Battle of Quarterbacks: Two of SEC’s Best Face Off In Trophy Game

Hogs' KJ Jefferson, Mizzou's Brady Cook could put on show Friday

Author:
Jacob Davis
Publish date:
Nov 19, 2023 2:29 PM EST

In this story:

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — After setting all the school passing records for Arkansas, KJ Jefferson will get to do one last thing — beat a top 10 team at home — which hasn’t been done since 2016 against No. 10 Florida.

Historically, Jefferson has played some of his best football during the Battle Line Rivalry. The Mississippi native has completed 67% of his passes for 536 yards, six touchdowns and only one interception in three games. He has also tacked on 128 yards and two rushing touchdowns against the Tigers.

Brady Cook led Missouri to the first nine win campaign they've seen since 2014. From St. Louis, Cook’s only Power Five offer was from the Tigers. He has been very efficient during his two seasons as full-time starter completing 67% of his passes for over 6200, 35 touchdowns and 13 interceptions.

The 6-2, 207-pound quarterback had an electric game against Arkansas last season, passing for 238 yards and rushing for 138 yards. Cook scored on a pair of touchdowns on their way to a home upset. He was Missouri’s best runner a season ago and will likely be featured again on Friday. Sam Pittman shared his frustration of Cook’s game following the Hogs' 29-27 loss in 2022.

“We had him hemmed and he’d bounce outside,” Pittman said. “We couldn’t ever get him turned back inside.”

Missouri holds a 2-1 advantage over the Hogs with Jefferson at quarterback. While the Tigers have edged the Razorbacks at their place the last two games, Arkansas dominated in 2021 at Razorback Stadium, 34-17. With a report Pittman’s job is safe for 2024, Arkansas could play loose and free.