James Franklin injury update: Missouri QB ready to start again

Junior quarterback James Franklin said Saturday that he should be ready to start on the road next week against the Florida Gators. The Missouri Tigers' leader jumped into action in the third quarter of a 33-10 victory against the Kentucky Wildcats on Saturday and played cautiously because of a prior left knee strain.

Per the postgame transcript:

"(I'm) Like 90 percent. I'm pretty sure, unless I get hit by a car or something, that I'll be starting next week."

Franklin acknowledged that he was sore and thinking about his knee while finishing off the Wildcats on Saturday. Head coach Gary Pinkel didn't put Franklin in position to get hit, giving him quick throws while often running the ball. The quarterback added that he felt good running north and south.

Franklin went 6-of-9 for 16 yards in the win, and the Tigers calmed down with his presence. Missouri rolled to the 23-point win despite Franklin entering with the Tigers holding a slim 17-10 advantage.

Missouri will need sound quarterback play Saturday against a No. 7 Gators team looking to bounce back strong after suffering their first loss of the season to the Georgia Bulldogs.