Missouri
Missouri's death row had nearly 100 inmates in the 1990s. Now, it has eight
ST. LOUIS — Missouri ‘s status as one of the most active death penalty states is about to change for one simple reason: The state is running out of inmates to execute.
The lethal injection of Christopher Collings on Dec. 3 left just eight men on death row — a figurative term since condemned Missouri inmates are housed with other prisoners. By contrast, nearly 100 people were living with a death sentence three decades ago.
Three of the eight Missouri inmates will almost certainly live out their lives in prison after being declared mentally incompetent for execution. Court appeals continue for the other five, and no new executions are scheduled.
Missouri isn’t alone. Across the nation, the number of people awaiting the ultimate punishment has declined sharply since the turn of the century.
“We are in a very, very different place than we were 25 years ago ,and that’s for very good reasons,” said Robin Maher, executive director of the Death Penalty Information Center, a nonprofit that doesn’t take a position on the death penalty but is critical of problems in its application.
The Legal Defense Fund’s Death Row USA report showed 2,180 people with pending death sentences this year, down from 3,682 in 2000. Missouri’s peak year was 1997, when 96 people were on death row.
After reaching a height of 98 U.S. executions in 1999, the annual number hasn’t topped 30 since 2014. So far this year, 23 executions have been carried out — six in Alabama, five in Texas, four in Missouri, three in Oklahoma, two in South Carolina and one each in Georgia, Utah and Florida. Two more are scheduled: Wednesday in Indiana and Thursday in Oklahoma.
Use of the death penalty has declined in part because many states have turned away from it. Twenty-three states and the District of Columbia have abolished the punishment, and five others have moratoriums.
Even in active death penalty states, prosecutors in murder cases are far more inclined to seek life in prison without parole.
In the 1990s, the nation was typically seeing over 300 new death sentences each year. By contrast, 21 people were sentenced to death nationwide in 2023.
A major factor is the cost. At trial, additional experts are often brought in, cases tend to run longer, and a separate hearing is required in the penalty phase, Maher said.
Costs don’t end with the prosecution. Court appeals often drag on for decades, running up huge legal bills incurred by public entities — prosecutors, attorneys general, public defenders. Sixteen of this year’s 23 executions involved inmates incarcerated 20 years or more.
“Millions and millions of dollars are being used — those are taxpayer dollars — for a system that by and large the American public has concluded is not keeping them safer,” Maher said.
Court rulings have resulted in fewer death sentences, too, including Supreme Court decisions barring execution of the mentally disabled and those who were minors at the time of their crimes, Maher said.
Views of capital punishment also have changed. A Gallup poll last year found 50% of Americans believed capital punishment was applied unfairly, compared to 47% who believed it was fairly implemented. This was the highest such number since Gallup first began asking about the fairness of the death penalty’s application in 2000.
Still, there are indications of new support for the death penalty in some places.
Two executions in South Carolina were the first in that state since 2011. Utah carried out its first execution in 14 years. Idaho tried to execute Thomas Eugene Creech in February — the state’s first since 2012 — but corrections department workers couldn’t find a viable vein to deliver the lethal drug. The execution in Indiana this week would be the first in 15 years.
Meanwhile, incoming President Donald Trump, who restarted federal executions, with 13 carried out in his first term, has suggested he’ll use the death penalty again.
“If President Trump and other elected officials are paying attention to what public support is telling them, they will be more reluctant to use the death penalty going forward,” Maher said.
Some of the most aggressive prosecutors pursuing the death penalty are in California, even though Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom placed a moratorium on its use.
San Bernardino County District Attorney Jason Anderson’s office has successfully prosecuted four death penalty cases since he took office six years ago, including one last week: Jerome Rogers was sentenced to death for robbing and killing two elderly women.
Anderson said some crimes are so heinous that the death penalty “is appropriate to pursue.”
“When you sit in a courtroom and you see the anguish of the victim’s surviving family members, they certainly aren’t concerned about their tax dollars going to pursue what we think is a different level of evil in a death penalty case,” Anderson said.
He noted that the four death penalty cases he prosecuted involved the killings of a combined 12 victims.
“How do you put a price tag on 12 dead people?” Anderson asked.
FRISCO, TX — Missouri State football ended a historic season, in which it qualified for a bowl game in its first season as an FBS program, with a loss in the Xbox Bowl.
The Bears made a late push, but came up short in a 34-28 loss to Arkansas State on Thursday, Dec. 18, in the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas.
Thus ends one of the best years in Bears football history, their first in Conference USA, where they went 7-6 and had their first six wins over FBS programs since 1990. Mo State won five one-score games, while reaching feats that were once thought impossible for a once-disastrous program.
Thursday night marked the end of the six-year Petrino family era for Missouri State, as news broke earlier in the day that the school was finalizing the hire of SMU offensive coordinator Casey Woods as its next head coach. Woods will replace Ryan Beard, who didn’t coach in the Xbox Bowl after accepting the head coaching position at Coastal Carolina. Woods’ hiring is expected to be announced on Dec. 19.
The Springfield News-Leader is bringing you live updates from Frisco, Texas. Follow for live updates.
Watch Missouri State vs Arkansas State on ESPN+
Missouri State vs Arkansas State in Xbox Bowl live score
This section will be updated throughout the game
| Team | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | F |
| Arkansas State | 14 | 10 | 7 | 3 | 34 |
| Missouri State | 7 | 0 | 0 | 21 | 28 |
Final — Arkansas State 34, Missouri State 28
Jacob Clark to Jmariyae Robinson for a touchdown
Clark to Robinson for a 16-yard score with 1:54 left. Bears have to get the onside kick.
Missouri State has first-and-goal at the 16
A 59-yard pass to Dash Luke has the Bears in position to strike at the two-minute warning. Bears at the ASU 16.
Arkansas State misses field goal
The Bears have a pulse again? MSU ball at its 20 with 3:20 left.
Missouri State muffs punt when it just got a pulse
Dash Luke muffs a punt with 3:50 left, and the Red Wolves recover. Dang.
Jacob Clark throws pretty TD to Dash Luke
A dime down the middle of the field to Dash Luke goes for a 47-yard touchdown. Luke has 110 yards and two touchdowns on six receptions. Clark is up to 23-31 for 274 yards and three scores. Two-point conversion ruled short.
Missouri State forces Arkansas State punt
Bears ball at their own 48.
Arkansas State recovers strip-sack
From the ASU 34, Clark is hit and he fumbles. Red Wolves ball with 9:01 left and this one is ovah.
Arkansas State knocks in field goal
A 32-yard field goal with 12:43 left extends the Red Wolves’ lead back up to three scores.
Jacob Clark hits Ramone Green for TD to open fourth quarter
A beautiful ball from Jacob Clark to Ramone Green for a 15-yard touchdown pass. Bears cut Arkansas State’s lead to 31-15 with 14:52 left in the game. The Bears go for two and get it. It’s suddenly a two-score game.
Missouri State in scoring position
The Bears are at the Red Wolves’ 15, facing third-and-11, to begin the fourth quarter.
Missouri State takes over at its own 10
This game is sloooooooow. Bears need to make this score respectable or something on this drive.
Devin Spencer runs for 25-yard touchdown
Arkansas State went 65 yards in less than two minutes. Devin Spencer runs in a touchdown from 25 yards out. Bears down 31-7 with 10:23 left in the third.
Arkansas State, Missouri State trade punts
Red Wolves ball at their own 35.
Arkansas State takes 24-7 lead into halftime
Jacob Clark is 13-16 for 115 yards and a touchdown, but he’s been sacked four times, and there have been a pair of untimely penalties. Red Wolves have eight tackles for a loss. Defense is struggling to get stops and has been giving up big plays, allowing four passes of 21 yards or more.
Missouri State, Arkansas State trade punts
Bears ball at their own 24 with 69 seconds left in the half.
Arkansas State back in the endzone
This game is in danger of getting away from the Bears. Jaylen Raynor hit Hunter Summers for a 39-yard diving completion. The Wolves score two plays later on a four-yard touchdown pass. It’s 24-7 Wolves with 6:14 left in the half.
Missouri State penalty, sack allowed kills another drive
Jacob Clark scrambled for 15, but it was called back because of a hold. He was sacked for the second time right after. Arkansas State returns the punt 35 yards to the MSU 44.
Arkansas State boots 54-yard field goal
The Bears kept the Wolves out of the endzone for the first time tonight, but Clune Van Andel boots a 54-yard field goal. Wolves up 17-7 with 12:40 left in the half.
Jacob Clark to Dash Luke for a Missouri State TD
Jacob Clark rolls out to his left, gets a corner to bite and throws a 39-yard touchdown pass to a wide-open Dash Luke to get the Bears on the board. Arkansas State up 14-7 with 17 seconds left in the quarter.
Arkansas State strikes with deep touchdown
A deep ball from Jaylen Raynor to Corey Rucker is perfect, and he goes 71 yards to the house. The Bears’ defense isn’t looking good. It’s 14-0 with 2:51 left in the first quarter.
Missouri State moved the ball, but Arkansas State got to Jacob Clark again
The Bears got to the Red Wolves’ 36, but were flagged for holding. Their drive stalls after Jacob Clark was sacked. Wolves ball at their five.
Arkansas State quickly drives down the field for a score
The Bears struggled to tackle, and the Red Wolves took advantage. They go 55 yards in five plays to take an early 7-0 lead just four minutes in.
Missouri State goes three-and-out to start the game
The pass rush is getting after Jacob Clark with his makeshift offensive line. They’re immediately forced to punt. Wolves ball at their 45.
Missouri State vs Arkansas State pregame notes
8:03 p.m. — Missouri State will receive the opening kick.
7:56 p.m. — Nick Petrino’s offensive line is expected to be pretty thin tonight. Cash Hudson is playing, despite it looking like he’s portal-bound. But they could be down a couple more with Ebubedike Nnabugwu and others expected to be out.
7:34 p.m. — Here’s your next Missouri State football coach, which I was able to confirm. SMU offensive coordinator Casey Woods will be announced as head coach on Friday morning after a Missouri State Board of Governors meeting.
7:29 p.m. — Hello, Springfield. Nice to talk to you again. What a moment for Missouri State as it participates in its first bowl game. The joy on the supporters’ faces has already made this a special night.
What time does Missouri State vs Arkansas State start?
- Date: Thursday, Dec. 18
- Time: 8 p.m. CT
- Location: Ford Center at The Star, Frisco, Texas
The Bears and Red Wolves are scheduled to kick off at 8 p.m. CT on Thursday, Dec. 18, from the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas.
What TV channel is Missouri State vs Arkansas State on today?
- TV channel: ESPN2
- Streaming: ESPN+
Missouri State will take on Arkansas State on ESPN2 with Jorge Sedano, Rodney McCloud and Victoria Arlen on the call. Streaming options for the game include ESPN+.
Watch Missouri State vs Arkansas State on ESPN+
Missouri State vs Arkansas State predictions in Xbox Bowl
- Wyatt Wheeler: Missouri State over Arkansas State
- Matt Hayes: Missouri State over Arkansas State
- Jordan Mendoza: Missouri State over Arkansas State
- Paul Meyerberg: Arkansas State over Missouri State
- Erick Smith: Arkansas State over Missouri State
- Eddie Timanus: Arkansas State over Missouri State
- Blake Toppmeyer: Missouri State over Arkansas State
Missouri State vs Arkansas State odds, spread for Xbox Bowl
Odds courtesy of BetMGM on the morning of Monday, Dec. 15
- Spread: Arkansas State -1 1/2
- Over/under: 56 1/2
- Moneyline: ARST -115, MOST -105
College Football Playoff schedule 2025-26
- First round: Dec. 19 and 20
- Quarterfinals: Dec. 31 and Jan. 2
- Semifinals: Jan. 8 and 9
- National championship: Jan. 19
Wyatt D. Wheeler covers Kansas State athletics for the USA TODAY Network and Topeka Capital-Journal. You can follow him on X at @WyattWheeler_, contact him at 417-371-6987 or email him at wwheeler@usatodayco.com
On Thursday, December 18, 2025, the momentum of BetMGM Sportsbook’s official launch in Missouri continues to build. As the legal sports betting era takes hold across the Show-Me State, new users can capitalize on BetMGM Missouri’s premier welcome promotion: the BetMGM bonus code CUSE unlocks a $1,500 First Bet Offer in MO, providing one of the most significant safety nets available in the national market.
This launch-specific offer represents a major deviation from the standard promotions typically found in established markets. By activating the BetMGM bonus code CUSE today, Missouri bettors secure insurance on their very first wager, allowing them to explore the platform’s extensive markets with peace of mind, as their initial bet will be refunded in bonus bets if it loses.
BetMGM Bonus Code CUSE Sets a High Bar for Missouri:
The timing of this rollout is perfect for local fans, as the St. Louis Blues continue their season and the NFL enters the critical Week 16 stretch. While some sportsbooks offer small, fixed-sum “bet and get” deals, the BetMGM Missouri structure is designed for a high-ceiling play. If your first bet up to $1,500 loses, BetMGM will refund your entire stake in bonus bets.
Key Deal Terms:
- Bonus Code: CUSE
- Offer (Missouri Only): $1,500 First Bet Offer (Stake refunded as bonus bets if you lose).
- Value Differential: Offers a significantly higher ceiling for first-time users compared to standard fixed-bonus deals.
- Launch Date: December 2025 (Live Now).
Thursday Night Football: Rams vs. Seahawks Matchup Details (NFL Week 16):
The biggest stage for Missouri bettors tonight is Thursday Night Football, featuring a pivotal NFC West clash between the Los Angeles Rams and the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field.
Betting Odds:
- Spread: Seahawks -1.5
- Over/Under: 42.5
- Moneyline: Rams +110 | Seahawks -120
- All odds above subject to change.
Xbox Bowl: Missouri State vs. Arkansas State Matchup Details:
Adding to the excitement is the Xbox Bowl at the Ford Center at The Star. This game marks a historic milestone as the Missouri State Bears make their FBS bowl debut against the Arkansas State Red Wolves.
Betting Odds:
- Spread: Arkansas State -1
- Over/Under: 54.5
- Moneyline: Missouri State -104 | Arkansas State -105
- All odds above subject to change.
By using the BetMGM bonus code CUSE to wager on any of these markets—whether backing the Rams (+110) or taking the Bears (-104) in their bowl debut—your first bet is protected. If your pick hits, you keep the cash; if it falls short, your stake returns as bonus bets.
How to Activate the BetMGM Bonus Code CUSE:
- Sign Up: Click through to the BetMGM app or site and register your new account in Missouri.
- Enter Code: Ensure the BetMGM bonus code CUSE is entered in the designated field during registration.
- Deposit: Fund your account with a minimum deposit of $10.
- Place Your First Bet: Wager on any market, such as Rams vs. Seahawks or the Xbox Bowl.
- Get Your Bonus: If your first bet loses, BetMGM will refund your stake (up to $1,500) in bonus bets!
Conclusion: BetMGM Missouri Delivers a Premier Launch Offer!
The arrival of BetMGM in Missouri brings a top-tier betting experience to the state. By engaging the BetMGM bonus code CUSE during this launch week, sports fans can lock in a massive $1,500 safety net, ensuring the strongest possible start to the legal betting era in Missouri.
Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. See BetMGM.com for Terms. 21+ only. MO Only. New Customer Offer (If applicable). Subject to eligibility requirements. Bonus bets are non-withdrawable. Please gamble responsibly. Minimum $10 deposit required. Bonus bets expire in 7 days. One new player offer. Add’l terms.
If you or a loved one has questions or needs to talk to a professional about gambling, call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit 1800gambler.net for more information.
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The Missouri Lottery offers several draw games for those aiming to win big. Here’s a look at Dec. 17, 2025, results for each game:
Winning Powerball numbers from Dec. 17 drawing
25-33-53-62-66, Powerball: 17, Power Play: 4
Check Powerball payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Pick 3 numbers from Dec. 17 drawing
Midday: 7-2-7
Midday Wild: 0
Evening: 8-0-0
Evening Wild: 6
Check Pick 3 payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Pick 4 numbers from Dec. 17 drawing
Midday: 7-6-5-1
Midday Wild: 2
Evening: 0-1-5-9
Evening Wild: 4
Check Pick 4 payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Cash4Life numbers from Dec. 17 drawing
03-32-33-36-59, Cash Ball: 03
Check Cash4Life payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Cash Pop numbers from Dec. 17 drawing
Early Bird: 03
Morning: 08
Matinee: 15
Prime Time: 01
Night Owl: 09
Check Cash Pop payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Show Me Cash numbers from Dec. 17 drawing
06-07-09-13-15
Check Show Me Cash payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Powerball Double Play numbers from Dec. 17 drawing
24-43-65-66-68, Powerball: 03
Check Powerball Double Play payouts and previous drawings here.
Feeling lucky? Explore the latest lottery news & results
Are you a winner? Here’s how to claim your lottery prize
All Missouri Lottery retailers can redeem prizes up to $600. For prizes over $600, winners have the option to submit their claim by mail or in person at one of Missouri Lottery’s regional offices, by appointment only.
To claim by mail, complete a Missouri Lottery winner claim form, sign your winning ticket, and include a copy of your government-issued photo ID along with a completed IRS Form W-9. Ensure your name, address, telephone number and signature are on the back of your ticket. Claims should be mailed to:
Ticket Redemption
Missouri Lottery
P.O. Box 7777
Jefferson City, MO 65102-7777
For in-person claims, visit the Missouri Lottery Headquarters in Jefferson City or one of the regional offices in Kansas City, Springfield or St. Louis. Be sure to call ahead to verify hours and check if an appointment is required.
For additional instructions or to download the claim form, visit the Missouri Lottery prize claim page.
When are the Missouri Lottery drawings held?
- Powerball: 9:59 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
- Mega Millions: 10 p.m. Tuesday and Friday.
- Pick 3: 12:45 p.m. (Midday) and 8:59 p.m. (Evening) daily.
- Pick 4: 12:45 p.m. (Midday) and 8:59 p.m. (Evening) daily.
- Cash4Life: 8 p.m. daily.
- Cash Pop: 8 a.m. (Early Bird), 11 a.m. (Late Morning), 3 p.m. (Matinee), 7 p.m. (Prime Time) and 11 p.m. (Night Owl) daily.
- Show Me Cash: 8:59 p.m. daily.
- Lotto: 8:59 p.m. Wednesday and Saturday.
- Powerball Double Play: 9:59 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
This results page was generated automatically using information from TinBu and a template written and reviewed by a Missouri editor. You can send feedback using this form.
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