JEFFERSON CITY _ Following is a statement from U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-3) on the Missouri Tigers’ SEC Championship loss to the Auburn Tigers today in Atlanta:

 “Today, the Missouri Tigers lived up to being from the Show-Me State by showing the nation they are a team with a bright future after giving it their all against the Auburn Tigers. By winning the SEC Eastern Division in only their second year in the league, these Tigers have represented themselves, their school and their state with dignity and humility. I also would like to thank Coach Pinkel and his entire coaching staff for leading this team of young men to the championship game and I look forward to seeing what more they can accomplish in their yet-to-be determined bowl game. I would also like to congratulate the Auburn Tigers for their victory today as they prepare to represent the SEC in their final game of the season.”