#18 Mizzou (10-7) vs #19 West Virginia (9-3)
Where to Watch: Friday, Feb 6th on ESPN+ at 6PM CT
The Tigers are looking to keep their dual streak going on the road against a ranked West Virginia team. Both teams have a number of highly ranked wrestlers, with some spots for bonus points each in what could be a tight dual. The Mountaineers have former Big 12 champs at 125 and 157 along with young standouts at 133 and 197. There are potential bounce back spots for Missouri at 141 and 149 with some premier ranked matches at 125, 133, and 174. With just three duals left on the season the regular season is drawing to a close and matches like these get that much bigger for seeding at conferences and NCAA’s.
125lbs: #22 Mack Mauger (17-9) vs #8 Jett Strickenberger (13-3)
Mauger gets returning All-American and Big 12 champ Strickenberger who continues to be a podium threat this year. Strickenberger has had weight issues in the past but has looked good as of late, having won his past four matches and a CKLV title this season. He’s huge for the weight and very lanky, making him tough on top and tough to finish on.
If Mauger keeps his handfighting and positioning up he could slow and wear Strickenberger down. He has struggled against lankier wrestlers with sweep singles, which Strickenberger could find success with. Taking bottom comes with a good bit of risk as well, especially being a position he has struggled with. If Mauger can keep things close and keep Strickenberger working in handfights and scrambles while limiting scores I could see him stealing this match. However with his pedigree and style matchup I’m taking Strickenberger in a match he could push for bonus points.
