Editorial: Daniel's dreams crushed early

Missouri says a painful farewell to the perfect season.

Published May 7, 2009

This was supposed to be the year for senior quarterback Chase Daniel. One season removed from being a finalist for the Heisman Trophy, Daniel was back for his senior year in search of the ultimate honor in the world of football.

Five games into the campaign, it seemed Daniel was well on his way to being a Heisman frontrunner. He appeared unstoppable for the first part of the year and helped Missouri climb to No. 3 in the Associated Press national rankings.

Then the Oklahoma State Cowboys came to town.

In a tight game throughout, three second-half interceptions off Daniel helped Oklahoma State earn the 28-23 win.

Bye bye perfect season. Bye bye Heisman.

Despite a Big 12 North title and a win in the Alamo Bowl, the season didn't feel the same after that loss.

As for Daniel, he finished well out of the Heisman race as another Big 12 quarterback received the honor - Oklahoma sophomore Sam Bradford.