Maty Mauk Vs. James Franklin: Who Should Start?

Nov 9, 2013; Lexington, KY, USA; Missouri Tigers quarterback Maty Mauk (7) passes the ball against the Kentucky Wildcats at Commonwealth Stadium. Missouri defeated Kentucky 47-17. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports

The Missouri Tigers dropped from 8th to 9th in the BCS standings on Sunday. However, the 2 (most likely 3) biggest games for the Tigers begin next Saturday in Oxford, MS against the Ole Miss Rebels. The problem, if it is actually one, is that James Franklin will be available to start next Saturday. So the debate in Columbia is:

Who should start? James Franklin or Maty Mauk?

The Case for Maty Mauk

He is the hot hand for the Tigers. He wasn’t the reason the Tigers lost the game to South Carolina. He has been an absolute stud for the Tigers and he is the future for this team. Giving him the ball will continue his growth as a quarterback and give him experience he can’t learn in Spring football.

The Case for James Franklin

He is a senior leader. He was the starter before the injury. A player shouldn’t lose his starting job because of an injury he couldn’t prevent. James Franklin is also a fantastic running quarterback who makes plays with his feet. His ability to run will open up running lanes for Henry Josey and Russell Hansbrough .

So who should start? 

At the end of the day, you have to go the senior leader and put the game and season in his hands. James Franklin earned that spot in the offseason and he has had a fantastic season. However, any struggle by Franklin and Mauk should be substituted immediately. This could be a special season for the Missouri Tigers. These seasons don’t come around often and success next year isn’t guaranteed. You have to take the bull by the horns and capture greatness. James Franklin gives you that chance with his play this year.

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