Fri Oct 04 16:57:00 UTC 2024: ## Missouri Southern Lions Face Tough Test Against Ranked Central Oklahoma Bronchos
Joplin, Missouri – The Missouri Southern Lions (1-4) will host the 17th-ranked Central Oklahoma Bronchos (4-0) this Saturday in a crucial MIAA football contest. The Lions are looking to build on their first win of the season, a 27-20 comeback victory against Emporia State, but face a daunting challenge against the undefeated Bronchos.
MSSU head coach Atiba Bradley acknowledged the formidable task ahead, stating, “Central (Oklahoma) is a very good football team… We just have to make sure we’re lined out, a little more disciplined and ready to go.”
The game pits the Lions’ struggling offense against one of the most prolific offenses in the MIAA. The Bronchos average 52.5 points per game, led by their powerful rushing attack that has amassed 989 yards this season. In contrast, MSSU sits at the bottom of the conference with only 16.4 points per game and just nine touchdowns.
Adding to the challenge, the Lions will have to contend with a strong UCO defense that has allowed only 20.3 points per game and surrendered just 11 touchdowns.
Despite the disparity in offensive statistics, Bradley emphasized that his team has shown resilience in their recent win. “A team with shaky confidence would’ve just shipped it in and called it a day, where we saw the opposite,” he said. “They dug their heels in and got it done.”
The Lions are hoping to find offensive consistency, especially with key injuries to receivers Deontay Campbell and Akeem Gilmore. Quarterback Luke Sampson, the most experienced player on offense, is looking to lead the team toward a more efficient attack.
The game kicks off Saturday at [time] at [location].
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