May 9, 2011

Redshirt freshman quarterback Tyler Gabbert will leave the Missouri football program to pursue “other playing opportunities,” according to a release from the Missouri athletic department.

Gabbert was a part of the 2010 recruiting class, following in the footsteps of his older brother and Missouri starting quarterback, Blaine Gabbert. He did not see the field in 2010. The younger Gabbert was expected to compete for the starting quarterback position in 2011, but now his future lies elsewhere outside Columbia.

“We wish Tyler the best and will do everything we can to assist him going forward,” coach Gary Pinkel said in the release. “He’s worked very hard in our program this past year, and we thank him for his efforts. Tyler is a high quality person and an outstanding football player.”

Gabbert’s departure essentially entrenches redshirt freshman James Franklin as the Missouri starting quarterback next season, ending any chance at a competition at the position next fall. Franklin saw action in ten games as Blaine Gabbert’s backup last season, throwing for 106 yards and a touchdown while running in two more for scores.

After Blaine announced his intentions to leave Missouri for the 2011 NFL Draft, the quarterback competition became the center of attention during the annual Black & Gold game. Tyler Gabbert was outplayed by his counterpart during the scrimmage. Gabbert finished 8 for 22 for 48 yards, while Franklin completed 13 of 21 passes for 116 yards and a touchdown.

With Gabbert’s departure, the Tigers are left with four quarterbacks on the roster, including Franklin, redshirt sophomores Ashton Glaser and Ryan Howerton, and incoming freshman Corbin Berkstresser.

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