COLUMBIA, Mo. - The University of Missouri Board of Curators has approved a contract extension for head football coach Eli Drinkwitz through the 2028 season, announced Director of Athletics Desireé Reed-Francois. This decision comes in the wake of an impressive 2023 season for Drinkwitz, where he was named the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Coach of the Year.

Under Drinkwitz's leadership, the University of Missouri Tigers finished the 2023 season with a remarkable 11-2 record, culminating in a thrilling 14-3 victory over Ohio State in the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic. This victory marked the program's first appearance in a New Year's Six bowl game during the College Football Playoff era, solidifying their dominance on the field.

Drinkwitz expressed his gratitude to the Board of Curators, President Choi, and Desireé Reed-Francois for their belief in him as the head coach. He credited the collective effort of the players, coaches, and staff in building a championship program and acknowledged the unwavering support of the fan base, alumni, and donors.

The extension of Drinkwitz's contract is a testament to his accomplishments, including being named the SEC Coach of the Year by both league coaches and the Associated Press. He was also recognized as the American Football Coaches Association Region 2 Coach of the Year. Notably, Drinkwitz is the first Mizzou coach to receive the SEC Coaches' honor since Gary Pinkel in 2014.

During his four seasons at Mizzou, Drinkwitz has led his teams to clinch bowl eligibility each year. His 28 wins in the first four seasons are the most for a Mizzou head coach since Warren Powers from 1978-81. Furthermore, his 17 victories in the Southeastern Conference play are the most for a Mizzou head coach in the first four seasons since Dan Devine from 1958-61.

Chair of the UM Board of Curators, Michael Williams, commended Coach Drinkwitz for his contribution to the university, stating that Mizzou Football program's success is vital to the state, the university, and the Department of Athletics. The Board of Curators recognized Drinkwitz's achievements and is excited to witness his continued development of the program.

Drinkwitz's influence extends beyond the field, as demonstrated by his success in recruiting top talent. His recently signed 2024 recruiting class includes the commitment of the state's top-ranked player, Williams Nwaneri, a five-star defensive lineman. This marks the third Top 25 recruiting class secured by Drinkwitz in the last four years, highlighting his ability to attract talented prospects to Mizzou.

University of Missouri President Mun Choi expressed his commitment to sustain the success of Mizzou Football and Mizzou Athletics on a national level. Choi acknowledged the excellence exhibited by Drinkwitz and the athletics department, particularly through their impressive 2023 season and the consequential Cotton Bowl victory. He emphasized the university's investment in the future of Mizzou Football and Athletics, recognizing its significance for the state and its residents.

Under Drinkwitz's guidance, Mizzou has produced exceptional individual performances, including running back Schrader, who became the SEC's rushing leader in 2023 and broke Mizzou's single-season rushing record with 1,627 yards. Quarterback Burden also had a remarkable season, throwing for 21 touchdowns and 3,317 yards.

Off the field, the Mizzou football program excelled academically, with six student-athletes boasting perfect 4.0 GPAs during the Fall semester. In total, 35 football student-athletes achieved GPAs of 3.5 or higher, emphasizing the program's commitment to academic success.

The support from fans has been outstanding, with Mizzou leading the SEC in attendance growth for the second consecutive season, selling out the final five home games of the year and the entire Cotton Bowl ticket allotment of 13,000 tickets in just 18 hours.

With a contract extension in place, Coach Drinkwitz is poised to build on the success achieved in the 2023 season and continue to elevate Mizzou Football's standard of excellence. Fans eagerly anticipate the 2024 season opener against the Murray State Racers on August 31.

To reserve season tickets for 2024, fans are encouraged to visit MUTigers.com/FBTix. Stay updated on all things Mizzou Football by following Missouri football (@MizzouFootball) and Coach Drinkwitz (@CoachDrinkwitz) on social media platforms.