Offensive MVP

Maty Mauk, Missouri

He threw interceptions to end the first two drives but recovered to throw two touchdown passes and rush for another one.

 

defensive MVP

Markus Golden, Missouri

De’Vondre Campbell’s old junior college roommate had 10 tackles, including four tackles for a loss and 1½ sacks.

 

by the numbers

8 Victories for the Gophers, who missed a chance to reach nine wins for the first time since 2003.

6-4 Missouri’s record in bowl games under 14th-year coach Gary Pinkel.

0-3 The Gophers’ bowl record under fourth-year coach Jerry Kill.

44 Sacks this season for Missouri, including two on Thursday.

90 Total yards from KJ Maye, including 75 receiving yards.

2 Touchdown receptions for Missouri’s leading receiver Bud Sasser.

184 Yards gained by each team in the first half.

3.2 Average yards per carry for the Gophers (33 for 106 yards).

12 New Year’s Day bowl games for Missouri’s program.

JOE CHRISTENSEN