Missouri suspends defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson

• Richardson will not play against Syracuse on Saturday
• The junior is tied for the team lead with 70 tackles
• The Tigers need one more win be eligible for a bowl game

Missouri will likely be without one of its top players Saturday when it has its best chance to qualify for a bowl game.

Defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson is expected to miss the game for a violation of team rules, the Columbia Tribune Review reported.

The school has not confirmed any punishment for Richardson.

Richardson is tied for the team lead with 70 tackles and second with 4½ sacks. The junior is projected by ESPN's Mel Kiper to be a first-round pick if he enters the draft.

Fresh off an overtime win at Tennessee, Missouri (5-5) faces Syracuse at home and then travels to No. 10 Texas A&M. That makes this week's game against the Orange vital for them reach six wins and become bowl eligible.