(AP) -- Missouri is a three-touchdown underdog on Saturday against top-ranked Alabama.
Missouri's starting quarterback is out, the offensive line is in tatters and the opponent hasn't shown many flaws so far in gunning for a second consecutive national championship.
The scenario is dismal for the Tigers (3-3, 0-3 SEC), who are still seeking their first Southeastern Conference victory.
Alabama (5-0, 2-0) has won eight in a row by 19 or more points, and it's been five years since its last loss to an unranked opponent.
Plus, the Crimson Tide players had a week off to rest up.
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