Hansbrough has 55-yard TD in Missouri scrimmage

COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — Russell Hansbrough had a 55-yard scoring run against the second-team defense at a scrimmage that wrapped up Missouri’s training camp.

Temperatures in the 90s with high humidity Thursday added to the challenge for the 24th-ranked Tigers, seeking a follow-up to a 12-win season.

“It was great being out in this heat,” coach Gary Pinkel said. “It’s real important to be out in stuff.”

Running backs combined for 208 yards on 23 carries and two touchdowns. Marcus Murphy, who started at wide receiver, had 54 yards on five carries. Freshman Trevon Walters had a 1-yard TD run and Ish Witters had 67 yards on seven carries.

Hansbrough, a junior who replaces Henry Josey as the starter, had the lone TD by the first-team offense.

Quarterback Maty Mauk was just 4 for 11 for 28 yards and lost a fumble returned for a touchdown by linebacker Eric Beisel. Tackle Harold Brantley had two sacks.

“Today we felt like we were moving the ball pretty fast, definitely with our run game,” guard Anthony Gatti said. “Little bit of trouble in the pass game, but you know, the running game really stepped up and that was key.”

Jimmie Hunt, one of the top returning wide receivers, missed the scrimmage with a hamstring injury.

Starters generally played sparingly and Pinkel said both sides of the ball need improvement.

“I just think we need more consistency as a team,” Pinkel said. “It’s not about being perfect, but it’s about being a consistent player so that we become a consistent offense and a consistent defense. They got the message and I think they understand it.”

Andrew Baggett was 3 for 3 on field goal attempts.

“We want six, not three,” Mauk said. “That’s going to be our main focus this week, just being consistent.”

Missouri opens at home Aug. 30 against South Dakota State. During the scrimmage, construction crews worked on multi-million dollar stadium improvements.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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