Key Starters Ruled Out for Cotton Bowl Matchup: Ohio State's Marvin Harrison Jr. Among Those Absent
The Cotton Bowl is just around the corner, and Ohio State will be facing Missouri without several key starters. One player who won't be playing is Marvin Harrison Jr., whose status for the game has been the subject of speculation in recent weeks. Despite the absence of Harrison, no other players are listed as questionable for the game.
Harrison, a standout wide receiver, has not made any announcement regarding his future plans, including whether he will declare for the NFL draft. If he does decide to enter the draft, he is expected to be one of the top picks. This season, he recorded 67 catches for 1,211 yards and 14 touchdowns, adding to his impressive career numbers of 155 catches, 2,613 yards, and 31 TDs.
The 6-foot-4 receiver was named a unanimous AP All-American for the second year in a row and won the prestigious Biletnikoff Award, which recognizes the nation's best receiver. While he has been with the Buckeyes at the Cotton Bowl, he has mostly been on the sidelines during practice sessions.
The Cotton Bowl matchup between Missouri and Ohio State is set to take place on December 29th. Ohio State, currently ranked 7th in the nation, is favored by 4 1/2 points, according to FanDuel Sportsbook. The two teams have met before, with Ohio State leading the series 10-1-1.
For Missouri, this is their first New Year's Six game in the College Football Playoff era, while Ohio State is looking to rebound from a loss to Michigan that cost them a Big Ten title and a playoff spot. One of the key matchups to watch in this game is between Missouri's offense, led by RB Cody Schrader, QB Brady Cook, and WR Luther Burden III, and Ohio State's defense, which ranks third nationally in total yards allowed.
On the Ohio State side, quarterback Devin Brown will be making his first start in a bowl game, taking over for Kyle McCord. For Missouri, Schrader has been a standout rusher, leading the nation in rushing yards per game heading into the bowl season. Missouri's defense has also been impressive, recording 35 sacks and leading the SEC in turnover margin.
Ohio State has a history of success in the Cotton Bowl, winning both of their previous appearances. In 1987, they became the first Big Ten team to play in the Cotton Bowl and defeated Texas A&M. Six years ago, they recorded a victory over Southern Cal. Missouri, on the other hand, has lost their last four bowl games.
As the game approaches, football fans are eagerly awaiting the outcome of this thrilling matchup. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting Cotton Bowl showdown!
