The University of Missouri has decided not to ask the NCAA for permission to play in a bowl game.
In a statement released Monday afternoon, Athletic Director Mack Rhoades said, “After careful consideration, we have decided it is not in the best interest of our football program to seek permission from the NCAA to participate in a bowl game.”
Mizzou lost to Arkansas 28-3 Friday in Fayetteville, Ark. to finish the season at 5-7.
Before Monday’s announcement, ESPN’s Mark Schlabach predicted the Tigers would play Louisiana Tech in the Heart of Dallas Bowl.
ESPN’s Brett McMurphy and Jerry Palm from CBS Sportsprojected MU would play Duke in the Independence Bowl.
RELATED| Missouri coach Gary Pinkel tearfully talks about leaving
The loss to Arkansas was the last game on the sidelines for longtime Tiger coach Gary Pinkel.
Pinkel announced his resignation November 13. He’s leaving the program to focus on his battle with non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Rhoades says Mizzou wants to stay focused on replacing Pinkel.
“Our focus remains on identifying the right leader for our program and moving forward with the transition process.”
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