Embattled North Carolina faces Missouri in Independence Bowl

SHREVEPORT, La. – Big changes are coming for the football programs at Missouri and North Carolina. Before they happen, there’s one more football game to play.

The Tigers and Tar Heels meet today in the Independence Bowl, and both teams have become quite experienced at juggling questions about their long-term future with the upcoming matchup. Players and coaches are adamant the focus will be squarely on the field.

“We’re expecting to play our best game,” Missouri coach Gary Pinkel said. “And we expect North Carolina to play their best game.”

Not that there aren’t reasons to be distracted. North Carolina (7-5) is in the midst of a coaching change, while Missouri (7-5) is preparing for its move to the Southeastern Conference after an acrimonious exit from the Big 12.

The Tar Heels announced the hiring of Southern Mississippi coach Larry Fedora last week. Interim coach Everett Withers is headed to Ohio State, where he’ll be the defensive coordinator.

Coaching stability isn’t a problem at Missouri (7-5), where Pinkel is wrapping up his 11th season with a program-record seventh consecutive bowl appearance. Instead, it’s the move to the SEC that’s the constant topic of conversation.

“There’s no question about it — this is historically a big moment with us playing our last game in the Big 12,” Pinkel said. “This game is important for many reasons, but it will be remembered specifically for that reason.”