Baylor, MU both aim to stop their losing streaks today

COLUMBIA, Mo. -- A week after watching fellow Big 12 coach Terry Allen get fired for failing to turn around the Kansas program, Baylor coach Kevin Steele is hoping his bosses and Bears fans are a little more understanding.

It hasn't been easy for Steele. Baylor hasn't won a conference game since Oct. 10, 1998 -- a streak of 27. This season, the Bears won two non-conference games before losing six straight Big 12 games. They play at Missouri today.

"Rome wasn't built in a day," Steele said. "The Romans had more patience than Americans."

Steele hopes his team can focus on Missouri and not worry about their whole season.

"We'll have to focus on the little steps until we put it over the top," Steele said. "That's what we do. And I assure you, attitude is not a problem with this team at all."

The Tigers (3-5, 2-4) are also on a down streak, losing two straight. They need to sweep their final three games to keep alive slim hopes for a bowl.

Baylor has shown signs of progress. The Bears are ties for second in the nation with 14 fumble recoveries and defensive end A.C. Collier is fifth in the Big 12 with six sacks.

Baylor needs one win in its final three games -- against Missouri, Oklahoma State and Southern Illinois -- for its highest win total under Steele. If the Bears win all three, their 5-6 record will be their best since joining the Big 12.

Missouri coach Gary Pinkel said his team is in no danger of overlooking the Bears, even with two tough games to end the season against Kansas State and Michigan State.

"We don't have the right to overlook anyone," Pinkel said. "That's not a problem at all."

Both teams feature go-to wide receivers. Baylor has Reggie Newhouse, who has caught 36 catches for 407 yards and four touchdowns. He caught three passes and scored a touchdown in Missouri's 47-22 win over the Bears last season.

Justin Gage is Missouri's receiving threat. The junior has caught 52 passes for 603 yards. Against Baylor last season, Gage caught eight passes and scored twice.

"This is a very important game for both teams and for their seasons," Pinkel said. "We need to win a game, and so do they."