The Missouri Tigers kicked off their season with a commanding 51-0 victory over the Murray State Racers at Faurot Field on Thursday. The No. 11 team in the nation provided solid answers to any doubts or questions surrounding them heading into the season.
The Tigers showed reason for optimism as they head into Week 2. Armand Membou was instrumental in Nate Noel’s touchdown, with Theo Wease Jr. and Joshua Manning making significant blocks.
The defensive line had a strong showing, with Zion Young putting pressure on the Murray State right tackle, leading to Toriano Pride Jr.’s pick-six. There was significant rotation at defensive tackle, with Chris McCllelan, Maruis Gracial, Sam Williams, and Sterling Webb all getting a look alongside Kristian Williams in the first few drives. However, guard Cam’Ron Johnson was called for a false start, continuing a troubling trend after racking up 11 penalties last year.
Mizzou’s Week 1 dominance
Linebackers Khalil Jacobs and Corey Flagg Jr. demonstrated potential as replacements for Ty’Ron Hopper, effectively reading plays and sifting through the offense.
According to Pro Football Focus, quarterbacks Brady Cook and Drew Pyne were pressured on just four of their combined 44 drop backs, a solid showing from the offensive line. Cook went 0-for-4 on passes over 20 yards, all overthrows, a surprising area of disappointment for the third-year starter. Mehki Miller showed versatility, lining up in the slot 53.8% of the time and out wide for 46.2% of his snaps.
Logan Reichert took snaps at both guard positions, showcasing his versatility. Six different players registered one pressure each on defense: Eddie Kelly Jr., Khalil Jacobs, Chris McClellan, Joe Moore, Johnny Walker Jr., and Kristian Williams. Kicker Blake Craig had a perfect debut, going 3-for-3 on field goals and 6-for-6 on extra points.
With these insights, Missouri looks poised to continue their strong performance as they prepare for their Week 2 showdown against Buffalo.
- SI.”Final Notes and Numbers from Missouri’s Week 1 Win”.
- Rivals.”Missouri Tigers Football & Basketball Recruiting – Between the hashes: Revisiting Mizzou’s 51-0 win over Murray State”.
- RockMNation.”SBN Reacts: Win big. Play backups. Profit.”.