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The Missouri Tigers (4-1, 1-1 Southeastern Conference) traveled to the University of Massachusetts on Saturday to play the UMass Minutemen (1-5, 0-0 FBS Independent) but running back Nate Noel was mysteriously absent in the first half. Noel has played every game of the season so far and there was no talk of him missing the game before kickoff. However, when the Tigers took the field, Noel was not available for the offense.
What happened to Nate Noel?
It is not clear what caused Nate Noel to be injured and there has been no update from the team However, UMass beat writer Eli Hoff reported that Nate Noel would be absent for the entire game due to back tightness. He reportedly warmed up so it is not clear if something happened after or if he was testing to see if he could play and determined it was not possible.
When will Nate Noel return?
There has been no report from the team to indicate how long he will be out. However, if the only reason he missed the game is because of back tightness, it is reasonable to expect he could return next week.
The coaching staff will likely address Noel missing the game in the postgame presser or an early week media availability.
How will Nate Noel's absence affect the Missouri offense?
Noel is an integral piece of the Tigers offense. He is their leading rusher and will likely remain in that spot despite missing the game against UMass. He has 471 yards and two touchdowns on 79 carries through five games this season. That gives him more than double the next leading rusher, Marcus Carroll (190 yards).
With Noel out of the lineup, the team needs to rely on its backup running back options. However, it will be tough to replace what Noel brings to the team as he is a dynamic force, providing the Tigers with explosive running ability.
He is excellent at getting small yardage when necessary but is also capable of long runs. This was on full display when he had a 64-yard run against Vanderbilt on Sept. 21 in a 30-27 win.
