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Missouri coaches made sure Mauk knew Franklin could have played vs. Tennessee

Associated Press
Published | Updated

Missouri quarterback Maty Mauk, left, scrambles away from Tennessee defensive lineman Jacques Smith (55) during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 2, 2013, in Columbia, Mo. (AP Photo/L.G. Patterson) (The Associated Press)

Missouri head coach Gary Pinkel yells on the sidelines during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Tennessee, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2013, in Columbia, Mo. (AP Photo/L.G. Patterson) (The Associated Press)

Missouri quarterback James Franklin looked good in pre-game drills and could be back from a shoulder injury next week. Coaches used that to prod backup Maty Mauk against Tennessee.

The redshirt freshman made his third start in place of Franklin, and it was his best by far. Coach Gary Pinkel said Mauk was told he was on a short leash.

Mauk emulated Franklin with his legs, rushing for 113 yards on 14 carries. He was on-target with his arm, too, throwing three touchdown passes in the first half to key a 31-3 rout Saturday night.

Missouri (8-1, 4-1 SEC) moved up one spot to No. 9 Sunday. The Tigers play at Kentucky next week.