Brady Cook Injured in Missouri's Game Against Alabama

In Tuscaloosa, Alabama, on October 26, 2024, Missouri quarterback Brady Cook was sidelined during the game against No. 15 Alabama due to an upper-body injury sustained in the second quarter. This incident marked his exit from the game amidst a performance where he had previously been listed as a game-time decision because of an ankle injury. Cook had briefly returned to the sidelines after heading to the locker room, yet he remained unable to play, resulting in Drew Pyne taking over the quarterback position for the final two series before halftime. The game began poorly for Pyne, as his first pass was intercepted, allowing Alabama to score the first touchdown, increasing their lead to 13-0. Despite Cook’s promising ability earlier in the season, with a 63.1% completion rate, 1,545 passing yards, and seven touchdowns to his credit, his injuries have proven detrimental to Missouri's offensive strategy. Previously, Cook had been injured in the game against Auburn, where he was able to return later in the game, contributing to a significant comeback win for the Tigers. However, his absence in consecutive games raises concerns about Missouri's prospects as they navigate a challenging season filled with injuries. As the Tigers continue their campaign, the impact of Cook’s injuries will test their depth and resilience moving forward, especially considering their ranking and matchup against top opponents.