Injury Update: Will Missouri State QB Jacob Clark Play vs Middle Tennessee State?

Missouri State quarterback Jacob Clark is officially listed as “day-to-day” with a knee injury ahead of Wednesday night’s nationally televised matchup against Middle Tennessee State. The graduate signal-caller was hurt late in the second quarter of the Bears’ game against Western Kentucky and did not return.

Clark had been effective before the injury, completing 8 of 15 passes for 143 yards. He left the field on crutches and wore a leg brace, sparking concerns that his season might be over. Fans were especially worried because Clark lost most of the 2023 season to a shoulder injury.

Clark’s Recovery and Game-Time Decision

Head coach Ryan Beard told reporters Friday that the knee injury is considered “day-to-day” and confirmed there’s a slight chance Clark could play against Middle Tennessee State. Beard stopped short of revealing whether there is ligament damage but said team doctors are optimistic about his recovery.

“We’re working with our team doctors to figure out the best way forward,” Beard said. “He’s been at practice helping teammates and doing what he can. When he’s ready, he will be in the game.”

Beard added that the decision on Clark’s status will be made just before kickoff. The team has created two offensive game plans — one built around Clark’s traditional pocket passing and another tailored to freshman quarterback Deuce Bailey, who took over after Clark exited the Western Kentucky game.

Impact on Missouri State’s Offense vs. MTSU

Freshman Deuce Bailey is expected to start if Clark can’t play. Bailey, known for his mobility and play-action ability, was chosen over sophomore Cole Feuerbacher, who entered the season as QB2. Beard said Bailey earned the nod with his performance and work ethic during training camp.

“We’ll have a version for Deuce and a traditional version with Jacob,” Beard explained. “With both quarterbacks, we can run different looks and even create trick-play packages to keep defenses off balance.”

This flexibility could prove valuable in a high-profile matchup. Missouri State is set to face Middle Tennessee State on ESPN2 — the program’s first-ever game on the channel — with kickoff scheduled for 6:30 PM ET Wednesday. If Clark returns, the Bears gain an experienced passer and leader. If not, Bailey’s dynamic play could energize the offense but bring expected growing pains.

All eyes will be on warmups Wednesday to see if Jacob Clark suits up. His availability could shape the Bears’ game plan and their push to stay competitive in conference play.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Will Jacob Clark play against Middle Tennessee State?

Coach Ryan Beard says Clark is day-to-day with a knee injury. His status will be decided at game time.

Q2: Who will start if Jacob Clark is unavailable?

Freshman Deuce Bailey is expected to start if Clark isn’t cleared.

Q3: How was Jacob Clark injured?

He suffered a knee injury after a late hit out of bounds late in the second quarter against Western Kentucky.

Q4: Has Jacob Clark dealt with injuries before?

Yes. Clark missed most of the 2023 season with a shoulder injury.

Q5: What time does the Missouri State vs Middle Tennessee State game start?

Kickoff is Wednesday at 6:30 PM ET on ESPN2.