KOMU's Chase For the Championship Blog

So long, farewell... until next year.

2008-12-07T12:59:00.003-06:00

Well, a rough ending to a semi-successful season. OU's beating was an unfortunate wrap up to the team's overall performance over the past several years. The seniors will without a doubt be greatly missed, and I know I can speak for all Tiger fans when I say we're anxious to see what the future holds for the team.

To the Tigers, we as fans appreciate your hard work and dedication. We wish you the best of luck in future years whether or not football is a part of that future.

My Achy Breaky Heart

2008-11-30T15:41:00.002-06:00

Wow. That's about all I can say. Yesterday's loss was definitely not what I nor any other Tiger expected. Is this a lesson to always be prepared for the unexpected? Maybe so. Especially with such a big rivalry. I guess this proves that when you play with heart you can overcome your weaknesses.

Heart is something I thought was lacking in the Tigers until the second half. It seemed that MU went into the game with the expectation to come out with a win and forgot to put their heads in the game. Contrary to that, anyone could tell that Todd Reesing wanted the Showdown win more than anything. He played with heart and passion from the very first minute of the game. So did every other Jayhawk. In my opinion, the heart came a little too late for Mizzou.

Even so, however, the game was a battle and can't be described otherwise. Down to the last minute of the game the winner was still unpredictable. "Showdown," although politically correct, can't begin to describe the intensity of the game. The former term "war" is probably a more accurate word.

But despite the loss, Mizzou will be back at Arrowhead next week to face Oklahoma who was just named the South champion this afternoon. I'll keep my mouth shut about how that game will turn out, but let's just hope for a good game.

Starting the Countdown

2008-11-28T23:20:00.003-06:00

T-12 hours before the big kick-off!! I'm so sad that I won't be able to attend the game this year, but my heart is with every single one of the Tigers and all the fans. I can't wait to see it. I know Mizzou will just blow kU out of the water. There's just no doubt about it. The rivalry is so incredible, and it will be great to win yet again at Arrowhead. So I leave you with this: M-I-Z, Beat k-U!

By the way, in case you haven't heard about it, there is a new documentary coming out strictly based on the Missouri-Kansas rivalry. It looks pretty cool. Click here to see the trailer and read about the director.

It's All About Them Dolla Dolla Bills

2008-11-22T11:09:00.002-06:00

Gary Pinkel is certainly reaping the benefits from Missouri's first back-to-back division titles since the 20s. The Associated Press reported that Pinkel's new contract is going to give him a big raise: from $1.85 million to $2.5 million. The deal isn't complete, but regardless it looks like good ol' Gary will be living more than comfortably (not that he doesn't already). But despite the fact that he'll be around for while longer, some of his coaching staff won't be. New Mexico is looking to steal Dave Christensen (Pinkel's offensive coordinator) and apparently the defensive coordinator is being sought by other schools, too. I guess the seniors aren't the only ones graduating. Read the SI.com story here.

So... Kansas looms in the future. Or does it? I think Pinkel summed it up in his press conference after the Iowa State blowout. He said the KU game is now just the KU game. Mizzou clenched the Big 12 North at Iowa State, so the only thing that rests on next week's game is being able to once again rub it in Jayhawks faces that Missouri is superior. As far as tradition goes, the game isn't any less important than it was last year, but from a division standpoint and a BCS standpoint, there is a lot less pressure.

The game to watch today is without a doubt the Texas Tech-OU match-up. I'm sure I'm not the only one to say I'm anxious to see who will win the South and have to face Mizzou at Arrowhead Stadium for the Big 12 Championship. Personally, I'm pulling for Texas Tech simply because Mizzou played them and beat them last year (but yes, I know, Tech is a different team this year) and because OU is just OU. It's sort of a "been there, done that" situation. Plus, it would make the decision so much easier. If Tech loses today, the South has a three-way tie between Tech, OU and UT. That means to decide who goes to Arrowhead they would have to look at the BCS calculations and decide that way. I'd rather there just be a clear winner.

Regardless, Arrowhead Stadium is the place where it will all happen within the next few weeks. Let's hope the stadium brings MU more luck than it does to the KC Chiefs.

Big 12 North...

2008-11-13T20:52:00.002-06:00

Champs again?? Or are you all too scared to jinx it? ;) It's going to be cold in Ames Saturday!! Highs in the mid-30s with flurries and wind! Nice... Anyone remember two years ago? The game that ended up not counting... what a joke.

IT'S COLD!...

2008-11-07T11:10:00.002-06:00

And it's really time for football weather... Yeah, yeah it was chilly during homecoming against Colorado, but this time it's going to be really cold, especially at night. I'm ready for the last home football game, senior night and seeing everyone blackout the stadium!

Now keep in mind... This senior night is historic. There are 23 seniors to recognize, and about 19 or 20 who play consistently every game. THIS IS HUGE. They have the most wins (34) in their four years (since the 2005 season) than any other team before. They also have the chance to be the second Missouri team to go to a bowl game all four years they played. The other team was in 1981.

So get excited about this weekend and a historic senior class that I'm proud to say I've watched play all four years!

To Follow Up...

2008-11-03T22:12:00.002-06:00

Yes, Kat, they do breed them better in the South. Although, I am biased. But you have to remember that a lot of Southerners travel to places like the Midwest to play football (Chase Daniel, for example). I think the problem with Baylor (or advantage if you're a Baylor fan) is that new quarterback. Griffin is almost the new Sam Bradford. He's young and inexperienced, but I see a lot of potential in him. It's a scary thought. Baylor actually making a comeback?? Definitely not a possibility anyone would have expected.

But you also bring up a good point. A win is a win and will always be a win. No matter the score it goes into the record books in Mizzou's favor, and ultimately that's what matters. Arrowhead will be the test. Let's just hope history will repeat itself.

Some Fans Are Thinking...

2008-11-03T20:53:00.002-06:00

that the Tigers are still hung up on the OSU loss. I read on Tigerboard, and it's a good theory... especially after that close game with Baylor. Let me repeat that - BAYLOR. Do they really just breed football players better in the south or what is it? I never thought the once ranked 3rd Missouri Tigers would come that close to a barely known Baylor Bears football team.

Now, I really don't think the team is hung up on OSU. They're saying forget that, forget Texas, and a win is a win no matter what. Now it's time to see if they can stand up in the north and make it Arrowhead two weekends in a row...

Successful Weekend

2008-11-02T14:30:00.001-06:00

1. Missouri won.

2. Texas lost.

My weekend is complete.

MY GAME AS A FAN!!

2008-10-27T20:34:00.006-05:00

WAS AN AWESOME SHUTOUT!! My friend on the team gave me 2 tickets so I could sit by my friend who was visiting... It was awesome to see the game at the 50 yard line. I met a few parents right from Blair Oaks! (Wardsville)

Before the game, my parents and friends tailgated in Reactor, and it was amazing. My parents are definitely the best cooks ever.

After a little tailgating, my friend Mallory, my mom and I hiked up the hill to the Tiger Walk to see a few of the players before the game. It was so funny to see some of the players' reactions when they realized I wasn't on the sideline! My mom and friend are probably the biggest football fans I'll ever know, so it was probably the highlight of the day...

Oh until the game, of course! Walking in, we saw a black dog who had a Tiger stripe down his back! CRAZY!!...

Like I said, I sat at the 50 yard line above Tiger's Lair, but then I HAD to move to the endzone where the M is. I saw Reed Erickson and Ashley Farrell on the sideline, and it was great. Reed even put me up on the jumbotron for awhile!

A shutout, more records and an overall great homecoming weekend. I couldn't ask for a better game to be a fan at during my last year at Mizzou.

Bouncing Back with a Shutout

2008-10-26T17:55:00.007-05:00

58-0. I think the score speaks for itself. The Tigers were obviously on fire Saturday as they scored touchdown after touchdown, eventually sending the Buffaloes home without allowing a single point. With another sold-out game the team was definitely able to impress all of the alumni who were in town for Homecoming.

Mizzou's passing game was right on target. Chase Daniel had a great game, passing for a total of 302 yards. Each of Colorado's quarterbacks threw for less than 100 yards each. Well done, Daniel.

Chase Coffman definitely deserves a big congratulations for breaking that NCAA record. Daniel pointed out the fact that Coffman still has several more games left in the season to increase the record. Congrats to you, Coffman!

And take a look at Jeff Wolfert, who also had a good game: 3 field goals and 7 extra points. I don't think Colorado's kicker even stepped on the field.

So, faith in the Tigers has been restored (not that it was ever lost in the first place... or at least not by me). Baylor probably won't pose much of a challenge next week, although I'm not going to speak too soon just in case. The chance for a good bowl game isn't completely lost. As long as Mizzou plays to their full potential throughout the rest of the season, things just might work in MU's favor. But I guess the future remains to be seen, and we as fans have to remain hopeful.

Licking Our Wounds

2008-10-20T14:00:00.003-05:00

Well... another rough weekend of football. I don't think very many people expected the Tigers to be slapped in the face so badly. Needless to say, it was a tough loss. The pain might last longer than last week's, but then again every team wins some and loses some. We will all recover from it (eventually) and the Tigers will pick up their feet and keep going. The battle wounds will heal. As long as we still beat KU, I think the season can still be considered successful. Texas is a hard team to beat, and as much as it kills me to say it, they might have earned their #1 ranking. The Longhorns proved their strength, and Mizzou just happened to be the team in the spotlight while they did so. Let's not be fair weather fans. I have faith in the rest of the season. Pick up the pieces and move on... at this point, a bowl game is the light at the end of the tunnel and Mizzou needs to do whatever they have to to get there.

Texas is another world...

2008-10-17T15:39:00.004-05:00

And I love it! Last night we went to a high school football game in Denton, Texas. They had a $22 million stadium, and it was unbelievable. It was great meeting football fans just like we have in Missouri. Brian Smith and Earl Goldsmith both went to school there and everyone knew who they were and that they played for Mizzou! The halftime performance (more like a production show) was based off of the Wizard of Oz and of course it reminded me of Kansas and those Jayhawks.

Anyway... We're in Dallas now working on sending our high school football story back to KOMU to air tonight. After it's done, we're heading to Austin!! Tomorrow is ESPN College GameDay and lots of tailgating... I can't wait to meet some diehard Missouri fans who traveled 13 hours just to cheer on their Tigers.

We'll keep you posted! :)

Nervous Anticipation

2008-10-16T13:16:00.007-05:00

People don't have to know me well to know that I'm obsessed with my home state. Like most Texans, I am prideful almost to the point of arrogance of where I'm from. I proudly show off my 3 x 5 foot Texas flag in my room, and my "y'all" and occasional Texas drawl are constant reminders to friends and strangers alike that I am as Texan as they come. Yes, my family owns a ranch, rides horses and drives SUVs. And one would think that I also grew up bleeding orange with Longhorns all over the house... that's where they're wrong. I was lucky enough to be born into a family of Horned Frogs who bled purple instead. And growing up 10 minutes from the TCU campus, I much preferred watching legendary players like LT (LaDainian Tomlinson for those who don't know of him) break records in good ol' Fort Worth rather than people like Vince Young down in Austin. Longhorn fans bugged me, in fact. They always have and they probably always will. There's just something about that burnt orange and white. What's so great about it? Sure, you have some national titles under your belt and your school is named The University of Texas, but does that really make you that much better than everyone else? Despite my annoyance for all things UT, I learned to keep my mouth shut. Some of my closest friends now call themselves Longhorns, so I just sit back and let them bask in their glory. And that's exactly what they do.

"Hook 'em Horns"..."Texas is number 1!"..."Number 1 feels good"... All are common thoughts this week of my Longhorn friends (according to their Facebook statuses).

So... that brings me to this weekend. The Tigers have the potential to make it an incredible game. Both teams are very talented, and I think this is Chase's opportunity to show UT what they missed out on (but lucky for us they did). I would like more than anything to watch all of my friends down in Austin have to put their foot in their mouth after there's been so much hype about their #1 position.

Unfortunately, I won't be going home to watch the big game; I'll be cheering on the Tigers from St. Louis (an opportunity to see America's Team up close and personal prevents me from going back to the Lone Star state). But the anticipation just keeps building as we get closer to gameday. I have full faith that the Tigers are capable, but the real question is will they prove their capabilities? My fingers are crossed, and I'm sure those of every other Mizzou fan are crossed, too. Tigers, take the game by the horns and get what you deserve: a win.

We're Heading to Austin!

2008-10-15T11:25:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow Mike Rosenhouse and I will be heading to Austin.! We are staying in Dallas on Thursday and hoping to get a little Texas high school football action stories for Friday night at 6... Right before Friday Night Fever! I will keep you posted during our trip, and of course during our 13 hour drive! Should be an exciting weekend for Missouri....

Heartbreak!

2008-10-13T16:35:00.006-05:00

I decided to compromise with the family during Saturday's big game. My in-laws came into town so I left the almost-three year old at home while taking my six-year-old son to the game. He was very, very excited:

That was until things started getting ugly. I started convincing my son to cheer louder by telling him we wouldn't get another snack until after the team scored again. That was a heck of a motivator. He's never really had to watch a game like Saturday, so it was a learning experience about heartbreak. He seemed to be okay with it, probably because he was high on sugar from tailgate cookies and Sprite.

The emotions on the hill were incredible. For one thing, I don't think I've ever seen so many people crowd onto the grass like they did for Saturday's game. My husband and I were lucky to have my father in-law in town so he could take our son out to the hill long before we wrapped up our tailgating fun. My father-in-law also built little wooden seats that make it MUCH more comfortable to sit on the hill. It also gave me a little more leverage when I stood and cheered for the Tigers during the game. My husband spray painted the seats yellow to keep in the theme of Black and Gold. The kids' wooden seats even have "M" painted on them. We only do things classy up in the grassy "cheap seats."

Hunt for Heisman gone, but...

2008-10-12T19:23:00.003-05:00

the Championship is still possible! I think Chase's chance for the Heisman is gone, though. It's ok... It's Missouri. You'll see us seniors and alumni talking about the times when Missouri wasn't even mentioned. I remember being excited when a game was going to be televised at all, let alone ESPN! And GAMEDAY? Wow. That was not even close to a thought in my mind freshman year.

Missouri fans are used to disappointment, and I'm just happy it happened now and not later. Texas is going to be unbelievable... I've been looking forward to that game since my freshman year when they were here. (That was the 2005 National Championship team with Vince Young.) Anyway... get though this week (which is going to be the longest week of my life), watch GameDay in Austin Saturday morning, cheer on the Tigers at 7, and look forward to an easy 3 weeks of Big 12 play.

OH and 11 is my lucky number. So being 11th isn't so bad after all.

Maybe not as bad as it seems...

2008-10-12T00:25:00.003-05:00

Well... a disappointing loss to say the least. I might have been a little too confident and underestimated OSU's abilities. But here's something to think about:

Although Missouri may not be #1 in the country or even in the top 5 after all of this, the loss doesn't really hurt that much. Sure, we'll drop in the rankings, but at the end of the day that's not what really matters. MU will still win the Big 12 North, possibly play Texas in the Big 12 Championship, and then who knows what could happen from there.

Today's loss could actually turn out to be a good thing. The Tigers can get their heads out of the clouds, realize that if they don't play well a loss is possible, and start focusing on next week's game. Plus, Missouri won't have a #1 standing to live up to, which means less pressure.

Texas is not by any means going to be an easy game. Playing in Austin is an incredible feat and Longhorn fans aren't easy to deal with. Not to mention Colt McCoy and his team look pretty good this year. I was actually excited Texas won the Red River game today, but don't expect me to be cheering for the Longhorns again any time soon... (I've always been partial to TCU).

The Tigers need to take this week to prepare for the challenge. Forget about tonight's loss. It's not as bad as it seems.

Low Scoring Half

2008-10-11T20:35:00.003-05:00

With two teams ranked among the top three offenses in the country facing off, a score of 10-7 at half isn't what you'd expect. After 30 minutes of play, the third-ranked Missouri Tigers lead the 17th-ranked Oklahoma State Cowboys by three. While Missouri's defense has made huge strides in the first half, Missouri's offense struggled. Senior quarterback and Heisman hopeful, Chase Daniel (who's wearing No. 25 in honor of Aaron O'Neal) has thrown 12 of 21 for 122 yards and no touchdowns. He's carried the ball four times for a total of 54 yards.

A True Test for the Tigers?

2008-10-10T20:23:00.003-05:00

If you ask the experts, they'll tell you the third-ranked Missouri Tigers haven't been tested yet this season. Even a historical 52-17 win in Lincoln--it took 30 years for the Tigers to get a win--isn't proof that the Tigers might be true contenders for the national title. Tomorrow the Tigers host the 17th-ranked Oklahoma State Cowboys, a team very similar to their own. The offense of the two teams rank among the top three in the nation. The winner of Saturday night's game could very well be the offense with the last possession.

A lingering question for the Missouri Tigers: is the defense good enough to stop Oklahoma State's powerful offense?

If Missouri wins, the Tigers will boast a 6-0 record and will face the Texas Longhorns in Austin next Saturday--a historical game in the making, the Missouri Tigers haven't won there since 1896.

Mike Gundy's Manhood at Stake?

2008-10-10T19:24:00.003-05:00

"Come after me! I'm a man! I'm 40! I'm not a kid, write something about me!"

Well Mike Gundy, you might get your wish after this weekend's game. I can almost guarantee someone will write something about you. The upcoming game seems to be bringing OSU's head coach Mike Gundy to the top of MU's recently viewed YouTube videos list. For those who aren't familiar with it, an article published in The Oklahoman last September stirred Gundy's rant at a postgame press conference after they beat Texas Tech. The article dogged on former OSU quarterback Bobby Reid, much to Gundy's dismay. So, here's this year's question... will Saturday's game prove Gundy's manhood? Will the Cowboys be able to survive over the #3 team in the nation?

My guess is no to both questions. Quoted in The Oklahoman, OSU's linebacker Andre Sexton says "Missouri has some dudes that are explosive." I think he's right. When you look at Maclin and Coffman you see some incredible talent that is definitely unique to MU football, a challenge that OSU has not yet had to face. Like the Tigers, the Cowboys are known for their high scores. They've scored more than 50 points in 4 of their 5 games this year. And I will give them some credit for beating Texas A&M last week in College Station. As a native Texan, I know Aggies are never too happy when they get beat at home. But the Cowboys will definitely go home defeated this weekend.

Regardless, the game will be exciting. It's a night game, nationally broadcasted, and a Big 12 conference game. The Tigers will without a doubt prove their abilities once again. Like many, I'm ecstatic to watch our Tigers continue their winning streak.

So, Mike Gundy, you told the world that you're a man, a man strong enough to take criticism and defeat... will your claim hold true? Are you really the man you said you are? Only time will tell...

Click here to see the infamous Mike Gundy rant: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aoMmbUmKN0E

Fans Have a Say...

2008-10-08T11:04:00.005-05:00

This year the O’Brien has developed several ways for fans to show their Tiger pride. The O’Brien has created a new Facebook application so fans can challenge their friends to show their support. The new application can be found by searching O’Brien Fan Vote and clicking the Applications tab or at http://apps.new.facebook.com/daveyobrien/. Fans can also download widgets that will link any Web site to www.VoteOBrien.org, or www.daveyobrien.org/FAN/fan_widgets.asp

And Daniel and Maclin are top candidates.... Read this article in Sporting News Today...

http://today.sportingnews.com/sportingnewstoday/20081008/?sub_id=Vj40laKyRNnn&folio=CGI

The Family Season Ticket Challenge

2008-10-06T12:00:00.004-05:00

I have two kids. They LOVE going to the Tigers football games. Each game we pile them into the car, park in our super secret parking spot (not that secret but we don't want anyone else going there) and we sit on the hill with the kids on a blanket. We bought the cheapest possible season tickets since we planned to hill sit the whole time -- A two year old and a six year old aren't that great at sitting in the stand without kicking the people sitting in front and wanting to get up and down and up and down.

We love the hill. The view is great. The freedom to move is so much better. But there are challenges:
1. My daughter has almost tumbled down a number of times. I have to use all of my super mommy strength to snag her before she rolls into another group of people - or worse - into someone's food.
2. Bad weather isn't as pleasant on the hill. We lucked out during the last rainy day when someone gave us better seats than our cheap seats that day -- but that won't always work out as well. We'll have to decide if we want to just mud up life or try out the cheap seats.

But I'm facing a real challenge with next weekend's game. It's a night game and I'm pondering over whether I should take the kids or not to the game. The six year old could handle it... but it's the little one I worry about. She loves to tough things out when it comes to football. She LOVED attending the rainy football game last month. But she is two going on three and when she misses too many hours past bedtime, things get kind of ugly. I have a great example from last Friday when we stayed at the Roots 'N Blues BBQ fest too long. But it's so hard for me to hunt for a babysitter when our whole family can be there together. I'd love some thoughts. It's not like my kids will be able to say they got to go to all the home games from the 2008 season again!!

ARCH RIVAL CHAMPS!

2008-09-01T00:38:00.003-05:00

Hey Everyone!...

With Mizzou's win over the Illini last night, I think it's definitely time to get this blog started again. I watched the game on the sideline, and it was amazing to be so close in a huge football stadium with over 66,000 people watching.

Illini's quarterback Juice Williams was way better than I expected. I read earlier that he was working on his throwing game, and he proved it last night.

But I think the true story is Mizzou's runningback Derrick Washington. He's pretty much the next Tony Temple. But as he is only a sophomore, he might be even better than Temple. Anyway, he had 130 yards and two touchdowns... not too bad for a first collegiate start, huh?

And then there's Jeremy Maclin. I really think people are starting to talk about this guy more than Chase Daniel. I was in the Illini endzone when Maclin ran that kickoff return. It was unbelievable. I'll post my video so you can watch just how fast he is. He came out of nowhere!! When I noticed he was hurt in the 4th quarter, I was a little worried... but Pinkel and the other players said he's always one to jump right back in the game. So, no worries... he'll be running a few more 99 yard kickoff returns in no time.

Well get ready for the game against SEMO next week... Should be a blowout, so maybe you'll get to see a few younger guys get some major playing time.

The Long Road Home

2007-12-02T19:23:00.000-06:00

Fourteen hours is a long drive, especially when your stomach is still in knots after Mizzou's loss. We just passed through Norman, Oklahoma and the blogging crew and I have been reflecting on our epic journey. Kudos to Tiger fans who made the trip down to San Antonio. You were outnumbered, but certainly made your voices heard. You have a lot to be proud of. Kudos also to the football team. I don't think anyone could have imagined this dream season. You may not be the champs, but I wouldn't trade this Tiger team for any other in the country.

On the KOMU side, big high five to our news crew. Jim, Megan, Lauren, Eric, Chris, Randy, Scott, Mark, Rog, Jason, Stacey, Stan, Kindle, Chaz, Joe, LT and all the KOMU alums that helped out. A special shout out to our web editor Jen Reeves. This is the gal that made it all happen on this blog. You have no idea how much the blogging team appreciates your hard work. Tiger fans have been AIM messaging us throughout the trip thanking us when they should really be thanking you. And finally, my blogging crew. Charlie, my partner in crime, Vanessa for all her witty one-liners and Caroline for making us look good in our photos. This will be my final post on the blog. Thanks again to everyone. See you back in Columbia!

WE WERE ROBBED!

2007-12-02T19:20:00.000-06:00

I'm not much of a sports statistician but I'm pretty sure Mizzou was robbed.

I'm in St. Louis watching the BCS show at a Fox affiliate and well let me just say that the MU Alumni erupted when they saw that KU and the Illini were in BCS games....
Didn't we beat both of them?
Don't they have just as good of a record as we do? This is absolutely crazy.
The Cotton Bowl are you kidding me??????
I know I shouldn't complain but that is not right. We were robbed.

The Chase is Over

2007-12-02T16:31:00.001-06:00

After Oklahoma's 38-17 victory against Mizzou in the Big 12 Championship game, the Tiger's chase for the national championship is over. No Big 12 Championship, no BCS National Championship, no more chants of "We're number one!" While a likely bid in the Cotton Bowl would signify MU's leap to the next level of college football, the loss isn't any easier to swallow. Tiger fans, let's not mope about what could have been. Yes, a BCS bid would be nice but if I were to guarantee a Big 12 North Championship and a Cotton Bowl appearance at the beginning of the season, I'm sure most Tiger fans would've jumped on it. But this season isn't over yet as Mizzou still has one game left. In the grand scheme of college football, a Tiger win in their first January bowl game since 1969 would mean little, but it would mean a lot to the program. Beating a team from the mighty SEC could determine Missouri's preseason ranking next season, give Gary Pinkel something else to sell in the final month of recruiting, give the Tigers confidence heading into the offseason and, most importantly, send off the senior class with a victory. Let's not kid ourselves, the preseason rankings mean a lot (just ask the 2004 Auburn Tigers), and the higher Mizzou is ranked in August, the better their chances of playing in the BCS title game.

Let's start talking about the 2008 Missouri football team. Offensively, the Tigers will lose WRs William Franklin, Tommy Saunders, and Jason Ray, TE Martin Rucker, OL Tyler Luellen, Adam Spieker, and Monte Wyrick, and maybe RB Tony Temple (he may be granted a 5th year). Lot's of big losses, especially on the offensive line, but the Tigers return a lot of playmakers. Defensively, DL Lorenzo Williams and DBs Pig Brown and Darnell Terrell are the headline graduates. Just think of all the young players who shined this season: Maclin, Washington, Gettis, Weatherspoon, and Alexander just to name a few. Sprinkle the young guns with perhaps Pinkel's best recruiting class and the experienced playmakers like Coffman, Daniel and Moore, and you have all the ingredients for a return trip to the Big 12 Championship.

So, Missouri fans, take today to be upset if you must, but get excited because the best is yet to come! Remember, this season is NOT over yet! Support the Tigers in the bowl game and be proud to be a Missouri fan!

--TP

Email Us Your Fan Pictures

2007-12-01T22:29:00.000-06:00

Send KOMU your best fan pictures! Email us at news@komu.com

What an amazing season

2007-12-01T22:21:00.000-06:00

A year ago, I wouldn't catch me sitting and watch the Big 12 championship. A year ago, I would have never imagined the kind of football season we've had. So even though we can't say Mizzou is going to New Orleans for the title game, this has been an amazing ride. I'm so proud of the team and I can't wait to find out what bowl we get to attend during the bowl announcements tomorrow.

Lauren Whitney Tweets

2007-12-01T22:18:00.000-06:00

KOMU Anchor Lauren Whitney is at the game right now and is sending messages from her cellphone. Click here to watch -- The updates are a little delayed on this blog, but it's live at that link. Here's what she's texted today so far (newest at the top):

*Well that was not fun ill be honest but we need to remember that the season isn't over bowl bound
*This is getting really bad i cant watch
*Thats the Mizzou i love'
*Ok held them there now its time to SCORE!
*Is it just me or was that a touch down? boo ou!
*Tigers 3 to nothing! I love our team
*This is amazing! We are in the Mizzou end zone right next to the band
*Nap time over time to get ready for quite possibly the biggest game ive ever been to!
*Oh wow he picked truman! On to lunch and mexican food!
*Its almost time who will he pick? I will go crazy if he puts on the truman head!
*Game day is great we are getting some face time gotta have that black and gold
*Good morning! We are headed to game day!

We'll take the 2 points Thanks!

2007-12-01T20:54:00.000-06:00

So for the third weekend in a row I'm in the KOMU Newsroom squinting at a tiny TV. We've got the option to watch the game in the conference room and have the broadcast in HD but you can't work in there... So I'm in the Newsroom.

I watched MU play KU while in the newsroom, and MU and K-State so I'm getting used to rooting for the Tigers while at work.

In the last few weeks the phone calls we've gotten on Saturday have been "What channel is the game on?" or "What time is the game?" or "What's the score of the game?" I don't mind telling people to tune into the competition as long as they are rooting for the Tigers.

Tonight we did a really great hourlong show "Chase for the Championship".... if you didn't see it tune in to KOMU.com for some of the video.

We'll also have postgame after the show--- so make sure the Switch is on from KMIZ back to KOMU!

and for today my cheer is MIZ- KOMU- ZOU!!!!!!!
go tigers.

Let's Get Ready to Rumble!

2007-12-01T19:12:00.000-06:00

The games is underway!!!!

As a journalist, I've done my very best to be very fair and balanced... But I have to be honest:

GO TIGERS!!

It looks REALLY cool to see the #! next to Missouri on the score graphic on the screen.

(Sorry it's a little blurry)

Planning to watch it all

2007-12-01T18:58:00.000-06:00

I got the kids in bed and I'm ready to watch the whole game... Unfortunately, the UCLA/USC game is still on!! Ahhhh! I hope ABC delays the start for the MU-OU game!

I hope everyone enjoyed the Chase for the Championship special on KOMU. If you didn't get to watch, expect to see it online HERE.

Chase for the Championship: Behind the Scenes

2007-12-01T17:36:00.000-06:00

KOMU's hour long Chase For the Championship special starts in just a few minutes at the top of the hour. Join Megan Murphy, Jim Riek, Eric Blumberg, a host of reporters, a couple other special guests, and maybe another appearance from some top-notch bloggers! Until then, take a look at some behind the scenes video we shot at the Alamodome in the parking lot.

A 5 year old's Mizzou Pride

2007-12-01T16:59:00.000-06:00

To the Alamodome

2007-12-01T16:02:00.000-06:00

We grabbed lunch on the River Walk and are now on our way to the Alamodome. We'll be catching up with some Mizzou fans as well as preparing for the one-hour pregame tailgate show with some of KOMU's finest. Traffic in downtown San Antonio has been difficult to navigate to say the least, but we're not going to let anything keep this blog down.

One more thing to pass along...our tiger tail that was harmlessly hanging from the trunk of the Grand Am has been STOLEN! We can handle the lost tail if the Tigers bring home the title tonight.

--TP

Profilet's Pick: Big 12 Championship Edition

2007-12-01T15:57:00.000-06:00

As you may remember from the Opening Drive on KOMU.com, I like to pick the winners of any and all high school football games in mid-Missouri. I have never picked a Mizzou game all season, but this one is special, so I bring you a special edition of Profilet's Picks.

GO TIGERS!

--TP

**NOTE from Jen Reeves: The embedded video player is acting odd, so here's the link to YouTube if you can't see Profilet's Picks.

Just Got a Text Message

2007-12-01T15:34:00.000-06:00

After having a text message conversation with Charlie Hannema, the word on the street in San Antonio is the Alamadome has already run out of parking. Our Road Trip team was thinking about mingling with the Tiger fans out there... But now they're worried they won't find a place to park.

I'll let you know if I hear anything.

T 'was The Night Before Game Day

2007-12-01T12:06:00.000-06:00

T ' was the night before Game Day, when all through the house

Not a creature was stirring, not even in the frat house;

The tailgates were set outside the Alamodome with care,

In hopes that Chase Daniel soon would be there;

The fans were nestled all smug in their heads,

While visions of victory danced in their heads

And Gary Pinkel in his vistor, and Hannema in his sweater vest

Had just settled down for a night cap, then rest

When out on the River Walk there arose such a clatter,

They sprang OFF THE BENCH to see what was the matter.

Away from the locker room they flew like a flash,

Tore open the play books as they heard a loud clash,

The moon on the breast of the lack of December snow

Gave the luster of mid play to objects below.

When what to my wondering eyes should appear,

But Truman the Tiger and eight large linebackers near!

With a pounding momentum so lively and quick

I knew in moment this season they were slick

More rapid than Sooners there courses they came.

And Truman roared and growled and called them by name;

"Now Coffman! Now Maclin! Now Temple and Franklin! On Spieker on Ray on Rucker and Bracey!"

To the top of the stands! To the top of the wall!

Now to the fifty yard line,

dash away, dash away, dash all!

But I heard him exclaim as he drove out of sight,

"Happy Game Day to all, and to all a victory tomorrow night!"

.... So maybe last night wasn't exactly like that, but here we are and its Game Day, in San Antonio! On this first day of December Christmas couldn't be further from anyones mind. Its 73 degrees and the temperature is rising as the rivalry between the Tigers and Sooners heats up. We'll have more for you soon!

Game Day

2007-12-01T11:54:00.000-06:00

Megan, Jason and Justin spent the morning with the ESPN gameday crew and thousands of screaming fans. they're putting together their stories for our HUGE one-hour pregame show tonight at 6:00. We'll give you a complete scouting report and look back an amazing season. we'll the KOMU crew is slowly gathering at the Alamodome. We'll see you there!

Fun in Marlin, TX

2007-12-01T11:36:00.000-06:00

During our short stay in Marlin, Charlie and I took some time out to relive our high school football glory days. Here's how we finished our time at the Dawg Pound.

--TP

Corso Picks Missouri

2007-12-01T11:16:00.000-06:00

As part of ESPN College Gameday, analyst Lee Corso ends the show by picking the winner of the game of the week. And, for the second straight week, Coach picked the Tigers! Lots of Mizzou fans were at the Alamo this morning to watch the Gameday crew, and they were certainly pleased to see Lee predict a Tiger victory. Check back later for Profilet's pick!

--TP

Catching up on the Past

2007-12-01T10:54:00.000-06:00

Danario Alexander's 118 yards and one touchdown against Kansas last week helped propel the Tigers to the Big 12 North title. We payed a visit to Danario's high school in the small town of Marlin, Texas and caught up with his former coach, Cassius Johnson. Take a peek.

--TP

Bet you didn't know...

2007-12-01T10:14:00.000-06:00

...that Missouri's fight song comes from a World War I British army marching song. The song is called "It's A Long Way to Tipperary," and I've posted the lyrics below. Here's the audio.

Up to mighty London came
An Irish lad one day,
All the streets were paved with gold,
So everyone was gay!
Singing songs of Piccadilly,
Strand, and Leicester Square,
'Til Paddy got excited and
He shouted to them there:

It's a long way to Tipperary,
It's a long way to go.
It's a long way to Tipperary
To the sweetest girl I know!
Goodbye Piccadilly,
Farewell Leicester Square!

It's a long long way to Tipperary,
But my heart's right there.

Paddy wrote a letter
To his Irish Molly O',
Saying, "Should you not receive it,
Write and let me know!
If I make mistakes in "spelling",
Molly dear", said he,
"Remember it's the pen, that's bad,
Don't lay the blame on me".

It's a long way to Tipperary,
It's a long way to go.
It's a long way to Tipperary
To the sweetest girl I know!
Goodbye Piccadilly,
Farewell Leicester Square,
It's a long long way to Tipperary,
But my heart's right there.

Molly wrote a neat reply
To Irish Paddy O',
Saying, "Mike Maloney wants
To marry me, and so
Leave the Strand and Piccadilly,
Or you'll be to blame,
For love has fairly drove me silly,
Hoping you're the same!"

Game Day Game Plan

2007-12-01T09:47:00.000-06:00

Hey guys, we're all alive and well in San Antonio. This city is so beautiful! We got into town and immediately went to dinner with the KOMU crew at the fajita restaurant Megan Murphy discovered. We're working on uploading some new video for you and we're tuned in to ESPN's Game Day live from the Alamo, you should tune in too!

Here's the plan for today: Charlie and Tyler will be making an appearance live on KOMU's one hour pregame show, which starts at 6:00 tonight. We'll have some more stories for you from our reporters and Jim Riek will have some special guests you don't want to miss. Then we'll all head into the dome for the big game! We're not allowed to bring in our digital video camera, but Tyler got permission to bring the still camera in, so look for some fun photos from the Mizzou fan section!

Thanks for stickin' with us, the chase for the championship is running full speed ahead.
-Vanessa

Tiger Cheers!

2007-11-30T22:55:00.000-06:00

A couple of Mizzou students, Shauna Fredrickson and Caitlin Garing, found all kinds of different Tiger cheers and put this together for your enjoyment:

This video is courtesy of MyMissourian

HOORAY Road Trip Bloggers

2007-11-30T22:22:00.000-06:00

Tyler and Charlie just went live on KOMU News at 10 -- Congrats guys. You look and sound exhausted. Hopefully they'll get a shower and enjoy the excitement out on the Riverwalk tonight.

Update from the crew

2007-11-30T21:27:00.000-06:00

I just had a chat with Charlie Hannema - The entire team of road trippers are in San Antonio and made it to the live location: The Riverwalk.

Here's the scoop. Apparently they are dealing with a classic case of "Road Trip Fatigue." While Charlie and Tyler go live during KOMU News at 10, Vanessa and Caroline went to the hotel to charge up the computer and take a shower. Why is that important? Well, Charlie made a point in telling me that they are all kind of stinky. The previous night's (or morning's) sleep in a frat house didn't give them a chance for a shower. That may make for an interesting live interview tonight.

Charlie tells me that the computer's battery ran out, his phone is almost out of battery power and he thinks his car may be in the same boat. BUT they are there after feeling very lost in the San Antonio dark.

Hopefully the crew will be able to get back online tonight so everyone can chat with them and get a few more peeks into their day.

Darn batteries

2007-11-30T20:57:00.000-06:00

I just text messaged the road trip crew -- They disappeared because the darn computer battery wouldn't charge -- even though I gave them a car charger. RATS!

They're on their way to the KOMU live location in San Antonio to use some power there! Plus, you'll have a chance to see our team live during KOMU News at 10.

Backseat Blogging

2007-11-30T14:54:00.001-06:00

Hey everyone, now that the boys have forfeited their blogging positions to get a little rest, it's my turn to blog!
I've been enjoying the ultimate road trip from the backseat, taking in the landscapes of Oklahoma and Texas. Riding as a backseat passenger isn't so bad with a full Internet connection. Our blog posts and having the ability to chat with all of you has kept us busy and entertained. Have we explained to you exactly how we're able to blog from the backseat of a car?
Here's how it works: We're using Charlie's new MacBook with a wireless Internet card. The wireless card has a CD software which we installed and now we can pick up an Internet connection from anywhere, yes even the middle of nowhere Texas. We're also fully equipped with a Nikon still photo digital camera, which KOMU's Caroline Gable has been using to capture our favorite moments, and a Panasonic digital video recorder. Jen Reeves, who is hanging back at the station, has been very helpful getting us all set up and showing us how to use this amazing technology. Blogging definitely beats those backseat rides in the old family minivan!
Looks like Jen thought we were disconnected for a while in rural Marlin, Texas, but we were actually stopping to dig up a little Missouri Tiger history and taste the finest BBQ Marlin has to offer. Check our next blog for a full explanation of what we did and saw... and ate in Marlin.
Right now we're about 3 hours from San Antonio, we'll have more updates for you soon.
-Vanessa

The Team Is On Its Way

2007-11-30T13:11:00.000-06:00

Here are pictures of the team leaving from the Columbia Airport:

Road Trip Update

2007-11-30T13:03:00.000-06:00

The wireless card that's keeping our blog team online isn't working really well in rural Texas. At the last update, they werre in Marlin, TX.

Behind the Scenes: The Alamo

2007-11-30T12:49:00.001-06:00

Our morning crew had a great opportunity to broadcast live from The Alamo... It included history lessons, burritos and mariachi music!

Behind the Scenes: Riverwalk

2007-11-30T12:32:00.000-06:00

Managing Editor Randy Reeves caught these moments (and scenic views) from their live location yesterday on San Antonio's Riverwalk.

Waiting for the team

2007-11-30T12:13:00.001-06:00

Check out all kinds of extra KOMU video from the Pep Rally HERE. We also have a couple of crews waiting to see the team leave for San Antonio from the airport. I'll post some pictures really soon. I also just got a bunch of photos from our San Antonio crew from last night's newscasts and this morning's AMAZING morning show from The Alamo.

We just got a call here in the KOMU newsroom where a viewer called us from the road. He wanted to let us know that he saw one of our station vehicles on the way to San Antonio... And made sure we knew they were driving responsibly! That's a call you don't usually hear!

I may not be able to be in San Antonio, but we're having fun covering the Missouri excitement from here.

A Short Stay in the Big D

2007-11-30T11:17:00.001-06:00

As I mentioned last night, the road trip crew stayed the night on the campus of SMU. We arrived at roughly 2:30 am, but the Sigma Chi house was still hopping. The boys were just coming in from a night in the city, so we certainly came at a great hour to get the feel of the house. The guys at Sigma Chi were more hospitable than we could have asked for. Sure, the hallways were a little messy, but it’s college. A special shout-out to Christmas decorator extraordinaire, Wes Gable, who cleaned up and let us take over his room for the night. Thanks again, buddy. Our night was, in the words of Caroline Gable, “Frat-tastic.”

--TP

Tiger Fans Big Story in USA Today

2007-11-30T10:56:00.000-06:00

It’s safe to say the Missouri Tigers have flown under the radar most of the season. Before last week, none of the so-called college football “experts” thought Mizzou had a chance to play for the national title. The experts and Vegas odds-makers favoring the Sooners in the Big 12 Championship hasn’t deterred Tiger fans. The USA Today highlighted YOU today…yes, YOU Tiger fans! The author asked running back Tony Temple what the school’s identity was. Is MU a basketball school, football school or has the lack of championships in either sport left it as a journalism school? Here is Tony’s response:

"When we came here, we knew Missouri was known as a basketball school, but we're trying to change that. Our school is known for Brad, Sheryl and journalism. But, it might be a football school one day."

I’d have to say that day has arrived. Look around Columbia and see the school spirit, look at how fans traveled to KC and how many fans will be in San Antonio. I have a hunch there will be even more in New Orleans…but we’ll have to see.

--TP

Ultimate Road Trip Playlist - Lauren Whitney

2007-11-30T09:47:00.000-06:00

Now with four hours of sleep under our belts, we're ready for the remaining 250 miles of road between Dallas and San Antonio. We had an interesting night at SMU to say the least...more on that later. For now, we're grabbing some coffee and grub before hitting the road. Let's crank up some tunes from Lauren Whitney's playlist.

Country Grammar - Nelly
Fight Tigers! - Marching Mizzou
Sexy Back - Justin Timberlake

This trio of tunes is getting us jacked up this morning. GO TIGERS!

--TP

Long Day, Short Night

2007-11-30T08:05:00.000-06:00

24 hours after we hit the ground in San Antonio and we really haven't slowed down. We had a great time on the Riverwalk last night. But, this morning: WOW! We broadcast a huge chunk of KOMU News Today from the front lawn of the Alamo. Yes, that Alamo. But, it gets better. Thanks to the intrepid work of Megan Murphy, we had the best fajita chef in the city show up to cook his signature dish. And... he brought an 11-piece Mariachi band to set the tempo for one of the better cooking segments in KOMU history. we're back at the Alamo at noon and then we're headed to the dome for tonight's 5:00 and 6:00 newscasts. Look for us back on the Riverwalk tonight.

Whew!

2007-11-30T02:23:00.001-06:00

That’s pretty much says it all. An eleven-hour journey from Columbia to Dallas has finally come to a close. Caroline, our road trip photographer, has some connections in the Big D, as her brother, Wes, is a sophomore at SMU. Tonight, we’ll crash at the Sigma Chi fraternity house on campus. A college road trip would not be complete without experiencing another campus…even at 3:00 in the morning. Thanks for staying up with us tonight! We’ll be back on the road bright and early tomorrow as we finish the drive to San Antonio. On tap for tomorrow: more road trip playlists from KOMU anchors, a Texas high school football experience and the River Walk. Please continue to send us your questions, predictions and thoughts about the Big 12 Championship. Feel free to comment after any of our posts or chat with us by using the AIM widget at the top of the page. We love hearing from you! Goodnight (morning) and GO TIGERS! Only 51 hours to kickoff!

--TP

Ultimate Road Trip Playlist - Eric Blumberg

2007-11-30T01:46:00.000-06:00

We just crossed into the great state of Texas! Dallas is approaching slowly but surely. We heard the Cowboys scored a big victory tonight over the Packers, so we expect Texans to be in a good mood tonight.

As we cross into Texas, we change our tunes to Dallas native Eric Blumberg’s favorites. Here were his suggestions for the trip.

Guns ‘N Roses
50 Cent
Sports Talk Radio

As is typical with Eric, he is very specific about what he likes. Sports talk radio? Yeah, at 1:00 in the morning, two guys yelling at each other about the BCS is really going to keep us from driving off a bridge. Who’s the kid here, are you kidding me?

--TP

Fun in Norman

2007-11-30T01:43:00.000-06:00

How could we pass up a stop in Norman, Oklahoma? We pulled over in Norman to preview the OU offense vs. the MU defense…and to have a little fun. Anyone remember Rhett Bomar? We do. Take a look.

A Change at the Top

2007-11-30T00:51:00.000-06:00

Finally, Charlie has taken the wheel. The first 472 miles would have been painful had it not been for great food, great friends and most importantly, hot jams. I think everyone in the car had a chance to grab some shut-eye in the car, except for me of course. But hey, I’m so pumped for the game, I could drive the whole way! The Grand Am is officially past the halfway point on this epic trek to San Antonio. And, for the first time on the trip, we passed another car with a tiger tail hanging out of the trunk! We can’t wait to be reunited with Tiger fans in the Lone Star State. It’s nearly one in the morning and we have a couple of hours to go yet. With plenty of Red Bull in hand, we should be fine.

--TP

Joke-lahoma

2007-11-29T22:47:00.000-06:00

Hello from Oklahoma City! We have knocked out 450 miles, with hundreds still to go. We are about to stop in Norman to take a look around at this late hour. One cool thing to point out about Oklahoma City is that two or three of their skyscrapers downtown have huge lit-up crosses on them--similar to the "Go Sox" deal near Fenway Park. I tell you this, because it's probably the first cool thing we've seen in Oklahoma.

Enjoy some jokes below. If you laugh three times, we'll call it a success. By the way, use the chat box at the top of the page to give us some feedback. Were our jokes funny? Do you have a better one? Let us hear it!

A Blogging Slideshow

2007-11-29T22:31:00.000-06:00

Our crew uploaded a bunch of pictures from their trip so far. Here's a look:

Ultimate Road Trip Playlist - Jim Riek

2007-11-29T21:41:00.001-06:00

We are about 15 miles away from Tulsa and chugging along. It's probably for the best that it's dark here on I-44 in Oklahoma, it's not like we're missing anything scenic...

In the official Ultimate Road Trip Grand Am we have switched to the radio for now to mix things up, but here are KOMU anchor extraordinaire Jim Riek's top three driving songs:

1. "China Grove" - Doobie Brothers (word on the street is Jim may be doing a story about China Grove later on in the week, we'll keep you posted)
2. "Ridin' Dirty" - Chamillionaire
3. "Tubthumping" - Chumbawumba

Enjoy.
-Charlie

P.S. We may or may not have made up two of the three songs on Jim's list.

One day of stories, done!

2007-11-29T20:34:00.000-06:00

We just finished a hectic day of shooting stories for our newscasts tonight. Be sure to watch Justin Redeker's story on authentic Mexican food in San Antonio, tonight on KOMU News at Ten.

Speaking of Mexican food, we were all thankful to eat large quantities of the stuff after we were through with the Five and Six O'Clock newscasts. That reminds me: we have a special musical surprise coming up, all on KOMU News at Ten -- you DON'T want to miss it.

Tomorrow, we'll be heading to the San Antonio Airport as more Tiger fans arrive here in Texas in advance of Saturday's game.

Until then, I'm going to get some rest. We'll see you on the air and online from San Antonio!

Journeying with Josh

2007-11-29T20:31:00.000-06:00

As we've mentioned earlier, we stopped to chat with former KOMU and now KSPR-TV meteorologist Josh deBerge. Here's the video.

We've gone about 250 miles, with hundreds still to go. Next stop: Norman.

-CH

Ultimate Road Trip Playlist - Angie Bailey

2007-11-29T19:53:00.000-06:00

We just finished dinner in Springfield with former KOMU meteorologist Josh deBerge. Zio's in Springfield is top notch Italian eating, highly recommended. We are uploading the video of our chat with Josh right now. Until then, enjoy Angie Bailey's top three car songs.

1. "Wicked Game" - Chris Isaak
2. "Free Fallin'" - Tom Petty
3. "Wannabe" - Spice Girls

"Journeying" to Dinner

2007-11-29T17:20:00.000-06:00

We've set up a reservation at Zio's in Springfield for dinner with a familiar face to everyone in KOMUland. Let's just say he has plenty of advice about taking long journeys. We'll catch up with him, and post some video later in the night. Our video posting system has been being a little shady with our wireless internet card, but hang with us, it will be worth it!

125 miles down, hundreds to go...
CH

Givin' 'Em The Business (Or Getting It)

2007-11-29T16:05:00.000-06:00

Feel privileged, because we're letting you in on a KOMU cult legend. You may have heard Jim Riek, Eric Blumberg, myself, or someone else use some sort of the phrase "Giving 'Em The Business."
What exactly does that mean? Nobody really knows. Here's the history. In a 1986 NFL game between the Buffalo Bills and the New York Jets, there was a personal foul against Bills QB Jim Kelly. When announcing the penalty, referee Ben Dreith said, "He was giving him the business down there!" (Watch here)

Last week, "the business" came back when ACC ref Ron Cherry came up with this beauty...

And today, Tyler GOT the business from MU's Parking and Transportation Services. Watch him explain in the video below. (note: Tyler's car was towed unexpectedly right before the crew left town)

Ultimate Road Trip Playlist - Megan Murphy

2007-11-29T15:44:00.000-06:00

22 miles down, hundreds to go...but it's time to unveil the first part of the "KOMU Ultimate Road Trip Playlist." Check back throughout the night and the rest of the weekend as we'll be releasing favorite songs from KOMU anchors and staff. KOMU News Today anchor Megan Murphy (or the Murph-dawg as we call her) starts us off.

Here are Megan Murphy's Top 3 Ultimate Road Trip Songs:

1. "Paradise by the Dashboard Light" - Meatloaf

2. "You Shook Me All Night Long" - AC/DC
3. "Dixieland Delight" - Alabama

Check back later for more hot jams on the KOMU Ultimate Road Trip Playlist!

On Their Way

2007-11-29T15:40:00.000-06:00

I caught some pictures of the Road Trip Team as they left for the Big 12 Championship.

On The Road!

2007-11-29T15:26:00.000-06:00

We have finally departed on the KOMU Ultimate Road Trip to San Antonio...
Tyler Profilet is in the driver's seat of our sweet 1998 Pontiac Grand Am (fully equipped with Tiger Tail), I'm riding shotgun, and we are joined by KOMU's finest Vanessa McClure and Caroline Gable in the backseat. We're traveling south on 63 to Highway 54 and going from there. We've got all kinds of good stuff in store for you on the trip, hope you enjoy. By the way, we're online and interactive at "komuroadtrip" on AOL Instant Messenger. Feel free to send us a question and we'll answer it throughout our journey. Remember to include your name and town! We left KOMU around 3, and it's going to be a late night before we get arrive in Dallas. Come along for the ride!

-CH

Pre-Trip Thoughts

2007-11-29T13:17:00.001-06:00

We are about an hour away from leaving the station in our sweet 1998 Pontiac Grand Am on our "KOMU Ultimate Road Trip" to San Antonio. This will be the second longest road trip I've ever taken (I drove from Bristol, CT to Columbia two summers ago), and the first time KOMU blogger Tyler Profilet visits the states of Oklahoma and Texas.

Before we hit the road, I wanted to pass along some updates concerning Missouri's tight ends. Martin Rucker was named a first-team All-American by the American Football Coaches Association today. He's the 27th Missouri football All-American, and the first since Justin Smith won in 2000. T-Ruck is Mizzou's first All-American TE since a guy named Kellen Winslow back in 1978, and he seemed to have an okay career...

Here are some quick stats on Rucker:
--194 catches for his career, seven short of breaking Justin Gage's career record (200, if you don't like math)
--2,080 career receiving yards
--18 career receiving touchdowns

An update on Mizzou's other tight end, Chase Coffman:
Last we've heard he's questionable for Saturday's game, but I saw him in between classes and he's still not anywhere near 100%. He told me in passing that his ankle was "alright, but getting better." He seemed to walk away gingerly, but I'm not a doctor, nor a member of the Mizzou Sports Medicine team, so take that with a grain of salt.

Back to packing, we'll have more from the road soon!
CH

On the Ground

2007-11-29T11:15:00.000-06:00

The KOMU team has arrived in San Antonio and we're spreading out over the town. We'll show you the sights live tonight on KOMU News at 5:00, 6:00, and 10:00.

Crunching the Statistics

2007-11-29T00:25:00.002-06:00

With a chance at the National Championship Game on the line for Missouri, the Tigers need a victory against the Sooners next week. Here’s a look at how the big play-makers for the Tigers and the Sooners stack up. Offensive players are compared to teammates. Special teams and defense players are compared to their counterparts.

Click here or click the preview image above to view the graphic.

Kansas City

2007-11-28T22:03:00.000-06:00

Part of the KOMU team is in Kansas City tonight, resting up for three long days in San Antonio. Tomorrow night, we'll talk to those Texas Tigers, plus give you a close look at what makes San Antonio special. We'll see you live on the Riverwalk Thursday night at 5:00, 6:00 and 10:00.

Texas Tigers

2007-11-28T16:50:00.000-06:00

This year's Big 12 Championship game is exciting for any MU fan, but for MU alums who live in San Antonio, the match-up will be extra special. We've just confirmed an interview with a couple who graduated from MU years ago who live in the Lone-Star State, and will be heading to the Alamodome on Saturday. They describe themselves as "long-suffering fans, having left in the Devine era and the Orange Bowl." I'm looking forward to talking with these two tomorrow as the big game is finally coming to THEM this year! Watch for that story tomorrow as we follow the Tigers' Chase for the Championship. We're broadcasting LIVE from San Antonio, starting Thursday on KOMU News at Five.

Rollin'

2007-11-28T12:08:00.000-06:00

The KOMU Satellite truck left the corral just now, heading to good old San Antonio. We have tons of coverage planned for you over the next four days. Jim Riek, Chris Gervino, Eric Blumberg and Megan Murphy will tell you everything you need to know about the city, the game, the teams and the fans. We'll be live on the Riverwalk starting Thursday at Five. Look for updates from the road.

San Antonio or Bust!

2007-11-28T11:24:00.000-06:00

There's nothing like trying to get ready for a trip of this magnitude. I'm not sure if there are enough hours in the day to accomplish all I want to do... but I'll create them if need be!

My trip will begin tomorrow morning at two when we hop in the car to catch our 7am flight out of KC. Packing was entertaining... nothing like packing short sleeves in November. All I have done today is make phone calls. I think I've talked to everyone imaginable in San Antonio, and our segments look very promising.

The story I am most excited about is a profile on the MU Cheerleaders, Golden Girls, and Truman the Tiger. They will all be cheering at ESPN's Game Day on Saturday morning, and I'll be there with them. No basket tosses for me, though!

And, there is the possibility that we will be cooking fajitas on Friday's morning show. I've heard they are amazing!

Be sure to check in with our KOMU team Thursday night at 5 live from the Riverwalk. It should be exciting!

Border Showdown Coverage

2007-11-26T15:07:00.000-06:00

If you're interested in seeing how KOMU covered the big Border Showdown game between MU and KU, feel free to visit it on KOMU.com

Welcome to this blog!

2007-11-26T14:26:00.000-06:00

The chase is on for the Missouri Tigers! We're planning to blog from a number of perspectives here. Keep your eye out for blogs from student road trippers, KOMU reporters and more as Mizzou works its way to a possible national championship!! (Knock on wood)

LIVE BROADCASTS

2007-11-02T15:32:00.000-05:00

This is where you have a chance to see Tyler and Charlie talk about their roadtrip experience at the Big 12 Championship.

Watch live video from komu on Justin.tv