Once upon a time, this projected as a mighty clash for North supremacy and national picture possibilities.

Now, in some respects, the stakes resemble so many Missouri-Kansas games of the past, with little more than bragging rights on the line.

Oh, sure, Mizzou can enhance it’s bowl appeal and gain momentum for the Big 12 championship game next week, back at Arrowhead Stadium.

But the Tigers have already clinched a title-game berth, winning what turned out to be a weak North, although in disappointing fashion, if that’s possible, due to back-to-back losses to South squads Oklahoma State and Texas that hushed big-stage contender claims.

The Jayhawks have wilted down the stretch, losing four of five, most of those embarrassingly. And after a 5-1 start, a loss to Mizzou would leave them at 6-6.

So as the two prepare to meet, at least there’s the Border War emotions, with Arrowhead Stadium providing a neutral site battleground for a century-plus of hatred.

The Border War enters its 117th year, making it the second-longest rivalry in the country. Only Minnesota and Wisconsin — at 118 years — have been at it longer.

“It’s an important one for a lot of people in the state,” said KU quarterback Todd Reesing. “A lot of the fans think any time you can get a win over Missouri, it makes the season a good one, whether it’s your first one or your 10th. So it’s a big game for a lot of people.”

Same goes across the border.

“Right when you step on campus, when they’re recruiting you, they tell you, ‘They’re our rivals,’” said Tigers quarterback Chase Daniel. “A lot of guys are recruited by Kansas and Missouri, so it’s just a big rivalry.

“It’s one of the oldest in the nation and it’s one of the closest in the nation. It’s an exciting game around here.”

KU’s defense has been exposed of late, surrendering at least 35 points in each of the four losses. Teams like Oklahoma, Texas Tech and Texas made the Jayhawks look slow.

That could be bad news against a Missouri spread offense that features one of the nation’s fastest playmakers, Jeremy Maclin.

Notes:

Missouri agreed to a new deal with coach Gary Pinkel, who had been rumored for the vacancy at Washington. The contract is for seven years, with a guarantee of $2.3 million per year.

Mizzou is going for its third straight win over KU. The Jayhawks had beaten the Tigers three straight seasons before the current run.

KU wide receiver Kerry Meier has set a school record with 73 receptions this season. A quarterback convert, he’s the 13th Jayhawk to record at least 100 catches.

Player to Watch (Jayhawks) — Todd Reesing, QB

Due to KU’s defensive deficiencies, the pressure will be on Reesing to keep up with Daniel and the Tigers. He’s capable, ranking ninth nationally with 290.91 passing yards per game. He’ll need wideouts Meier and Dezmon Briscoe to have big days.

Player to Watch (Tigers) — Sean Weatherspoon, LB

Weatherspoon will keep a watchful eye on Reesing, who likes to scramble and throw on the run. The Tigers linebacker has 15 1/2 tackles for losses and 4 1/2 sacks, making him an ideal blitz candidate to put added heat on Reesing.

Missouri by 17