Missouri is getting bad news at one of the worst possible times.
According to a release from the school, Travis Ruth, a projected starter along the offensive line, tore his left triceps tendon and will undergo surgery Thursday. Additionally, redshirt freshman Taylor Chappell tore the ACL in his left knee and will also undergo surgery in the near future.
While the release did not say the two linemen were done for the year, there is no timetable for their return. Ruth had seven starts at center in 2011 and was expected to start at left guard this year. Chappell entered preseason practices as the team’s backup right tackle, but was taking most of the first-string snaps because starter Justin Britt has been out with a foot injury.
Quarterback James Franklin appears ready to go after offseason shoulder surgery, but given the hits along the offensive line, protecting Franklin could still be a concern for coach Gary Pinkel (pictured).