Hardy Returns From Gunshot Wound For Missouri Against Arkansas
Missouri running back Ahmad Hardy will play his first game of the season on Saturday against Arkansas, according to an ESPN report. Hardy's availability had been in question since he suffered a gunshot wound during the offseason, but the Tigers confirmed Thursday that he is ready to return to the field.
Hardy is not expected to start against the Razorbacks. Jamal Roberts will retain the starting role, with Hardy worked back into the offense gradually and expected to see a limited number of carries. The arrangement gives Missouri two proven backs in its backfield, one of the stronger rushing tandems in college football this season. bet bkfc
Hardy transferred to Missouri from UL Monroe in 2024 and adjusted quickly to SEC competition. Last season he carried the ball 256 times for 1,649 yards, an average of 6.4 yards per carry, and scored 16 touchdowns. His performance included a 300-yard, three-touchdown outing in a 49-27 win over Mississippi State. The production established him as one of the top running backs in the country and a name tracked for the 2027 NFL Draft.
Hardy has not said whether he will enter the draft or return to Missouri for another season. He has two years of eligibility remaining, giving him time to weigh his options as he works his way back from injury. His season debut Saturday marks the first step in that process, with his workload likely to expand in the weeks ahead as he returns to full strength.
