Mizzou Football: Good, Bad, Ugly Vs Kentucky Wildcats

Sep 26, 2015; Lexington, KY, USA; Missouri Tigers running back

(32) runs the ball against the Kentucky Wildcats in the first half at Commonwealth Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports

The Ugly: Injuries

Despite the utter lack of offense after the first quarter, Mizzou was still in a position to win the game through most of the fourth quarter. However, what really did the Tigers over was the numerous injuries.

The Tigers better hope Brothers, who led the nation in tackles going into Saturday, can make a full and speedy recovery.

First, there was Russell Hansbrough. He has been nursing an ankle injury all season, and it slowed him down in Saturday’s game. Hansbrough, usually an electric back, rushed for 11 yards on six carries.

Next, there were the injuries to tight end Sean Culkin and right tackle Nate Crawford. These losses forced inexperienced players to block in high-pressure situations, which may have led to some of Mauk’s poor attempts.

Finally, two starters on defense went down. Safety Ian Simon hurt himself diving for an interception and didn’t return to the game. Quite possibly the most devastating of all the injuries was the one to linebacker Kentrell Brothers. An early-season candidate for SEC Defensive Player of the Year, Brothers left the game with a seemingly-painful ankle injury.

Brutal is right. The Tigers better hope Brothers, who led the nation in tackles going into Saturday, can make a full and speedy recovery. Without him, it will be even more difficult for this defense to continue to bail out the lackluster offense.

Next: What's Next For Mizzou Football?