Missouri QB James Franklin Will Not Play vs. ASU

The lead up to tonight's game between Arizona State and Missouri was shaken to its core yesterday when word emerged that Tigers' star quarterback James Franklin was now a "game-time decision" due to a shoulder injury.

Despite taking warm-ups with the team, Franklin will not play, as head coach Gary Pinkel told ESPN's Shelly Smith before kickoff. This deals a major hit to the Missouri offense, and a gives ASU's chances at a 3-0 start a big life.

Starting in his place will be redshirt freshman Corbin Berkstresser, a 6-foot-3, 230 pounder.

Berkstresser was a highly touted recruit in the 2011 class, and saw action in Missouri's season opening win over Southeastern Louisiana, throwing a touchdown and running for another in the 62-10 win. Unlike Franklin, Berkstresser is not much of a running threat, and is a more traditional pocket passer.

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