The Wiz of Odds

Alabama Cheap Shot

Alabama's LaMichael Fanning gets called for unnecessary roughness after power slamming Missouri running back Russell Hansbrough in the closing minutes of the Crimson Tide's 42-10 victory over the Tigers on Saturday in Columbia. The officials then look the other way when Missouri players rough up Fanning on the next two plays.

Missouri's Trip to Central Florida Is a Winner

Wiz correspondent Greg Laughlin spent the weekend in Orlando, where he took in the Missouri-Central Florida game. The Tigers held on for a 21-16 victory at Bright House Networks Stadium before 35,835. That's about 10,000 empty seats for those of you scoring at home.

There are additional photos after the jump and you can view Greg's full gallery by clicking here.

Missouri

Missouri is moving to the Southeastern Conference and with it will come many unknowns. Will the Tigers rise to the challenge, or will playing in what is regarded as the nation's top conference knock the team down a notch? Then there's quarterback James Franklin, who is coming off surgery to repair a torn labrum in his throwing shoulder. Uncertainties aside, this should be fun for Missouri fans, who will get to see Georgia and Alabama at Faurot Field.

Click the image to enlarge. Thanks to Joshua.

Plenty of Good Seats Were Available in Shreveport

You were not alone if you missed Monday's Independence Bowl. Although bowl officials announced that 41,728 tickets were sold, an estimated 5,000 actually made it to their seats.

Also not showing up: North Carolina, which was bludgeoned by Missouri, 41-24.

But an Independence Bowl would not be complete without a love story. One couple spent Monday celebrating their 10th anniversary at the game. They met at the 2001 Independence Bowl while playing in the marching bands of opposing teams.

Missouri Saves Best for Last in Beating Texas Tech

Wiz correspondent Greg Laughlin made his way to Columbia, Mo., on Saturday for the Texas Tech-Missouri game, the final Big 12 Conference home game for the Tigers, who are off to the Southeastern Conference next season.

The Tigers were without coach Gary Pinkel, who was serving a one-game suspension after being served one too many glasses of red wine before getting behind the wheel of his vehicle earlier in the week. Nonetheless, Missouri became bowl eligible with a 31-27 victory.

There are more photos after the jump, and you can view Greg's full gallery by clicking here.

Missouri's 2011 Recruiting Video

Missouri coach Gary Pinkel got popped for driving while intoxicated this week, and here's video from his arrest.

Pinkel has trouble reciting the alphabet and was unable to count backward from 72, something he said he wouldn't have been able to do sober.

Thanks to Larry Brown Sports.