With a depleted receiver corps and a rebuilt offensive line, Missouri helped turn the Gamecocks into a defensive juggernaut for the bulk of Saturday’s game. Ranked among the nation’s worst defenses in several categories, especially against the pass, South Carolina held Mauk to 62 passing yards until the two late TD drives. The 41-yarder to Sasser broke up a stretch of just four completions on 21 attempts for 14 yards.

“I think he stayed positive,” Pinkel said of Mauk. “I really think he did. He understands leadership-wise … we’ve trained him. (Teammates) look at him all the time. He can’t look frustrated or disappointed. If he does he’s got to flip the switch back on and still be positive.”

“It was hard, but I’m a guy that’s not going to let that show,” Mauk said. “I know everybody’s looking at me. If I’m down the whole offense is going to have their heads down, too.”

Mizzou’s night was shaping up to be its most feeble offensive showing since a 129-yard effort against No. 1 Alabama in a 42-10 loss two years ago.