Missouri QB Brady Cook, RB Nate Noel doubtful for Alabama game

Alabama football’s Saturday opponent might not be at full strength when it visits Bryant-Denny Stadium. According to the first SEC availability report of the week, released Wednesday evening, Missouri will likely be without its quarterback and leading rusher.

Brady Cook was listed as doubtful on Wednesday. He injured his ankle against Auburn last week, necessitating a trip to a nearby hospital for an MRI before he returned to lead a comeback victory.

Drew Pyne is Missouri’s backup quarterback.

Running back Nate Noel is listed as doubtful on the report. He leads the Tigers with 503 yards rushing so far this season, with two touchdowns.

Reports initially emerged early on Wednesday that Noel would miss Saturday’s game. However, the doubtful designation means a final decision has not yet been made, though it’s unlikely he’ll be on the field.

Noel transferred to Missouri this season from Appalachian State. He splits carries with Marcus Carroll for the Tigers this season, after last year’s leading rusher, Cody Schrader exhausted his eligibility.

Tigers reported as out include defensive ends Darris Smith and Joe Moore, quarterback Sam Horn and linebacker Khalil Jacobs. Wideout Mookie Cooper is also listed as doubtful.

Safeties Sidney Williams, Tre’Vez Johnson, Daylan Carnell and Joseph Charleston are questionable, along with offensive lineman Cayden Green and tight end Brett Norfleet. Wide receiver Marquis Johnson is probable.

SEC teams are required to release availability reports the week of conference games beginning in the 2024 season. The reports are released daily beginning on Wednesday of league game weeks, and final designations are reported 90 minutes before kickoff.

Alabama and Missouri are scheduled to kick off at 2:45 p.m. CT Saturday in Tuscaloosa. The game will be aired on ABC.