South Dakota State @ Missouri preview

Missouri looks to take the first step toward matching last year's surprising 12-2 record when it hosts South Dakota State on Saturday. The Jackrabbits are coming off a school record-tying nine-win season in 2013 and are ranked in the top 10 in the FCS rankings. The Tigers have won their last 12 season openers and are hoping to keep up the momentum of last year's run to the Southeastern Conference Eastern Division title.

While Missouri has a lot of talent back from last year's run, coach Gary Pinkel must replace his top rusher (Henry Josey, 1,166 yards), top passer (James Franklin, 2,429 yards, 19 TDs) and top three receivers (Dorial Green-Beckham, Marcus Lucas and L'Damian Washington, 50-plus catches each). The high-powered offense that scored at least 24 points in every contest a year ago may need some time to get rolling, but Pinkel is confident he has the players to be dangerous once again.

TV: 3 p.m. ET, ESPNU. LINE: N/A.

ABOUT SOUTH DAKOTA STATE (2013: 9-5): The Jackrabbits have been to the FCS playoffs two straight seasons and will be led again this year by senior quarterback Austin Sumner and senior running back Zach Zenner. Sumner set a number of team passing records a year ago, while Zenner has rushed for 2,000 yards each of the last two seasons, giving coach John Stiegelmeier - and the team - lots of confidence heading into the season. “There's two things about the veteran skill guys,” Stiegelmeier said. “No. 1, you feel like you have the go-to guy at every one of the positions, but also the confidence that they give the other members of the team.”

ABOUT MISSOURI (2013: 12-2): Heading into the season, Missouri has the nation's longest current forced turnover streak, having caused an opponent to cough up the ball in 44 straight games. The Tigers' defense prides itself on the streak, trying to force turnovers every day in practice as well. “We've got to get at least three takeaways a day in practice, three-plus takeaways,” defensive end Markus Golden told the Columbia Tribune. “When you do something in practice, it carries over to the game.”

EXTRA POINTS

1. Zenner has 5,871 career all-purpose yards - already a Missouri Valley Conference record - and his 4,529 career rushing yards are just 218 away from the league mark.

2. The Tigers are 10-0 against FCS opponents under Pinkel, winning by an average score of 50.5-7.5.

3. Missouri RB Morgan Steward is doubtful for the game, meaning Marcus Murphy - moving between receiver and running back - likely will see more time in the backfield.

PREDICTION: Missouri 48, South Dakota State 20