Missouri star running back Ahmad Hardy is set to make his 2026 season debut on Saturday against Arkansas after recovering from a gunshot wound suffered in May, sources confirmed to CBS Sports.
Hardy's Return
Hardy was shot while attending a concert in Mississippi, sidelining him for the Tigers' first seven games. He returned to practice this week, and his absence from the SEC availability report Wednesday indicated he would play.
Backfield Duo
The return provides a major boost for Missouri's offense. In 2025, Hardy ranked second nationally and first among Power Four running backs with 1,649 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns. In Hardy's absence, Jamal Roberts emerged as the lead back, ranking eighth nationally with 867 rushing yards and tied for 11th with eight touchdowns. With both backs healthy, Missouri could field one of the nation's most potent backfield duos. The Tigers' rushing attack has averaged 161.3 yards per game this season, ninth in the SEC, but with Hardy leading the way in 2025 the team ranked 22nd in EPA per rush and sixth in yards per rush. This year those numbers have dropped to 121st and 74th respectively.
Tough November Schedule
The tandem could keep both players fresh for a challenging November stretch that includes games against Texas, Georgia, and Kentucky. Combined with a passing game thriving under quarterback Austin Simmons, Missouri becomes a dangerous opponent.
