Depth chart changes, injury updates on Monday for Mizzou

Gary Pinkel's Monday press conference brought a good deal of injury news and depth chart updates for the Missouri Tigers.

The biggest news surrounds running back Russell Hansbrough. He will not suit up versus Connecticut this upcoming weekend. His absence comes on the heels of the Arkansas State game in which Hansbrough managed 15 yards on five carries. It was clearly evident that he wasn't able to push off of the sore ankle, nor was he effective in making any cuts laterally.

Missouri can only hope its star running back will get healthy in time for conference play. At the risk of sounding redundant, he's an integral member of the offense. 

As a result, Ish Witter will resume the role as the starter. Tyler Hunt and Morgan Steward will play behind Witter in a reserve capacity. 

Another interesting note is Taylor Chappell getting the call over Alec Abeln at left guard. The senior from Texas had been beaten out for the starting job in fall camp by Abeln, and was providing cover at multiple spots within the second unit.

With the running backs struggling to pick up yardage at a good clip, Pinkel opted to make a change. The Tigers are rushing at a 3.4 yards-per-carry clip through the first two contests.