Nine players will share the role of captain when the Mizzou Tigers take the field for their home opener next week against Central Arkansas.

Head coach Eliah Drinkwitz made the announcement after the Tigers practiced Saturday, Aug. 16 at Lindenwood University in St Charles, simulating one of the four road trips they’ll make this season. Drinkwitz commended the strong leadership skills his squad has developed.

“I’ve never had that many [captains],” Drinkwitz said, “but, it’s one of those things where I knew this class had strong leadership and guys believed in them, so I’m excited about that.”

This year’s captains include both potential starting quarterbacks Sam Horn and Beau Pribula, along with offensive linemen Cayden Green and Connor Tollison. Defensive end Zion Young, linebacker Khalil Jacobs, and safeties Daylan Carnell and Jalen Catalon will also wear the C, while wide receiver Logan Muckey is the special teams representative. Drinkwitz says while he’s still evaluating whether Horn or Pribula will get the start for the season opener next week, he has a challenge for both of them.

“When one guy has a big day, the other one knows that they have to respond,” Drinkwitz said. “My challenge for them is to lead when you’re not the quarterback.  Don’t be in the back just watching the plays.  Go lead, go be on the sidelines, go provide energy, because that’s really the next step.  It’s who really rallies the team.”

Mizzou begin their season Aug. 28 when Central Arkansas visit Faurot Field. Pregame is at 4:30 p.m., with kickoff at 6:30 p.m., on KMMO AM 1300.