ESPN.com Preseason Power Rankings
24. Missouri
Quarterback proficiency has allowed Missouri to surge as one of the nation's most consistent programs. And it has allowed Gary Pinkel to feel a sense of security. Brad Smith was explosive. Chase Daniel was accurate. And Blaine Gabbert was rocket-armed. This season, the Tigers will rely on sophomore James Franklin, a mobile, touch passer whose decision-making and leadership will be tested in early-season road games at Arizona State and Oklahoma. Franklin will lean on slot dynamo T.J. Moe and a defense keyed by bookend pass-rushers Jacquies Smith and Brad Madison, who totaled 13 sacks in 2010. The Tigers have won 40 games in the past four seasons, 10th nationally. But there's no division title for Missouri to chase this year, only the likes of the Sooners in the reconfigured Big 12. -- Joe Schad, ESPN reporter
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ESPN Video
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Ron Rivera rings the bell after final day of cancer treatment
Washington coach Ron Rivera receives an ovation as he walks down the hospital hallway to ring the bell after his final day of cancer treatment.
