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium

Faurot Field, home to the Missouri Tigers, is one of the most historic stadiums in the SEC. Known for its iconic “M” in the north end zone and a seating capacity exceeding 61,000, the atmosphere in Columbia will be rocking. Expect a strong home-field advantage as Tigers fans return with expectations of postseason success.

🔍 Team Overviews: 🏈 Arkansas at Missouri

Missouri Tigers: Eyes on the SEC East

Under the leadership of Head Coach Eli Drinkwitz, Missouri has taken steps toward becoming a consistent bowl team. With strong recruiting classes and increasing offensive firepower, 2025 is being viewed as a potential breakout year.

🔑 Missouri Key Players to Watch:

With a deep offensive line and growing defensive cohesion, Missouri will look to dominate from the first snap.

Central Arkansas Bears: FCS Grit and Speed

Don’t let the “FCS” tag fool you — the Central Arkansas Bears have fielded strong teams year after year in the United Athletic Conference (UAC). Coached by Nathan Brown, the Bears are built around aggressive defense, mobile quarterback play, and a fast-paced offensive system.

🔑 Central Arkansas Key Players:

The Bears will aim to use tempo and misdirection to keep Missouri’s defense honest.

⚔️ Key Matchups

Luther Burden vs. Central Arkansas Secondary

Burden’s elite athleticism and route running could be too much for an FCS defensive backfield. Expect him to be the focus early, particularly on screens and deep posts.

Missouri Defensive Front vs. Will McElvain

McElvain’s mobility will be tested against a fast and physical Tigers front. If Missouri gets pressure, he’ll be forced into hurried throws or sacks.

Darius Hale vs. Mizzou Linebackers

One of the most intriguing battles. Hale has proven he can run on anyone. If he breaks a few early, Central Arkansas might slow down the game and make it competitive.

📈 Betting Preview: Odds, Spread & Over/Under

ATS Prediction: Central Arkansas +30.5

While Missouri should control the game, expect Central Arkansas to keep the final margin respectable with a couple of late scores.

Over/Under Prediction: Over 55.5

With both teams capable of scoring, the Over is in play — especially if Missouri pulls starters late and the Bears take advantage.

⭐ Players to Watch

Brady Cook – QB, Missouri

Poised for a breakout SEC campaign, Cook’s precision and leadership will be on display.

Luther Burden III – WR, Missouri

Could have over 100 yards receiving by halftime. Dynamic and elusive in space.

Darius Hale – RB, Central Arkansas

If he breaks the 100-yard mark against an SEC defense, his NFL stock rises instantly.

Will McElvain – QB, Central Arkansas

Key to extending plays and generating offense with both his legs and arm.

🧠 Coaching Showdown: Drinkwitz vs. Brown

Expect Drinkwitz to treat this game like a test lab — installing new wrinkles while aiming for a dominant but injury-free performance.

📊 2024 Season Recap

Missouri Tigers (2024)

Central Arkansas Bears (2024)

Both teams are coming off solid campaigns. Missouri has legitimate SEC aspirations, while Central Arkansas is one of the more respected FCS programs.

📌 Why This Game Matters

And let’s not forget: FCS over FBS upsets can and do happen — just ask Michigan (App State 2007) or Washington State (Portland State 2015).

❓ FAQs – 🏈 Arkansas at Missouri

Is this Arkansas Razorbacks vs. Missouri?
No. This is Central Arkansas (UCA) vs. Missouri Tigers.

When and where is the game?
Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 6:30 PM ET at Faurot Field in Columbia, MO.

Where can I stream it?
Likely on SEC Network or ESPN+, also available via Hulu Live, FuboTV, and YouTube TV.

Is Missouri ranked?
Preseason rankings TBD, but Missouri is expected to be Top 25 in many polls.

Has Central Arkansas beaten an FBS team before?
Not yet, but they’ve come close. This game gives them another opportunity.

What’s the predicted final score?
Missouri 45, Central Arkansas 17

🏁 Final Score Prediction: Missouri 45, Central Arkansas 17

While Central Arkansas has tools to make this competitive early, Missouri’s talent, size, and depth should prove overwhelming. Expect Missouri to score quickly and often, with the Bears finding some late-game success once the depth chart rotates.

Game MVP: Luther Burden III – 6 catches, 130 yards, 2 TDs
X-Factor: Darius Hale – 85 rushing yards and 1 TD in the second half
Surprise Performer: Missouri TE Brett Norfleet with multiple red zone targets

🧩 Final Thoughts: 🏈 Arkansas at Missouri – Why You Should Watch

Whether you’re an SEC fan, UAC supporter, or general college football enthusiast, 🏈 Arkansas at Missouri offers a perfect blend of elite athletes, underdog fire, and early-season unpredictability.

Here’s what makes it must-watch:

As the 2025 NCAAF season begins, this matchup will show us who’s ready — and who still has work to do.

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