Marina
The Missouri Tigers are set to host the UMass Minutemen in Columbia for what many expect to be a lopsided contest. Scheduled as part of Homecoming weekend, this matchup brings together two programs in very different places.
Missouri, ranked No. 20 in the nation, has the momentum of a strong season, while UMass continues to struggle to find its footing at the FBS level.
Game Details
The game will be played at Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium in Columbia, Missouri, on Saturday, September 27, 2025. Kickoff is set for 6:30 p.m. CT. Fans can watch on ESPNU or stream the game through WatchESPN.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | Saturday, September 27, 2025 |
| Time | 6:30 p.m. CT |
| Location | Faurot Field, Memorial Stadium, Columbia, MO |
| TV Broadcast | ESPNU |
| Streaming | WatchESPN, Sling TV |
| Teams | Missouri Tigers vs UMass Minutemen |
Missouri’s Outlook
The Tigers have been dominant this season, led by a balanced offense and a defense ranked among the top 25 nationally. Their last meeting with UMass in Amherst ended in a 45-3 blowout, and expectations for this year are similar.
Key players to watch include:
- Quarterback Brady Cook, who has shown precision and leadership.
- Running back Cody Schrader, expected to pound through UMass’s defense.
- Wideout Luther Burden III, whose explosive playmaking continues to draw attention.
Missouri’s goal will be to stay healthy during Homecoming weekend while also showcasing depth by rotating younger players into the game.
UMass’s Struggles
The UMass Minutemen remain in rebuilding mode. Since moving to FBS in 2012, they have not reached bowl eligibility. They recently parted ways with former head coach Don Brown and are now led by Joe Harasymiak, tasked with revitalizing the program.
UMass enters this game at 0-3, having suffered heavy defeats to Iowa (47-7) and Temple (42-10). Their offense has struggled to move the ball, while the defense has given up an average of more than 40 points per game. Against a ranked Missouri team, the odds are heavily stacked against them.
Betting Odds and Predictions
Oddsmakers see this matchup as extremely one-sided. As of mid-week, Missouri is listed as a -43.5 point favorite, with the over/under set at 56.5.
| Matchup | Favorite | Spread | O/U | Prediction |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Missouri vs UMass | Missouri | -43.5 | 56.5 | Missouri 52, UMass 7 |
Prediction: Expect Missouri to cover the spread, dominate on both sides of the ball, and control the game from start to finish. The Tigers’ defense should keep UMass under 10 points, while the offense is likely to hit 50+ if backups contribute in the second half.
Why This Game Matters
Although not a marquee matchup, the game carries significance:
- For Missouri: It’s a chance to maintain momentum heading into tougher SEC play. The Tigers also use the game to celebrate Homecoming with fans and alumni.
- For UMass: This is another measuring stick to evaluate how far the program needs to go in rebuilding. Facing an SEC opponent offers experience for younger players.
The Missouri vs UMass football matchup is expected to be a showcase for the Tigers as they continue their push through the 2025 season.
While UMass looks to find progress under a new coach, the game’s betting line and past performances suggest Missouri will dominate. Fans can look forward to an exciting Homecoming atmosphere at Faurot Field, with the Tigers favored to secure a decisive victory.