Missouri Turns to Freshman Matt Zollers at Quarterback Amid Injury Crisis

Columbia, MO – Matt Zollers, a 19-year-old true freshman from Pennsylvania, has been named the starting quarterback for the University of Missouri Tigers following injuries to both Beau Pribula and Sam Horn, the team announced today.

Head coach Eli Drinkwitz revealed the news during the SEC coaches teleconference, stating that Brett Brown, who recently rejoined the team after briefly entering the transfer portal, will serve as the backup. Pribula dislocated his ankle during Saturday’s game against Vanderbilt, while Horn suffered a broken tibia in Week 1 against Central Arkansas. This quarterback shakeup comes at a critical juncture for the Tigers, potentially impacting their playoff hopes.

Zollers, a former four-star recruit, has appeared in 90 snaps this season and impressed Drinkwitz with his preparation. “I thought Matt did an excellent job in the game,” Drinkwitz said. “Outside of the one turnover – which, ultimately, is on me for putting him in that situation – he did everything he could. He gave us a chance.” The team will rely on Zollers’ development as they navigate a challenging schedule, including a November 8th matchup against No. 3 Texas A&M. For more on college football rankings, see the USA Today Sports college football page.

Drinkwitz emphasized the team will not alter its offensive approach despite the quarterback injuries, stating, “We’re going to have to do what we need to do to win…We don’t operate in a fear mode. We operate in an aggressive mode.” The Tigers are currently 6-2 overall and 2-2 in SEC play, and the College Football Playoff selection committee will release its first rankings next week. Drinkwitz added that the next two weeks of practice will be crucial for Zollers’ preparation, focusing on maximizing his opportunities for improvement.