Rock M Nation - Missouri falls to Mississippi State, 31-13, on ESPNA Blog for Ol' Mizzouhttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/50319/rmn-fav.png2015-11-11T09:30:03-06:00http://www.rockmnation.com/rss/stream/94229592015-11-11T09:30:03-06:002015-11-11T09:30:03-06:00Progress? Yep. Too late? Probably.
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/WUEC6Uz5RcTelHTc4Sh0Hi-xtyg=/15x0:3143x2085/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47635161/Brothers-DF-MSU.0.0.JPG" />
<figcaption>Derrick Forsythe / Rock M Nation</figcaption>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">Mississippi State 31, Missouri 13</h3>
<p><i>Confused? <a href="http://www.footballstudyhall.com/2015/2/9/8001137/college-football-advanced-stats-glossary" target="_blank">Visit the Advanced Stats glossary here</a>.</i></p>
<table border="1">
<tbody>
<tr>
<th style="text-align: center;"><b>Basics</b></th> <th width="25%" style="text-align: center;"><b> Mississippi State </b></th> <th width="25%" style="text-align: center;"><b> Missouri </b></th> <th width="20%" style="text-align: center;"><b>Nat'l Avg</b></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Total Plays</td>
<td align="center">80</td>
<td align="center">71</td>
<td align="center"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Close Rate (non-garbage time)</td>
<td align="center" colspan="2">76.2%</td>
<td align="center"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Avg Starting FP</b></td>
<td align="center"><b> 36.0 </b></td>
<td align="center"><b> 27.9 </b></td>
<td align="center"><i><b> 29.7 </b></i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Possessions</td>
<td align="center">15</td>
<td align="center">14</td>
<td align="center"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Scoring Opportunities*<br>
</td>
<td align="center">7</td>
<td align="center">5</td>
<td align="center"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Points Per Opportunity</b></td>
<td align="center"><b> 4.43 </b></td>
<td align="center"><b> 2.60 </b></td>
<td align="center"><i><b> 4.75 </b></i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Leverage Rate**</td>
<td align="center">65.6%</td>
<td align="center">62.8%</td>
<td align="center"><i> 68.1% </i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Close S&P***</td>
<td align="center">0.589</td>
<td align="center">0.465</td>
<td align="center"><i> 0.586 </i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="4">
<i>* A scoring opportunity occurs when an offense gets a first down inside the opponent's 40 (or scores from outside the 40).<br>** Leverage Rate = Standard Downs / (Standard Downs + Passing Downs)<br></i><i>*** When using IsoPPP, the S&P formula is (0.8*Success Rate) + (0.2*IsoPPP)</i>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="4"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th style="text-align: center;"> <b>EqPts (</b><a href="http://www.footballoutsiders.com/info/glossary#eqpts" target="_blank">what's this?</a><b>)</b> </th> <th style="text-align: center;"><b> Mississippi State </b></th> <th style="text-align: center;"><b> Missouri </b></th> <th></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Total</td>
<td align="center">39.8</td>
<td align="center">28.5</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rushing</td>
<td align="center">12.6</td>
<td align="center">21.6</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Passing</td>
<td align="center">27.1</td>
<td align="center">6.9</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3"></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th style="text-align: center;"> <b>Success Rate (</b><a href="http://www.footballoutsiders.com/info/glossary#ncaa_success_rate" target="_blank">what's this?</a><b>)</b> </th> <th style="text-align: center;"><b> Mississippi State </b></th> <th style="text-align: center;"><b> Missouri </b></th> <th style="text-align: center;"><b>Nat'l Avg</b></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>All (close)</b></td>
<td align="center"><b> 37.5% </b></td>
<td align="center"><b> 33.3% </b></td>
<td align="center"><i><b> 41.6% </b></i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rushing (close)</td>
<td align="center">42.3%</td>
<td align="center">38.7%</td>
<td align="center"><i> 42.5% </i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Passing (close)</td>
<td align="center">34.2%</td>
<td align="center">25.0%</td>
<td align="center"><i> 40.7% </i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Standard Downs</td>
<td align="center">40.5%</td>
<td align="center">40.6%</td>
<td align="center"><i> 46.9% </i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Passing Downs</td>
<td align="center">31.8%</td>
<td align="center">21.1%</td>
<td align="center"><i> 30.5% </i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="4"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th style="text-align: center;"> <b>IsoPPP (</b><a href="http://www.footballstudyhall.com/2014/1/27/5349762/five-factors-college-football-efficiency-explosiveness-isoppp" target="_blank">what's this?</a><b>)</b> </th> <th style="text-align: center;"><b> Mississippi State </b></th> <th style="text-align: center;"><b> Missouri </b></th> <th style="text-align: center;"><b>Nat'l Avg</b></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>All (close)</b></td>
<td align="center"><b> 1.45 </b></td>
<td align="center"><b> 0.99 </b></td>
<td align="center"><i><b> 1.27 </b></i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rushing (close)</td>
<td align="center">0.75</td>
<td align="center">1.11</td>
<td align="center"><i> 1.07 </i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Passing (close)</td>
<td align="center">2.03</td>
<td align="center">0.71</td>
<td align="center"><i> 1.48 </i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Standard Downs</td>
<td align="center">0.96</td>
<td align="center">0.72</td>
<td align="center"><i> 1.11 </i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Passing Downs</td>
<td align="center">2.62</td>
<td align="center">1.86</td>
<td align="center"><i> 1.77 </i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="4"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th style="text-align: center;"><b>Line Stats</b></th> <th style="text-align: center;"><b> Mississippi State </b></th> <th style="text-align: center;"><b> Missouri </b></th> <th style="text-align: center;"><b>Nat'l Avg</b></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Line Yards/Carry (<a href="http://www.footballoutsiders.com/info/glossary#aly" target="_blank">what's this?</a>)</td>
<td align="center">2.58</td>
<td align="center">3.39</td>
<td align="center"><i> 2.87 </i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Std. Downs Sack Rt.</td>
<td align="center">9.1%</td>
<td align="center">18.2%</td>
<td align="center"><i> 4.9% </i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pass. Downs Sack Rt.</td>
<td align="center">6.3%</td>
<td align="center">22.2%</td>
<td align="center"><i> 7.5% </i></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table border="1">
<tbody>
<tr>
<th style="text-align: center;"><b>Turnovers</b></th> <th width="25%" style="text-align: center;"><b> Mississippi State </b></th> <th width="25%" style="text-align: center;"><b> Missouri </b></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Turnovers</td>
<td align="center">2</td>
<td align="center">2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Turnover Points (<a href="http://www.footballoutsiders.com/varsity-numbers/2009/varsity-numbers-talks-turnovers" target="_blank">what's this?</a>)</td>
<td align="center">8.3</td>
<td align="center">7.2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Turnover Margin</td>
<td align="center" colspan="2">+0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Exp. TO Margin</td>
<td align="center" colspan="2">Missouri +0.8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TO Luck (Margin vs. Exp. Margin)</td>
<td align="center" colspan="2">Mississippi State +0.8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>TO Points Margin</b></td>
<td align="center" colspan="2"><b> Missouri +1.1 points </b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th style="text-align: center;"><b>Situational</b></th> <th style="text-align: center;"><b> Mississippi State </b></th> <th style="text-align: center;"><b> Missouri </b></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Q1 S&P</td>
<td align="center">0.584</td>
<td align="center">0.415</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Q2 S&P</td>
<td align="center">0.503</td>
<td align="center">0.572</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Q3 S&P</td>
<td align="center">0.696</td>
<td align="center">0.353</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Q4 S&P</td>
<td align="center">0.452</td>
<td align="center">0.611</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1st Down S&P</td>
<td align="center">0.546</td>
<td align="center">0.536</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2nd Down S&P</td>
<td align="center">0.465</td>
<td align="center">0.532</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3rd Down S&P</td>
<td align="center">0.547</td>
<td align="center">0.434</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3"><b></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" style="text-align: center;"><b>Projected Scoring Margin: Mississippi State by 10.2 </b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" style="text-align: center;"><b>Actual Scoring Margin: Mississippi State by 18 </b></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Belated progress</h3>
<p><img src="https://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/4254251/Witter2-DF-MSU.0.JPG" width="100%"></p>
<p>Last year, Missouri adjusted its offensive philosophy in the middle of the season, adapting a more run-heavy approach, doing its defense some serious favors, and winning six games in a row to wrap up the regular season with another SEC title.</p>
<p>Feels like longer than a year ago, huh? With all that has (and hasn't) happened on the field this fall, and with all that has happened OFF the field (from Maty Mauk's suspensions to Concerned Student 1950), time has ceased making sense.</p>
<p>Regardless, any attempt Missouri wanted to make this year involving a focus on the run died on the vine when Russell Hansbrough got hurt, understudy Ish Witter proved unready, and the offensive line forgot how to open holes for whoever was carrying the ball. Missouri ranks an unfathomable 120th in Rushing S&P+ this year, with Witter and Hansbrough combining to average barely four yards per carry with an opportunity rate (percentage of carries five yards or more) of just 33 percent.</p>
<p>The last two games have offered hope in this regard. Or at least, they would have if this had been late-September instead of early-November. Mizzou managed a decent 40 percent rushing success rate against Vanderbilt in Nashville, then posted 39 percent with decent explosiveness against MSU last Thursday.</p>
<p>Witter had rushes of 10, 13, and 17 yards. Hansbrough had 11, 12, and 14. Tyler Hunt broke off a 72-yarder out of nothing in the fourth quarter. Mizzou still managed only average success rates, but average is far better than horrible.</p>
<p>Of course, it's too late in the year for some serious on-field breakthrough. Continued improvement could help Mizzou salvage a bowl bid, but thanks to the complete and total breakdown of the Missouri passing game, that's unlikely. And the simple fact that Missouri's only remaining goal is "pull off a couple of upsets to get to six wins," that tells us that progress was needed a long time ago, not in mid-November.</p>
<p>BYU's run defense, by the way, isn't very good. The Cougars have one of their best ever pass defenses under Bronco Mendenhall, but you can run on them a bit. If Missouri is prepared to take another step forward on the ground, BYU could accommodate.</p>
<h3>"Gashed"</h3>
<p><img src="https://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/4254207/Beckner-DF-MSU.0.JPG" width="100%"></p>
<p>The way we reacted to Mississippi State's offensive performance on Thursday was pretty funny. The defense finally got gashed! Breakdowns were common. MSU's offense had a ton of success.</p>
<p>Sort of. The Bulldogs did average 5.6 yards per play for the game, the second-highest average Missouri has allowed all year (Kentucky averaged 5.7). But MSU's offense is really good; the Bulldogs had averaged 6.8 yards per play over their previous four games and had only twice posted an average worse than 5.6.</p>
<p>Primary MSU running backs Brandon Holloway and Ashton Shumpert carried 14 times for 39 yards. Dak Prescott threw four touchdown passes, yes, but for the game he averaged only 6.5 yards per pass attempt, well below his season average. The rain might have had something to do with that, but this still speaks to our standards.</p>
<p>Two of MSU's five scoring drives began inside Missouri's 40 -- it took that for the Bulldogs to even cross 30 points (and 30 points isn't just a ton in college football ... for some teams, at least). MSU's success rate was a below-average 38 percent, and from a havoc perspective, Missouri was able to match the big plays MSU's defense made. It was another nice defensive performance that deserved a better result, even if it was shaky by our current standards for this D.</p>
<h3>Damn, Kentrell</h3>
<p>10.5 tackles, 0.5 tackles for loss, a forced fumble, and another blocked kick. I don't even know which of the 28 snide "grumble grumble too bad the Butkus Award committee doesn't think he's one of the 10 best linebackers in the country" remarks to make.</p>
<h3>That damned third quarter</h3>
<p>Mature teams land 1-2 punches. In 2013, Missouri found itself floundering in the heat against Toledo, up only 24-23 late in the third quarter. But the Tigers scored, forced a quick punt, and scored again to build a 15-point advantage. Two games later against Arkansas State, it was the same thing: score a TD, force a three-and-out, and score another TD to go from down two to cruising.</p>
<p>There are 2014 examples, too. Against Texas A&M, Missouri found itself down 20-13 in the third quarter. Next five possessions: MU TD, A&M three-and-out, MU TD, A&M four-and-out, MU TD. In the fourth quarter against Tennessee: MU TD, UT three-and-out, MU TD. Ballgame. Fourth quarter against Arkansas: MU TD, UA punt, MU TD. Fourth quarter against Minnesota: MU TD, UM punt, MU TD.</p>
<p>This year, Mizzou is young (painfully so on offense) and is still searching for a closer's instinct. MSU, on the other hand, has all the maturity MU lacks, especially at one specific position.</p>
<p>The Tigers fought as hard as they could to get to within 14-13 at halftime. And then came the third quarter.</p>
<ul>
<li>MSU: 6 plays, 77 yards, TD</li>
<li>MU: 1 play, 0 yards, INT</li>
<li>MSU: 6 plays, 18 yards, TD</li>
<li>MU: 6 plays, 18 yards, punt</li>
<li>MSU: 9 plays, 81 yards, TD</li>
</ul>
<p>The game featured 29 possessions; outside of these five, both teams averaged 4.8 yards per play, and MSU scored 14 points to Mizzou's 13. But good, mature teams take complete advantage of the openings they find. MSU is a good, mature team. Mizzou hopes it can be again soon.</p>
<h3>Targets & catches</h3>
<p><img src="https://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/4254245/Reese-DF-MSU.0.JPG" width="100%"></p>
<p>In theory, an improved run game will open up opportunities for Missouri's passing game. But at this point, I'm not sure Mizzou will be able to take advantage of whatever opportunities it receives.</p>
<p>This is dismal:</p>
<table border="1">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>Name</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>Targets</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>Catches</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>Yards</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>Notes</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>J'Mon Moore (WR)</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">6</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">17</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3rd downs: 4 targets, 1 catch</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Emanuel Hall (WR)</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">4</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">34</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">all 3 catches in one Q4 drive</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nate Brown (WR)</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">4</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">last 11 targets: 1 catch, 18 yards</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jason Reese (TE)</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">9</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Russell Hansbrough (RB)</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">5</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tyler Hunt (RB)</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">35</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sean Culkin (TE)</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">6</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ray Wingo (WR)</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wesley Leftwich (WR)</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">11 targets vs. Vandy</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cam Hilton (WR)</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2 catches vs. UGA, 1 target since</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>WRs</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">17</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">7</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">52</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>3.1 yards per target</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>TEs</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">4</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">15</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>3.8 yards per target</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>RBs</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">40</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>13.3 yards per target</b></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>This is the definition of flailing. Wes Leftwich went from 11 targets to one. Nate Brown has one catch in his last 11 chances. J'Mon Moore was the third-down target of choice, and it didn't pay off. Emanuel Hall led Missouri's receiving corps because of one good drive (which ended in zero points). The tight ends have gone invisible, and running backs are Missouri's best pass-catching options.</p>
<p>Guh. Let's move on.</p>
<h3>5 keys revisited</h3>
<h4>1. The trenches ... always the trenches</h4>
<blockquote>
<p>Spoiler alert: This is probably going to be the No. 1 key all season. Missouri's offensive line was between bad and terrible for most of four games, and Mizzou had one of the least efficient offenses in the country. ... This key is for both sides of the ball, of course. If Mizzou's defensive line wins its battle, and the Missouri offensive line can either fight to a draw or only occasionally lose, the Tigers might be able to position themselves to win. But this has to be a net win for Mizzou, and preferably a large one.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Line yards/carry: Mizzou 3.39, MSU 2.58<br><span>Standard downs sack rate: MSU 9.1%, Mizzou 18.2%<br></span><span>Passing downs sack rate: MSU 6.3%, Mizzou 22.2%</span></b></p>
<p>The run blocking really was a pleasant sight. Unfortunately, that only matters so much when the opponent is allowed to get immediate pressure on nearly every pass attempt. Drew Lock was hit on his second and third pass attempts of the game. That set the tone.</p>
<h4>2. Field position (and turnovers)</h4>
<blockquote>
<p>For the same reasons as in previous weeks. Mizzou needs the occasional short field or defensive touchdown (or, hey, maybe a special teams TD, though that feels like far too much to ask for), and as good as this defense has been, it hasn't created many (outside of the Georgia game, anyway). Even with a relative breakout performance, the Mizzou offense isn't suddenly going to be capable of driving 70+ yards four times to win a game. It'll need help ... even more help than the defense has already given it.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Average starting field position: MSU +8.1<br><span>Turnover points margin: MU +1.1</span></b></p>
<p>Turnovers and a blocked punt worked in Mizzou's favor overall. Unfortunately, eight of Missouri's 14 possessions gained 10 or fewer yards; only three of MSU's 15 did the same. Combine that with a shaky punting night from Corey Fatony, and you've got a field position disadvantage that had nothing to do with turnovers.</p>
<h4>3. Finishing</h4>
<blockquote>
<p>And if Missouri gets a short field or manufactures a nice drive ... please, oh please, oh please finish the drive in the damn end zone. Mizzou's red zone execution has been tragic this season. The Tigers probably won't win any game in which that continues to be the trend.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Points per scoring opportunity: MSU 4.43, MU 2.60</b></p>
<p>MSU created two more opportunities than Mizzou and therefore put itself in good position to win. But finishing finished the job. If Mizzou's and MSU's averages were flipped, then Mizzou wins about 23-18.</p>
<p>This double-dipping has been an issue for Missouri all year. You can bail yourself out of having an inconsistent offense if you execute well near the end zone. Last year, Mizzou did pretty well in that regard. This year, Mizzou has been horrific.</p>
<h4>4. First-and-10</h4>
<blockquote>
<p>Mizzou took the first step (a mostly invisible one) toward good offense against Vanderbilt, actually generating a better than 50% success rate on first downs. The problem, of course, was the self-sabotage that usually followed on second-and-short. But until you nail first down, nothing else matters. Second-and-9 with a shaky line and a freshman quarterback is death.</p>
<p>On the flipside, if MSU's short passing game is clicking, and Mizzou cannot leverage the Bulldogs into passing downs, then it's going to be a long evening.</p>
<p>Well, the weather's probably going to make sure it's a long evening regardless. But you know what I mean.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>First down yards per play: MU 5.2, MSU 4.2<br><span>First down success rate: MU 41%, MSU 35%</span></b></p>
<p>Granted, some of Missouri's success came in the fourth quarter, when the Tigers were down 18. Still, for the second straight game since the trip to Georgia (which may have been the worst first-down performance in Missouri's history), first down wasn't an issue for Mizzou. Unfortunately, everything else still was.</p>
<h4>5. Russell Hansbrough</h4>
<blockquote>
<p>He's gotten almost no help from his line, and, with maybe only four games left in his college career, he's scored zero touchdowns and experienced zero breakout games in his senior season. That makes me sad. If Mizzou can somehow get him going, the Tiger D should make sure there's a chance to win this game. But again, that's asking for something that hasn't happened since January 1.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Russell Hansbrough: 18 intended touches (carries + targets), 67 yards (3.7)</b></p>
<p>Russ got going on one second-quarter drive (five carries, 34 yards), but overall, he still didn't have himself much of a night. However...</p>
<p><b>Ish Witter and Tyler Hunt: 19 intended touches, 201 yards (10.6)</b></p>
<p>For three quarters (the first, second, and fourth), the run game gave Mizzou a chance. Unfortunately, there are four quarters.</p>
<p><img src="https://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/4254223/Hunt2-DF-MSU.0.JPG" width="100%"></p>
<p>***</p>
<p>NOTE: All photos by Derrick Forsythe, who has been doing a tremendous job all year. This one is just spectacular:</p>
<p><img src="https://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/4254215/Hansbrough-DF-MSU.0.JPG" width="100%"></p>
<p>It was, uh, wet.</p>
https://www.rockmnation.com/2015/11/11/9706338/missouri-mississippi-state-football-score-stats-recapBill Connelly2015-11-06T09:00:05-06:002015-11-06T09:00:05-06:00One step forward, one step back
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<figcaption>Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Russell Hansbrough, Ish Witter, and Tyler Hunt: 34 carries, 228 yards. 31 pass attempts: 72 net yards.</p> <p><b>1. Mississippi State's biggest strength this year is depth in the passing game</b>. We knew that coming in -- MSU ranks 65th in Rushing S&P+ but 11th in Passing S&P+ -- and we saw its effects on Thursday night.</p>
<p>Even against a pretty good Mizzou secondary, the Bulldogs were able to pick out matchups they liked and exploit them. That often meant "Find Fred Ross and throw him the ball," but DeRunnya Wilson had success down the sideline, both Fred Brown and Darrion Hutcherson had at least one 20+ yard catch, and MSU ended up with six guys with at least two catches. Mizzou's offense, meanwhile, had two such players, and one of them was Emanuel Hall, who had all three of his receptions in one fourth-quarter drive.</p>
<p>Logan Cheadle has been earning more and more playing time at cornerback for Mizzou, but MSU found him physically outmatched on a couple of occasions and took advantage. Aside from dump-offs, Dak Prescott didn't appear interested in testing Aarion Penton all that much, but he had enough quality elsewhere to find receivers in space. The good news, as it were, is that none of the three remaining opponents have either Prescott at QB or a receiving corps this deep.</p>
<p>This isn't an indictment of Mizzou's secondary so much as it's a reminder what a nice, deep receiving corps can do for you. Mizzou had one in 2013 and will have one again one day ... but quite obviously doesn't have one this year.</p>
<p><b>2. From a havoc standpoint, Mizzou matched MSU</b>. The Tigers ended up with 11 tackles for loss, five passes defensed, and three forced fumbles in 77 plays. MSU ended up with 11 TFLs, 6 PDs, and one forced fumble in 71. Havoc rate for both teams: 25%.</p>
<p>One of the main differences was that two of MSU's six PDs were interceptions. Mizzou had a couple of excellent chances at INTs but couldn't reel them in. And when your offense is still struggling -- despite that late 72-yard run by Tyler Hunt, Mizzou still averaged only 4.5 yards per play, which is absolutely improvement and still quite depressing -- you rue every missed chance. Mizzou recovered three of the game's four fumbles and blocked a punt but still needed more breaks. And power to MSU for keeping its head and making the plays to win the game in the second half. Among other things, we saw the difference between having a freshman QB and a senior QB last night.</p>
<p><b>3. Drew Lock made a lot of mistakes</b>. He's still a freshman, and he's got a wretched line in front of him (and few receivers open), but there were quite a few occasions last night when I couldn't even figure out what he was seeing. Quickly and decisively throwing into double coverage. Staring down receivers and throwing to them even though they didn't even start out open. And ... whatever happened on that early-third quarter interception.</p>
<p>Rolling right after he got chased out of the pocket (at least two linemen committed dramatic holds and still couldn't actually keep Lock protected for more than about a second and a half), Lock fired downfield, and I assumed he was throwing the ball away, but it stayed in bounds for the easiest pick of Kivon Coleman's life.</p>
<blockquote data-partner="tweetdeck" class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Drew Lock said his 3rd qtr INT was "me trying to make something out of nothing" and "being an ignorant 18 year old."</p>
— Gabe DeArmond (@GabeDeArmond) <a href="https://twitter.com/GabeDeArmond/status/662507365334282240">November 6, 2015</a>
</blockquote>
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<blockquote data-partner="tweetdeck" class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Lock: "I made a horrible play. I knew I made a horrible play. We all knew I made a horrible play."</p>
— Gabe DeArmond (@GabeDeArmond) <a href="https://twitter.com/GabeDeArmond/status/662507510864056320">November 6, 2015</a>
</blockquote>
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<p>This is the downside to playing a true freshman without giving him the necessary tools. Five games ago, I called for Lock to begin starting over Maty Mauk because Mauk had completely lost the plot and played like a freshman against Kentucky. (Mauk would then get himself suspended and hint at personal problems that were likely affecting his level of play, among other things.)</p>
<p>One of the primary objections to the thought of Lock playing was that he might get David Carr'd (or Blaine Gabbert'd) -- his development would get thrown off by a lack of support from the players around him. That was an obvious danger, but I thought if Mauk wasn't actually distinguishing himself as better than the freshman, you might as well play the freshman.</p>
<p>I'm not going to say his development has obviously been stunted, or that he's been ruined by the experience, or anything like that. He's got at least two more years to develop, and you need quite a few hands to count true-freshman QBs in this sport who looked lost, then developed into quality starters. (To name one: Georgia's Matt Stafford completed just 53 percent of his passes with seven TDs, 13 INTs, and only a 109 passer rating, and that was with a much better supporting cast. The next year, his rating was 129; the year after: 154.)</p>
<p>Still, it's a concern. In Lock's fifth start, he made more decision-making mistakes than he had in any game yet. His passing game supporting cast once again did him no favors, but ... it's a concern until he proves it's not.</p>
<p><b>4. My goodness, pass protection was a nightmare</b>. Run blocking was still inconsistent -- even though Russell Hansbrough and Ish Witter combined to actually average 5 yards per carry for the first time in ~13 years (give or take), there were still lots of stuffs there, too. But you could actually see progress in the run department. MSU's pass rush, which hasn't been incredibly amazing this year, was able to immediately generate pressure on Lock; it was like every pass attempt was on a passing down, even when it wasn't.</p>
<p>On Missouri's second snap, Lock threw a simple, quick pass to Nate Brown, but in what seemed like about a one-step delay, <i>with Lock in shotgun</i>, MSU was able to get pressure on him. That's ridiculous. And on the third play, it was a team picture in the Mizzou backfield. To say the least, that set a tone, one that continued through Mizzou's last drive, when Tyler Hunt briefly became super-human, and Mizzou's line prevented points regardless.</p>
<p>Hunt's 72-yard run (which included almost no blocking) set Mizzou up inside the MSU 30, and a pass interference penalty gave Mizzou the ball at the MSU 2. Mizzou then committed an illegal formation penalty. Then Lock got sacked. Then, after Hunt got back to the MSU 7, Mitch Hall committed a false start. That meant third-and-goal from the 12 ... and eventually no points.</p>
<p>It's not surprising when a bad line doesn't suddenly become good. But because of the makeup of the line, this awful unit hangs like a dark cloud only not over this season, but next season. Mizzou will have to replace four starters and five of its top six. And while a) things can't get much worse (hooray!) and b) <a target="_blank" href="http://www.footballstudyhall.com/2015/9/4/9254347/a-better-way-to-measure-returning-experience">experience might not actually matter like we think up front</a>, the simple fact is that probably four of next year's starters haven't been deemed good enough to crack this awful lineup this year. (But I'll stop there since we've talked about this for most of the last month, and since I have a 'looking toward 2016' post to finish at some point in the coming days.)</p>
<p><b>5. I'm still assuming there's a reason why Tyler Hunt doesn't get more touches</b>. He now has Missouri's three longest plays from scrimmage, and yesterday's big gainer was an incredible one-man effort.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-video" lang="en">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">72 yard run from Tyler Hunt <a href="https://t.co/rb9dLWoX3e">pic.twitter.com/rb9dLWoX3e</a></p>
— Rock 〽️ Nation (@rockmnation) <a href="https://twitter.com/rockmnation/status/662495736429346817">November 6, 2015</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
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<p>Now, Mizzou's other running backs looked pretty good yesterday, too. Ish Witter was as quick and decisive as we've seen him, and while Russell Hansbrough often had defenders on him the moment he got the ball, he looked like Russ again. Still, for a team desperate for big plays, Hunt has provided some but still only has 20 carries and five receptions, fewer than three touches per game.</p>
<p>While there are plenty of reasons to question any coaching staff, I still assume there's a reason for this. Either he's not a very good practice guy, or he's not a very good blocker. That's usually the case -- Mizzou's coaches don't have a vested interest in tamping down their own potential, so if he's not getting more snaps, one should probably assume there's a thought process behind it.</p>
<p>But ... damn. Hunt isn't the most agile guy in the world, but he has 340 yards in 25 touches. As a random comparison, Witter has 512 yards ... in 113 touches.</p>
<p>Side note: I get far too much enjoyment out of Grumpy Gary. Pinkel gets so cranky and defensive when talking to the media after losses. He just wants to say "Things are bad, and we're going to try to fix them. Goodbye." But he can't, and he knows it, and it makes him gruff.</p>
<p>Still, this is pretty impressive defensiveness, even for him.</p>
<blockquote data-partner="tweetdeck" class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Pinkel says he finds it curious we ask about Tyler Hunt after a 72-yard run but not before. That's not my recollection.</p>
— David Morrison (@DavidCMorrison) <a href="https://twitter.com/DavidCMorrison/status/662502373378494464">November 6, 2015</a>
</blockquote>
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<p>Yeaaaaaaah. I seem to recall Hunt being a pretty popular topic after the SEMO and UConn games, too.</p>
<p><b>6. I think I disagreed with more decisions last night than I have in quite a while</b>. I haven't been particularly mean or nice regarding offensive coordinator Josh Henson this year, simply because when your line is this bad, and the components of your passing game are this young, and your best player (Hansbrough) is hurt for most of the year, there are no good plays to call. While I have plenty of questions about Henson, it hasn't been my top concern.</p>
<p>But wow, do I have some questions regarding last night. Like, why, after MSU opened the second half with a score, and after Mizzou actually established a run game in the second quarter, did you come out passing at all? Why give Lock an opportunity to throw the heinous pick he threw when it appears you might actually be able to run the ball a bit? At times, it felt like Mizzou was attempting balance for balance's sake, even though the run was working reasonably well and the passing game was proving it had no hope. I understand why you want to strive for balance, but you also have to acknowledge the reality of the situation.</p>
<p>And while we're asking questions (more for PInkel than Henson): why not kick the field goal on fourth-and-5 from the MSU 22 when you're down three possessions with 11 minutes left? And if you're going to go for it ... why in the world are you going to run an option with Lock? I loved that type of call when James Franklin was the QB, but James Franklin's not the QB.</p>
<p>And why not challenge two potentially awful calls: 1) the backwards pass that Dak Prescott threw when he got lit up by Charles Harris (it very much looked like a backwards pass, which would have resulted in a 10-yard loss instead of an incomplete pass -- those 10 yards would have come in handy considering MSU ended up making a 36-yard field goal), and 2) the potentially bad spot Mizzou received when Russell Hansbrough appeared to rush for 13 yards on third-and-13. Pinkel's usually pretty quick to challenge those things, but both remained unchallenged. Obviously those two calls don't make up an 18-point difference, but considering Mizzou had two scoring opportunities in the fourth quarter, the context of those two drives might have been totally different.</p>
<p><b>7. Special teams was ... a draw?</b> Mizzou blocked a punt, and Andrew Baggett nailed a 35-yard field goal in the middle of an incredible downpour. Meanwhile, kick returns were still an outright nightmare, and MSU's Brandon Holloway was able to break a long kick return after muffing the catch. I guess that's pretty even?</p>
https://www.rockmnation.com/mizzou-football-2015/2015/11/6/9680320/missouri-offense-drew-lock-tyler-hunt-ish-witter-russell-hansbroughBill Connelly2015-11-06T04:57:50-06:002015-11-06T04:57:50-06:00Mizzou scores TD, loses 31-13
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/zbiBQ0YASbWZNIkGNYICaZtrTEE=/0x0:3990x2660/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47596959/usa-today-8905467.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>58,878 fans showed up for and stuck through a torrential downpour and while I give each one of them props, I hope Mizzou never plays another Thursday night game ever again.
<br> <br>
<br>These are your morning links.</p> <h3>
<img src="https://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/3376996/6u3PzSW.0.png" style="font-size: 1.5em; line-height: 1.25em; -webkit-user-select: none;"><span>What's On</span>
</h3>
<p><span>Russell Hansbrough's</span> 1st TD of the season is Mizzou's 1st in a month</p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-video">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">MIZZOU SCORED A TOUCHDOWN 14 yard run by <a href="https://twitter.com/imthatnike">@imthatnike</a> <a href="https://t.co/Axd8hFN246">pic.twitter.com/Axd8hFN246</a></p>
— Oscar Gamble (@OscarGambler) <a href="https://twitter.com/OscarGambler/status/662469060852973568">November 6, 2015</a>
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<p><span>Tyler Hunt's</span> 72 yard run from Mizzou's 1 yard line</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-video" lang="en">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">72 yard run from Tyler Hunt <a href="https://t.co/rb9dLWoX3e">pic.twitter.com/rb9dLWoX3e</a></p>
— Rock 〽️ Nation (@rockmnation) <a href="https://twitter.com/rockmnation/status/662495736429346817">November 6, 2015</a>
</blockquote>
<h3>
<img src="https://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/3376996/6u3PzSW.0.png" style="font-size: 1.5em; line-height: 1.25em; -webkit-user-select: none;"><span>Game Recaps</span>
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<p><a href="http://mutigers.com/news/2015/11/5/recap_MSU.aspx" target="_blank">University of Missouri Athletics - @MizzouFootball Falls to Mississippi State, 31-13</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Tyler Hunt led Mizzou (4-5, 1-5) with 85 yards on the ground and 35 through the air, becoming the first Tiger to lead the team in both categories since <span>Jeremy Maclin</span> vs. Kansas State in 2008. Hunt's 72-yard run out of the shadow of his own end zone was his third play from scrimmage of 50 or more yards this season.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><a href="http://mutigers.com/news/2015/11/5/notes_MSU.aspx?path=football" target="_blank">University of Missouri Athletics - #MIZvsMSU Post-Game Notes</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Offense Mizzou rushed 45 times for 215 yards, its most attempts and yards on the ground this season, surpassing the previous high of 42 rushes for 163 yards vs. South Carolina (Oct. 3). Mizzou's 215 rushing yards were its most since rolling to 337 rushing yards vs. Minnesota in the Citrus Bowl (Jan. 1, 2015).</p>
<p>Senior TB Tyler Hunt recorded 120 all-purpose yards (85 rushing, 35 receiving), bringing his season average-per-touch (25 touches, 340 all-purpose yards) to 13.6 yards. Hunt's game included a career-best 85 rushing yards on a career-high six carries. Senior TB Russell Hansbrough ran for his first touchdown of the season with a 14-yard rush late in the second quarter. Sophomore TB <span>Ish Witter</span> carried the ball 12 times for 81 yards, his most since running for 98 yards vs. South Carolina (Oct. 3).</p>
<p>Redshirt freshman QB Marvin Zanders saw the first action of his career in the first half.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><img style="-webkit-user-select: none;" src="https://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/4237461/CTG20JyWsAAZG2e.0.png"></p>
<p><a href="http://espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=400603911" target="_blank">Mississippi State vs. Missouri - Game Recap - November 5, 2015 - ESPN</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Freshman quarterback Drew Lock, the starter throughout the losing streak, was 11 of 26 for 107 yards and was sacked five times. <span>Maty Mauk</span>, who began the season as the starter, was suspended for the second time this season on Sunday for a violation of team policies. Pinkel said Lock did some good things, "but I'm not going to go through an evaluation of our QBs."</p>
</blockquote>
<p><a href="http://mutigers.com/news/2015/11/6/quotes_MSU.aspx?path=football" target="_blank">University of Missouri Athletics - #MIZvsMSU Post-Game Quotes</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>On Drew Lock's progress:</p>
<p>"First of all, I don't care what anybody thinks. I've never done that since I've been coaching. I don't do that, number one. But most people, everybody's favorite quarterback is the backup quarterback until he doesn't play well, then they want the next guy at quarterback, then they want the next guy at quarterback. I thought he had a real good drive down there towards the end, he threw the ball well and made some good plays. We didn't get in the end zone, but I'm not going to go through an evaluation of our quarterbacks."</p>
<p>On Marvin Zanders playing:</p>
<p>"We did some running things that we thought we were going to be using with Maty [Mauk], so we already had them in. We brought Marvin [Zanders] in, and I thought he did some good things. There was a missed call at the end. He hadn't played much. It was difficult. That's just a problem we're facing."</p>
<p>On the current losing streak:</p>
<p>"Nothing changes. You go back and you make yourself as good as you can. You coach better. You try to design better. You try to get your players to play better. It's the same formula. You have a great attitude. You work your butt off. That's what you do. We've been doing it since the day I've been coaching. That's what I was taught. That's what we do. There's not magic dust. That doesn't happen, so that's what we're going to do."</p>
<p>On <span>Tyler Hunt's</span> role:</p>
<p>"He did a great job, he really did. It's typical, we get asked about him when he has a 70-yard run but nobody says anything prior to that. I get that. He's done a great job. He's done a great job. Ish [Witter] is doing a good job, and so did Russell [Hansbrough]. You play them one at a time. We work them into the game plan different ways."</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Uh, Gary? People have been asking about Tyler Hunt since Kentucky at least?</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/DavidCMorrison">@DavidCMorrison</a> I seem to recall asking in the Monday presser after the Kentucky game why Hunt wasn't getting the ball more.</p>
— Blake Toppmeyer (@btoppmeyer) <a href="https://twitter.com/btoppmeyer/status/662505399548006400">November 6, 2015</a>
</blockquote>
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<p><span>Tyler Hunt has the three longest plays from scrimmage for MU: 78-yard catch vs SEMO, 51-yard catch vs UCONN, 72-yard run vs. MSU</span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.stltoday.com/sports/college/mizzou/mizzou-falls-flat-drops-fourth-straight/article_d469ad42-995a-5966-99bc-e972d7cecdfa.html" target="_blank">Mizzou falls flat, drops fourth straight : Dave Matter</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>As much as the Tigers attempt to leave third-string tailback Hunt out of the game plan, the senior came through with a few sparks of offense, a 35-yard catch and run on a screen pass and a 72-yard run late in the fourth quarter. Combined with Hansbrough (81 rushing yards) and backup Ish Witter (62), Mizzou’s tailbacks combined for 228 yards on 34 carries.</p>
<p>But unlike the Tigers’ other SEC defeats, cracks in the defense appeared as Prescott completed 27 of 40 passes for 303 yards. Two more Prescott touchdown passes extended Mississippi State’s lead in the third quarter as the senior connected with De’Runnya Wilson and <span>Fred Brown</span>.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><a href="http://www.stltoday.com/sports/college/mizzou/mizzou-notes-tigers-end-touchdown-drought/article_94c31738-22d9-56c2-9af9-3deb65b31af8.html" target="_blank">Mizzou notes: Tigers end touchdown drought : Dave Matter</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>After 47 consecutive possessions without a touchdown, dating back to the fourth quarter against South Carolina on Oct. 3, the Tigers visited the end zone late in the second quarter Thursday against Mississippi State. Russell Hansbrough’s 14-yard touchdown run broke the drought, marking the Tigers’ first TD in a span of 226 minutes and 46 seconds.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><a href="http://www.columbiatribune.com/blogs/behind_the_stripes/prescott-puts-up-tds-in---mississippi-state-win/article_9b18a944-841b-11e5-81e5-67446fa63656.html" target="_blank">Prescott puts up 4 TDs in 31-13 Mississippi State win over MU - David Morrison</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Missouri had its most productive offensive outing since the Kentucky game, gaining 322 total yards and scoring its first touchdown in 226:46 of game time with a Russell Hansbrough 14-yard run with 1:50 to go in the first half. But the Tigers would gain only 27 yards in the third quarter, as the Bulldogs gained 173 and pulled away.</p>
<p>Hansbrough ran 16 times for 62 yards, Ish Witter ran 12 times for 81 yards and Tyler Hunt carried for 85 yards on six carries -- including a 72-yarder from the 1-yard line in the fourth quarter -- as the Tigers racked up 215 yards on 48 carries.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><span>This is Mizzou's first November loss in 3 years years, falls to 0-3 in Thursday night home games. Pinkel 0-3 when both teams coming off byes</span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.columbiatribune.com/sports/mu_football/mu-defense-sprouts-leaks-in-rainy---loss-to/article_0eafaa24-db23-5923-9859-12450f0b3cfc.html?_dc=551297629484.9067" target="_blank">MU defense sprouts leaks in rainy, 31-13 loss to Mississippi State - David Morrison</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>When it rained, it poured. "We all on the defensive side of the ball hold ourselves to a higher standard," junior linebacker <span>Michael Scherer</span> said. "Everyone’s frustrated. No one’s happy. That’s our fault. You guys can blame whatever you want on the offense for the past few weeks, but we let up 31 points. We didn’t play well."</p>
<p>Prescott became the first player to pass for 300 yards against Missouri since Oklahoma State’s <span>Clint Chelf</span> put up 381 in the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/cotton-bowl">Cotton Bowl</a> following the 2013 season.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-video">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">You're telling me they scored a TD on the seam against Michael Scherer? <a href="https://t.co/iMxsYCXt6P">pic.twitter.com/iMxsYCXt6P</a></p>
— Oscar Gamble (@OscarGambler) <a href="https://twitter.com/OscarGambler/status/662452006167011328">November 6, 2015</a>
</blockquote>
<blockquote data-partner="tweetdeck" class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Scherer said on MSU's 1st TD, <span>Fred Ross</span> was his responsibility if he released deep - which he did - but Scherer was too focused on QB run.</p>
— <span>David Morrison</span> (@DavidCMorrison) <a href="https://twitter.com/DavidCMorrison/status/662512104704880640">November 6, 2015</a>
</blockquote>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.rockmnation.com/mizzou-football-schemes-analysis-breakdown/2015/10/7/9452751/missouri-tigers-defensive-line-josh-augusta-dlinezou-havoc#pgh/36/7469.5">Why does that sound oddly familiar?.</a></p>
https://www.rockmnation.com/mizzou-news/2015/11/6/9680100/missouri-tigers-mississippi-state-recap-russell-hansbrough-tyler-hunt-drew-lockOscar Gamble2015-11-05T23:27:00-06:002015-11-05T23:27:00-06:00It was close until it wasn't
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<img alt="Pictured: the bright spot." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/qOsXr3_IiRwjf2VWQWDedfO5SvE=/0x0:3349x2233/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47595589/usa-today-8905469.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Pictured: the bright spot. | Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Mizzou kept it close for a half before getting bulldozed by the Bulldogs.</p> <p>Missouri's defense kept <span>Dak Prescott</span> and the Mississippi St. offense under wraps for as long as they could, and for a moment it looked like the offense would finally reward them for their efforts.</p>
<p>Prescott connected with <span>Fred Ross</span> for a 36-yard touchdown on MSU's first series to make ti 7-0. After that, the defense dug in their heels and the offense showed some signs of life. The Tigers connected on two field goals from 31 and 35 yards out to pull within one before <span>De'Runnya Wilson</span> snagged a 28-yard TD pass, putting the Bulldogs up 14-6.</p>
<p>Then, it happened.</p>
<p>The seas parted and the heavenly host wept as <span>Russell Hansbrough</span> scampered into the end zone, ending Missouri's lengthy drought. It was Mizzou's third rushing touchdown on the season and its first in 33 days. The score heading into halftime was 14-13 MSU.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">MIZZOU SCORED A TOUCHDOWN 14 yard run by <a href="https://twitter.com/imthatnike">@imthatnike</a> <a href="https://t.co/Axd8hFN246">pic.twitter.com/Axd8hFN246</a></p>
— Oscar Gamble (@OscarGambler) <a href="https://twitter.com/OscarGambler/status/662469060852973568">November 6, 2015</a>
</blockquote>
<p>Things went downhill from there.</p>
<p>Dak drove the Bulldogs down the field on their first drive of the third quarter and hit Wilson to make it 21-13, then connected with Ross to bring us to our final score of 31-13.</p>
<p>In the only other offensive highlight of the night for the Tigers, Gary Pinkel put the ball in <span>Tyler Hunt's</span> hands and he promptly rattled off a 72-yard romp.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">72 yard run from <span>Tyler Hunt</span> <a href="https://t.co/rb9dLWoX3e">pic.twitter.com/rb9dLWoX3e</a></p>
— Rock 〽️ Nation (@rockmnation) <a href="https://twitter.com/rockmnation/status/662495736429346817">November 6, 2015</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</p>
<p>Sure, Missouri never did cash in afterwards, but it's nice to see Hunt get some touches.</p>
<p>Missouri drops to 4-5 on the season. They will face off against BYU in Arrowhead Stadium on November 14.</p>
<h4>Highlights:</h4>
<p><span><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/m1nuguNrY08" frameborder="0"></iframe></span></p>
https://www.rockmnation.com/2015/11/5/9679624/mississippi-state-31-missouri-13-it-was-close-until-it-wasntJack Peglow2015-11-05T10:13:17-06:002015-11-05T10:13:17-06:00The MSU-Mizzou preview
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/kxdteZTGnaS7g6QSwMen5RMeps4=/0x83:4194x2879/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47590679/usa-today-8837757.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The S&P+ projections, which you have to admit have been pretty accurate in their Mizzou pessimism of late, say Mississippi State has about a 76% chance of winning tonight, by an average of about 12 points. So I guess head into this preview knowing that's the baseline.</p>
<p>But by now, we know how the 'likely' result plays out: Mizzou's offense generates minimal opportunities and finishes none in the end zone, the defense has just one or two loose possessions, and that makes the difference in the game. We've seen the rerun a few times now.</p>
<p>So as I walk through the frequently discouraging stats below, let's talk about the positives and best-case scenarios. It's been a while since we encountered the best case -- even South Carolina was only a good scenario, not a <i>great</i> one. Mizzou still has a 24 percent chance of winning, after all, so let's talk about how that 24 percent might play out.</p>
<p>Here's the optimist's take on rather pessimistic numbers.</p>
<h3>When MSU has the ball...</h3>
<h4>Standard Downs</h4>
<table border="1">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center"><b></b></td>
<td colspan="2" align="center"><b>MSU Offense</b></td>
<td colspan="2" align="center"><b>Mizzou Defense</b></td>
<td align="center"><b></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center"><b></b></td>
<td align="center"><b>Avg.</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>Rk</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>Avg.</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>Rk</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>Edge</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Standard Downs S&P+</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>119.1</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>16</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>123.2</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>11</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>push</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b>Standard Downs Success Rate</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>54.8%</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>7</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>41.7%</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>33</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>MSU</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b>Standard Downs IsoPPP</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>1.11</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>64</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>0.88</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>1</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>Mizzou big</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left;">SD Line Yards per Carry</td>
<td align="center">3.06</td>
<td align="center">41</td>
<td align="center">2.44</td>
<td align="center">22</td>
<td align="center">Mizzou</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left;">SD Sack Rate</td>
<td align="center">3.4%</td>
<td align="center">41</td>
<td align="center">5.4%</td>
<td align="center">52</td>
<td align="center">push</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><b>Opportunity No. 1: Dink and dunk</b>. Players like De'Runnya Wilson, Fred Brown, and Donald Gray can get open downfield if you take your eyes off the ball. But priority number one for the MSU offense is the short stuff. Mississippi State is great at staying ahead of the chains but doesn't generate an overt number of big plays. Mizzou, meanwhile, gives up the smallest big plays of anybody in the country.</p>
<p>Obviously it's not a good thing if MSU is able to generate four to six yards per play on standard downs and stay in second- and third-and-manageable. But it's better than getting gashed.</p>
<p><u>Standard Downs Targets & Catches</u><br>Fred Ross (WR): 38 targets, 30 catches, 284 yards (7.5 per target), 1 TD<br>De'Runnya Wilson (WR): 31 targets, 20 catches, 296 yards (9.6), 3 TD<br>Malik Dear (WR): 19 targets, 16 catches, 153 yards (8.1)<br>Fred Brown (WR): 18 targets, 14 catches, 230 yards (12.8)<br>Gus Walley (TE): 14 targets, 11 catches, 77 yards (5.5), 1 TD<br>Donald Gray (WR): 12 targets, 9 catches, 179 yards (14.9), 2 TD<br>Brandon Holloway (WR): 12 targets, 9 catches, 116 yards (9.7), 2 TD<br>Ashton Shumpert (RB): 11 targets, 6 catches, 68 yards (6.2)<br>Darrion Hutcherson (TE): 8 targets, 8 catches, 90 yards (11.3), 1 TD<br>Joe Morrow (WR): 6 targets, 3 catches, 61 yards (10.2), 1 TD</p>
<p>You see the balance here. Ross, Dear, and Walley are the possession guys, Brown and Gray are the keep-you-honest threats, and Wilson fits into both categories. MSU throws more frequently on standard downs than almost anybody in college football -- they're 126th in SD run rate (43%), behind only UMass and Washington State and ahead of pass-crazy teams like Western Kentucky, Texas Tech, and Bowling Green. The run is an afterthought, in part because it hasn't been that great, and in part because the passing game has worked.</p>
<p>You would think Mizzou has an advantage here; the Tigers have tackled so incredibly well on those short passes, with Kenya Dennis, Aarion Penton, and company fighting off blockers and getting to the ball carrier. But MSU's really good the short passing game, probably better than anybody else Mizzou has faced. Something will have to give.</p>
<h4>Passing Downs</h4>
<table border="1">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center"><b></b></td>
<td colspan="2" align="center"><b>MSU Offense</b></td>
<td colspan="2" align="center"><b>Mizzou Defense</b></td>
<td align="center"><b></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center"><b></b></td>
<td align="center"><b>Avg.</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>Rk</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>Avg.</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>Rk</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>Edge</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Passing Downs S&P+</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>115.3</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>38</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>120.3</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>27</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>push</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b>Passing Downs Success Rate</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>31.2%</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>60</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>28.0%</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>50</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>push</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b>Passing Downs IsoPPP</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>1.89</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>35</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>1.32</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>2</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>Mizzou</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left;">PD Line Yards per Carry</td>
<td align="center">3.16</td>
<td align="center">70</td>
<td align="center">2.43</td>
<td align="center">14</td>
<td align="center">Mizzou big</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left;">PD Sack Rate</td>
<td align="center">4.6%</td>
<td align="center">25</td>
<td align="center">12.2%</td>
<td align="center">13</td>
<td align="center">push</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><b>Opportunity No. 2: Closing the deal</b>. Missouri's defense has been good but not elite on passing downs. The Tigers don't blitz frequently, relying on its awesome pass rush and big-play prevention to form a nice combination. It usually works, but opponents can sometimes catch back up to the chains.</p>
<p>This might not be something MSU can take advantage of, however. Like Mizzou, the Bulldogs have been good on PDs ... but not <i>too</i> good.</p>
<p><u>Passing Downs Targets & Catches</u><br>De'Runnya Wilson (WR): 22 targets, 13 catches, 228 yards (10.4), 3 TD<br>Fred Ross (WR): 18 targets, 10 catches, 149 yards (8.3)<br>Fred Brown (WR): 9 targets, 4 catches, 55 yards (6.1), 1 TD<br>Brandon Holloway (RB): 8 targets, 5 catches, 37 yards (4.6)<br>Donald Gray (WR): 6 targets, 4 catches, 85 yards (14.2)</p>
<p>MSU goes from pass-crazy to run-heavy on passing downs. The Bulldogs run almost as frequently on PDs (37%) as on SDs. And a lot of it stems from trusting Dak. You see above that guys like Wilson, Ross, and Brown are running deeper routes on these downs, and MSU knows that if the pass rush gets to Prescott, that doesn't mean Prescott is going down. He's big, and he escapes the pocket well, extending plays either until someone gets open or until he finds a path downfield with his legs.</p>
<p>The Mississippi State offense isn't amazing, but it keeps you off-balance. Prescott doesn't make many mistakes, and the Bulldogs typically create good field position for their defense. And against an opponent like Missouri, with an offense desperate for great field position and/or scoring help, a lack of mistakes is a good asset.</p>
<h3>When Mizzou has the ball...</h3>
<h4>Standard Downs</h4>
<table border="1">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center"><b></b></td>
<td colspan="2" align="center"><b>Mizzou Offense</b></td>
<td colspan="2" align="center"><b>MSU Defense</b></td>
<td align="center"><b></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center"><b></b></td>
<td align="center"><b>Avg.</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>Rk</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>Avg.</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>Rk</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>Edge</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Standard Downs S&P+</b></td>
<td align="center">78.1</td>
<td align="center">125</td>
<td align="center">99.0</td>
<td align="center">67</td>
<td align="center">MSU big</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b>Standard Downs Success Rate</b></td>
<td align="center">35.0%</td>
<td align="center">127</td>
<td align="center">50.3%</td>
<td align="center">99</td>
<td align="center">MSU</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b>Standard Downs IsoPPP</b></td>
<td align="center">1.06</td>
<td align="center">80</td>
<td align="center">1.00</td>
<td align="center">31</td>
<td align="center">MSU</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left;">SD Line Yards per Carry</td>
<td align="center">2.09</td>
<td align="center">126</td>
<td align="center">2.93</td>
<td align="center">78</td>
<td align="center">MSU</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left;">SD Sack Rate</td>
<td align="center">6.9%</td>
<td align="center">101</td>
<td align="center">6.0%</td>
<td align="center">42</td>
<td align="center">MSU big</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><b>Opportunity No. 3: If you're ever going to find some efficiency...</b> Despite Manny Diaz's preferences, MSU is more bend-don't-break than all-out-attack this year. The Bulldogs prevent big plays but allow a pretty high success rate. Now, this only means so much against Missouri, the second-least efficient offense in the country on passing downs. But if the Tigers used the bye week to get their act together to some degree, then the Bulldogs might be accommodating. In theory, a mediocre offensive line (something to shoot for) could open holes for Russell Hansbrough, and any sort of short success could mean the first play-action opportunities of the season.</p>
<p>Yes, this is pie-in-the-sky optimism. I'm just saying, there will be a chance if Mizzou has its act together for the first time all season.</p>
<p><u>Standard Downs Targets & Catches</u><br>J'Mon Moore (WR): 26 targets, 10 catches, 144 yards (5.5)<br>Nate Brown (WR): 22 targets, 16 catches, 165 yards (7.5), 3 TD<br>Wesley Leftwich (WR): 18 targets, 11 catches, 158 yards (8.8), 1 TD<br>Sean Culkin (TE): 12 targets, 8 catches, 52 yards (4.3)<br>Jason Reese (TE): 11 targets, 4 catches, 28 yards (2.6)<br>Keyon Dilosa (WR): 8 targets, 8 catches, 42 yards (5.3)<br>Ish Witter (RB): 7 targets, 6 catches, 55 yards (7.9)<br>Russell Hansbrough (RB): 6 targets, 4 catches, 12 yards (2.0)</p>
<p>Opponents are running 58% of the time against MSU on standard downs -- basically the middle of the pack. The key here will obviously be getting Russell Hansbrough some room to run.</p>
<p>We've long made fun of the national writers who keep jumping the gun on [Random Blue-Blood Team]'s inevitable rise. Okay ... NOW's the year Nebraska is back. NOW's when USC avoids the brain farts. Etc. (I don't do as much making fun these days because, as it pertains to USC at least, I'm one of those writers jumping the gun.)</p>
<p>I find myself doing the same thing with Hansbrough and Nate Brown. We know what Hansbrough can do, and word is that he's healthier than he's been since the first snap of the season. And when Brown does something good, he looks awesome doing it. You just <i>know</i> he's got a breakout game cued up to release at some point. So ... now? What about now?</p>
<p>Now?</p>
<p>Getting either Hansbrough or Brown going would be huge. Predicting it means predicting something that didn't happen in the first two months of the season, so maybe it's a fool's errand. But you just<i> know</i> it could happen.</p>
<p>...</p>
<p>...</p>
<p>...</p>
<p>Now?</p>
<h4>Passing Downs</h4>
<table border="1">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center"><b></b></td>
<td colspan="2" align="center"><b>Mizzou Offense</b></td>
<td colspan="2" align="center"><b>MSU Defense</b></td>
<td align="center"><b></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center"><b></b></td>
<td align="center"><b>Avg.</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>Rk</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>Avg.</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>Rk</b></td>
<td align="center"><b>Edge</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Passing Downs S&P+</b></td>
<td align="center">77.5</td>
<td align="center">117</td>
<td align="center">145.8</td>
<td align="center">5</td>
<td align="center">MSU very big</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b>Passing Downs Success Rate</b></td>
<td align="center">23.1%</td>
<td align="center">120</td>
<td align="center">26.0%</td>
<td align="center">28</td>
<td align="center">MSU big</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b>Passing Downs IsoPPP</b></td>
<td align="center">1.67</td>
<td align="center">87</td>
<td align="center">1.43</td>
<td align="center">7</td>
<td align="center">MSU big</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left;">PD Line Yards per Carry</td>
<td align="center">3.54</td>
<td align="center">43</td>
<td align="center">2.17</td>
<td align="center">10</td>
<td align="center">MSU</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left;">PD Sack Rate</td>
<td align="center">7.7%</td>
<td align="center">74</td>
<td align="center">7.8%</td>
<td align="center">51</td>
<td align="center">MSU</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>So ... three "opportunities" is enough, right? I've long called passing downs the play-maker downs ... and Mizzou has no play-makers. So it's hard to find an opportunity on PDs.</p>
<p>Actually, that's not the right tone. Let's try this:</p>
<p><b>Opportunity No. 4: Eventually those deep balls will connect</b>. MSU's pass rush is solid but not spectacular, and Drew Lock might occasionally have some time to go deep. In theory, Mizzou receivers won't continue to dive, almost make the catch, and fail. Eventually they'll land a haymaker or two.</p>
<p><u>Passing Downs Targets & Catches</u><br>J'Mon Moore (WR): 20 targets, 10 catches, 91 yards (4.6), 2 TD<br>Wesley Leftwich (WR): 19 targets, 4 catches, 28 yards (1.5)<br>Nate Brown (WR): 16 targets, 4 catches, 86 yards (5.4), 1 TD<br>Ish Witter (RB): 10 targets, 6 catches, 34 yards (3.4)<br>Jason Reese (TE): 9 targets, 7 catches, 73 yards (8.1)<br>Russell Hansbrough (RB): 8 targets, 7 catches, 45 yards (5.6)<br>Sean Culkin (TE): 7 targets, 6 catches, 65 yards (9.3), 1 TD<br>Emanuel Hall (WR): 6 targets, 2 catches, 19 yards (3.2)</p>
<p>Wes Leftwich and Nate Brown have caught eight of 35 passes on passing downs. EIGHT OF THIRTY-FIVE. The four wideouts listed above have combined for a 33% catch rate but are still only averaging 11 yards per catch. No wonder Drew Lock was going deep a lot against Vandy ... what's the point of doing otherwise? The odds of catching intermediate passes aren't any better, and at least if you accidentally complete a deep ball, it's a 30-yard gain.</p>
<p>Seriously, 8-for-35. There <i>has</i> to be some progression to the mean at some point, right? An offense with talent both proven and theoretical cannot remain this bad for this long. That's what I'm telling myself anyway.</p>
<h3>Five Keys</h3>
<h4>1. The trenches ... always the trenches</h4>
<p>I'll just copy and paste from last week (and the week before, and the week before that).</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Spoiler alert: This is probably going to be the No. 1 key all season. Missouri's offensive line was between bad and terrible for most of four games, and Mizzou had one of the least efficient offenses in the country. ... <span>This key is for both sides of the ball, of course. If Mizzou's defensive line wins its battle, and the Missouri offensive line can either fight to a draw or only occasionally lose, the Tigers might be able to position themselves to win. But this has to be a net win for Mizzou, and preferably a large one.</span></p>
</blockquote>
<p>Yep.</p>
<h4>2. Field position (and turnovers)</h4>
<p>For the same reasons as in previous weeks. Mizzou needs the occasional short field or defensive touchdown (or, hey, maybe a special teams TD, though that feels like far too much to ask for), and as good as this defense has been, it hasn't created many (outside of the Georgia game, anyway). Even with a relative breakout performance, the Mizzou offense isn't suddenly going to be capable of driving 70+ yards four times to win a game. It'll need help ... even more help than the defense has already given it.</p>
<h4>3. Finishing</h4>
<p>And if Missouri gets a short field or manufactures a nice drive ... <i>please, oh please, oh please finish the drive in the damn end zone</i>. Mizzou's red zone execution has been tragic this season. The Tigers probably won't win any game in which that continues to be the trend.</p>
<h4>4. First-and-10</h4>
<p>Mizzou took the first step (a mostly invisible one) toward good offense against Vanderbilt, actually generating a better than 50% success rate on first downs. The problem, of course, was the self-sabotage that usually followed on second-and-short. But until you nail first down, nothing else matters. Second-and-9 with a shaky line and a freshman quarterback is death.</p>
<p>On the flipside, if MSU's short passing game is clicking, and Mizzou cannot leverage the Bulldogs into passing downs, then it's going to be a long evening.</p>
<p>Well, the weather's probably going to make sure it's a long evening regardless. But you know what I mean.</p>
<h4>5. Russell Hansbrough</h4>
<p>He's gotten almost no help from his line, and, with maybe only four games left in his college career, he's scored zero touchdowns and experienced zero breakout games in his senior season. That makes me sad. If Mizzou can somehow get him going, the Tiger D should make sure there's a chance to win this game. But again, that's asking for something that hasn't happened since January 1.</p>
<p>***</p>
<p>The themes here are the same as they've been all year: don't stink on first down. Finish your drives. Figure out the curse someone put on your offensive line two months ago and reverse it. For very obvious reasons, MSU is projected to win and will probably do so.</p>
<p>But Mizzou has been an incredible November team in recent years, and the Tigers still have a chance to flip the narrative on this season. But if they are to do so, it starts tonight.</p>
https://www.rockmnation.com/mizzou-football-2015/2015/11/5/9669130/missouri-mississippi-state-football-preview-statsBill Connelly2015-11-05T04:57:02-06:002015-11-05T04:57:02-06:00Watercooler: Mullen's happy Como experiences
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/mZzpzttQnYe9UMhBphadgn0q-Js=/0x275:2622x2023/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47588633/usa-today-8852694.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Matt Bush-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Here are today's Mizzou GAMEDAY Links.</p> <h3>
<img src="https://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/3376996/6u3PzSW.0.png" alt="Mizzou Tigers pennant" style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"> What's On</h3>
<p>Highlights for a couple of in-state prospects.</p>
<p>McCluer North WR Harry Ballard:</p>
<p><iframe src="//www.hudl.com/embed/athlete/1531338/highlights/307590375" width="600" height="338" frameborder="0"></iframe></p>
<p>CBC RB Trey Bryant:</p>
<p><iframe src="//www.hudl.com/embed/athlete/1757222/highlights/296582382" width="600" height="338" frameborder="0"></iframe></p>
<p>Why are we looking at these? Because...</p>
<blockquote data-partner="tweetdeck" class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">McCluer North WR is being seriously evaluated by Mizzou for an offer and will be at Mississippi St. game tomorrow. <a href="https://t.co/ki56mxfoTO">https://t.co/ki56mxfoTO</a></p>
— Brian Austin (@btaustin) <a href="https://twitter.com/btaustin/status/662123651559354368">November 5, 2015</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
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<p>...and...</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://t.co/TswCj8Rodr">pic.twitter.com/TswCj8Rodr</a></p>
— Tre Bryant (@TreBryant_8) <a href="https://twitter.com/TreBryant_8/status/662086406001418240">November 5, 2015</a>
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<script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
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<p>I kind of doubt Missouri gets involved again with Bryant because unless they are officially counting out Morgan Steward from ever returning (and I don't think they are), they don't need any more RBs.</p>
<p>Ballard, on the other hand? With Thomas Richard transferring, the Tigers might decide to go after another WR in this class, and Ballard, the No. 5 player in the state according to Rivals, could get a serious look. He hasn't received an offer -- this has been the weirdest year yet when it comes to the correlation between Mizzou offers and state rankings, plus grades have been a concern for Ballard in the past and might not be anymore -- because of the numbers crunch but might now. Something to watch.</p>
<p><u>Some more recruiting links<br></u><a target="_blank" href="http://missouri.forums.rivals.com/threads/basketball-recruting-q-a-11-3-15.30425/">PowerMizzou: FOOTBALL RECRUITING - & BASKETBALL RECRUTING Q&A: 11/3/15</a><br><a target="_blank" href="https://missouri.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1821665">PowerMizzou: Bledsoe looking for 'that special feeling'</a></p>
<h3>
<img src="https://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/3376996/6u3PzSW.0.png" alt="Mizzou Tigers pennant" style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"> 15 hours to Mississippi State</h3>
<p>Woohoo! <a href="http://www.wunderground.com/weather-forecast/zmw:65203.1.99999" target="_blank">Weather Underground is now saying it might not rain the entire game now</a>! Only for large chunks of it! That's improvement over yesterday's forecast!</p>
<p>Ugh, tonight is going to be miserable. Here's to hoping the game itself isn't.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.stltoday.com/sports/college/mizzou/eye-on-the-tigers/pinkel-mullen-cross-paths-again/article_02a7f4b7-ffeb-530d-afd3-f3ea97ac273e.html">Post-Dispatch: Pinkel, Mullen cross paths again</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>This is not Mullen’s first visit to Columbia. He was Bowling Green’s quarterbacks coach under Urban Meyer when they spoiled Pinkel’s first game as Mizzou’s head coach in the 2001 season opener. It was Meyer’s first game as a college head coach. A year later, Meyer and Mullen’s team beat the Tigers again in Bowling Green, Ohio. [...]</p>
<p>In March of 2008, Mullen was back in Columbia, this time visiting with Pinkel’s offensive staff to learn about the Tigers’ no-huddle offense. Mullen was Meyer’s offensive coordinator at Florida, heading into his last season with the Gators. In 2009, Mullen would take over at Mississippi State. At the time Dave Christensen was MU’s coordinator with David Yost coaching quarterbacks.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Might be nice for Mullen to have a <i>bad</i> trip to Como for once...</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.stltoday.com/sports/college/mizzou/defending-prescott-no-easy-chore-for-mizzou/article_536f303c-cda3-5b5f-ab83-ad3a8d772afc.html">Post-Dispatch: Defending Prescott no easy chore for Mizzou</a><br><a target="_blank" href="http://www.stltoday.com/sports/college/mizzou/things-to-watch-missouri-vs-mississippi-state/article_e1f2ac50-1a66-5f21-96f1-a031e095c310.html">Post-Dispatch: 5 things to watch: Missouri vs. Mississippi State</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.columbiatribune.com/blogs/behind_the_stripes/on-the-beat-with-the-jackson-clarion-ledger-s-michael/article_4e169088-82c3-11e5-85f9-bf1812dad99b.html">The Trib (David Morrison): On the Beat with...the Jackson Clarion-Ledger's Michael Bonner</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Why has it been such a struggle getting the tailback run game going? Is it just a matter of liking what they have with Prescott better, or have there been efforts to get something more consistent out of the backfield?</b></p>
<p>The deepest position for Mississippi State on the roster is wide receiver. Prescott is obviously the team's best player and one of the best in the SEC. The veteran running backs just haven't shown the burst that's needed to succeed. The young running backs have the talent but aren't comfortable enough yet within the system to warrant meaningful carries. The offensive line is better than it was at the beginning of the year, but still about average. With all those factors, it makes sense for MSU to lean on Prescott and the wideouts.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.columbiatribune.com/blogs/behind_the_stripes/gary-pinkel-on-the-sec-teleconference-mississippi-state-week/article_55071394-8319-11e5-b472-9f28af2a8db2.html">The Trib (David Morrison): Gary Pinkel on the SEC Teleconference...Mississippi State week</a><br><a target="_blank" href="http://www.columbiatribune.com/sports/mu_football/cheadle-rising-the-ranks-among-mu-s-cornerbacks/article_af477198-96e1-5e9f-9539-d32243a96a43.html">The Trib: Cheadle rising the ranks among MU's cornerbacks</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="https://missouri.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1821579">PowerMizzou: Mizzou's Toughest Test</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Prescott cuts an imposing figure when he stands behind center. At 6-foot-2, 230 pounds, he looks more like a player that would have been a linebacker if college football hadn't evolved in the last ten years...thanks in large part to another SEC signal caller. [...]</p>
<p>"I think that Cam Newton kind of changed that for everybody," defensive line coach Craig Kuligowski said. "This big, giant guy and he's hard to tackle. (Prescott) is a physically impressive guy. You don't see him ever getting up from the ground slow. You don't see him getting intimidated by any of the defenses that they play. You don't see him showing any signs of weakness to be honest with you."</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>
<img src="https://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/3376996/6u3PzSW.0.png" alt="Mizzou Tigers pennant" style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"> Sophie looks the part</h3>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://mutigers.com/news/2015/11/4/WBB_1104152421.aspx">MUtigers.com: Cunningham Leads @MizzouWBB Over Southwest Baptist, 96-59</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Sophie Cunningham (Columbia, Mo.) scored 20 points and grabbed five steals in her Mizzou debut to lead the Tigers to a 96-59 exhibition victory over Southwest Baptist on Wednesday evening at Mizzou Arena. Five players scored in double figures and the Tigers dished out 21 total assists.</p>
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<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.columbiatribune.com/sports/mu_basketball/cunningham-scores-in-mu-s-exhibition-win-over-southwest-baptist/article_bd075398-086e-5c1c-b829-f263b19add6f.html?_dc=739212135318.6667">The Trib: Cunningham scores 20 in MU's exhibition win over Southwest Baptist</a></p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sEt_Tz4CAbE" frameborder="0"></iframe></p>
<h3>
<img src="https://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/3376996/6u3PzSW.0.png" alt="Mizzou Tigers pennant" style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"> It'll be the men's turn on Friday</h3>
<p><iframe frameborder="0" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CWY2xBumVOA" height="315" width="560"></iframe></p>
<p><a href="http://www.columbiatribune.com/sports/mu_basketball/vibe-is-more-positive-as-tigers-prepare-for-friday-s/article_c77edc6a-a593-5a5f-b068-648bec0e6853.html" target="_blank">The Trib: Vibe is more positive as Tigers prepare for Friday's exhibition</a></p>
<h3>
<img src="https://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/3376996/6u3PzSW.0.png" alt="Mizzou Tigers pennant" style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"> A dud in Alabama...</h3>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://mutigers.com/news/2015/11/4/SOC_1104150010.aspx">MUtigers.com: @MIzzouSoccer Comeback Falls Short in 2-1 Loss to LSU</a></p>
<h3>
<img src="https://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/3376996/6u3PzSW.0.png" alt="Mizzou Tigers pennant" style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"> ...and in College Station</h3>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://mutigers.com/news/2015/11/4/VB_1104155658.aspx">MUtigers.com: @MizzouVB Drops 3-0 Match At Texas A&M</a></p>
https://www.rockmnation.com/mizzou-news/2015/11/5/9674022/mississippi-state-missouri-football-thursday-night-espn-dan-mullenBill Connelly2015-11-04T13:00:05-06:002015-11-04T13:00:05-06:00Hoops Preview with Rob Fulford
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/z5ca9i6dJvBjqM1gIsp8mR_aKRQ=/0x0:783x522/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47583563/HECKYEAHCONTENT.0.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jack Peglow</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Jack and Sam talk football woes and preview the upcoming basketball season with Assistant Coach Rob Fulford.</p> <p>This week's topics of discussion:</p>
<ul>
<li>Maty Mauk's off-field troubles.</li>
<li>The egregiousness of <span>Kentrell Brothers</span>' absence from the list of Butkus Award semifinalists.</li>
<li>Mizzou v. Mississippi St.
<ul>
<li>How the Tigers can pull of the upset.</li>
<li>Will they, though?</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Previewing the upcoming basketball season with <a href="https://twitter.com/rfulford" target="_blank">Assistant Coach Rob Fulford</a>.</li>
<li>What we're looking for in Missouri's exhibition game against Missouri Western.</li>
</ul>
<p><a style="display:inline-block;overflow:hidden;background:url(https://linkmaker.itunes.apple.com/htmlResources/assets/en_us//images/web/linkmaker/badge_subscribe-lrg.png) no-repeat;width:135px;height:40px;@media only screen{background-image:url(https://linkmaker.itunes.apple.com/htmlResources/assets/en_us//images/web/linkmaker/badge_subscribe-lrg.svg);}" target="itunes_store" href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/rock-m-radio/id924982036?mt=2&uo=4"></a></p>
<p><iframe scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0" width="620" height="85" src="http://rockmradio.podomatic.com/embed/frame/posting/2015-11-04T04_39_40-08_00?json_url=http%3A%2F%2Frockmradio.podomatic.com%2Fentry%2Fembed_params%2F2015-11-04T04_39_40-08_00%3Fcolor%3Df8ae06%26autoPlay%3Dfalse%26facebook%3Dtrue%26height%3D85%26minicast%3Dfalse%26objembed%3D0%26width%3D620&notb=1" id="ei7810748"></iframe></p>
https://www.rockmnation.com/2015/11/4/9670378/rock-m-radio-mizzou-basketball-preview-with-rob-fulfordJack PeglowSam Snelling2015-11-04T04:58:22-06:002015-11-04T04:58:22-06:00Watercooler: Scherer's confidence through the roof
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/fcR8z72CKKX3D_btn_rC_5I1AWQ=/0x79:3199x2212/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47580955/usa-today-8837749.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Here are today's Mizzou Links.</p> <h3>
<img style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;" alt="Mizzou Tigers pennant" src="https://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/3376996/6u3PzSW.0.png"> What's On</h3>
<p>#RallyforRhyan</p>
<p><iframe frameborder="0" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xts8G1ibi0A" height="315" width="560"></iframe></p>
<p><u>2 days to Missouri Western, by the way</u><br><a target="_blank" href="http://www.columbiatribune.com/blogs/courtside_view/anderson-still-encouraged-by-chemistry-and-other-notes/article_dc8865b1-580d-5ab7-a246-a22966a9d11d.html?_dc=348989311372.86127">The Trib (Steve Walentik): Anderson still encouraged by chemistry (and other notes)</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>"I don’t want to knock last year’s guys, but these guys have been very receptive and maybe more fun to coach," Kim Anderson said during his weekly press conference before practice on Tuesday afternoon. "And I think part of that is again, not to knock last year, part of that is it’s my second year, I have a little more comfort level with all of them. I recruited the ones, the new guys, and the old guys I’ve been around now for a year, so we kind of know each other. I think last year we spent a lot of time getting to know each other." [...]</p>
<p>"I think of Wes — Wes is a guy who’s kind of emerged here in the preseason. Terrence is a guy by virtue of his position and his personality, he’s kind of a leader-type guy too. Hopefully, that will continue to grow as the season goes on."</p>
</blockquote>
<p><u>And 0 days to Southwest Baptist<br></u><a href="http://mutigers.com/news/2015/11/4/WBB_1104154631.aspx" target="_blank">MUtigers.com: @MizzouWBB Opens Exhibition Schedule Against Southwest Baptist Wednesday</a></p>
<h3>
<img style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;" alt="Mizzou Tigers pennant" src="https://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/3376996/6u3PzSW.0.png"> 1 day to MSU</h3>
<p><a href="http://www.stltoday.com/sports/columns/ben-frederickson/benfred-butkus-award-wrong-about-mizzou-s-brothers/article_c488bf6b-7f9d-5106-8e0c-db6fc90679c5.html" target="_blank">Post-Dispatch (Ben Frederickson): Butkus Award wrong about Mizzou's Brothers</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>It's OK to admit you weren't watching. Mizzou's offense should come with a barf bag. The Tigers' defense would probably change the channel if it could.</p>
<p>If semifinalists have to be the the best linebacker on a team with an offense good enough to win half of its games, just add that to the award's description.</p>
<p>Until then, the award is for the "best of the best linebackers in America." To say there are 10 better than Brothers right now doesn't compute.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><a href="http://www.stltoday.com/sports/college/mizzou/mizzou-s-scherer-shines-in-teammate-s-shadow/article_f1849df2-790f-5f3a-ae8b-ef64e07e142b.html" target="_blank">Post-Dispatch: Mizzou's Scherer shines in teammate's shadow</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>"Much better. It’s not even close," Scherer said. "You can look at stats … but I feel way more comfortable. I haven’t made the mistakes I’ve made in the past. I’ve done a million times better getting off blockers. My man-to-man defense has really picked up. That was really just a confidence thing for me." [...]</p>
<p>"It’s having more confidence in my athletic ability," he said. "It just comes from practice. It comes from making plays in practice. You line up against a slot receiver who can run a 4.4 (40-yard dash), you sit there and say, ‘(Shoot), this guy’s pretty fast. I better start backing up.’ But in practice you sit there and make contact with a guy who’s fast and realize you can also run with him, you gain a lot of confidence in yourself and it carries over into the game."</p>
</blockquote>
<p><a href="http://www.columbiatribune.com/blogs/tiger_tidings/football-scouting-report-mississippi-state/article_2c6faa35-673f-59b6-90ee-b372312aeff3.html" target="_blank">The Trib: Football scouting report: Mississippi State</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The 6-foot-2, 230-pound [Dak] Prescott drew comparisons to Cam Newton, the former Heisman-winning quarterback at Auburn, from Missouri cornerbacks coach Cornell Ford and defensive line coach Craig Kuligowski. Prescott, like Newton, is a strongly-built dual-threat QB.</p>
<p>Prescott has a 20-8 record in his career as a starter. He needs 65 more yards of total offense to become the 10th player in SEC history to reach 10,000 yards in his career. Prescott has been responsible for 96 TDs in his career, sixth-most in SEC history.</p>
<p>"Dak’s in a league of his own," Missouri safety Ian Simon said Sunday.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>
<img style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;" alt="Mizzou Tigers pennant" src="https://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/3376996/6u3PzSW.0.png"> 26 yards per carry ... just saying</h3>
<p><a href="http://gridironnow.com/missouri-freshman-punter-corey-fatony-has-become-a-star/" target="_blank">Gridiron Now: Missouri freshman punter Corey Fatony has become a star</a></p>
<h3>
<img style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;" alt="Mizzou Tigers pennant" src="https://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/3376996/6u3PzSW.0.png"> Revisiting 2012</h3>
<p><a href="https://missouri.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1821272" target="_blank">PowerMizzou: Writing was on the wall</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>This year's team should be led by the 2011 and 2012 signing class. Except, the 2012 signing class has been whittled down to three offensive players. The 2011 class ranked 48th according to Rivals - the lowest-rated Gary Pinkel class in the Rivals era. These are also the only two years that Missouri signed less than 20 players under Gary Pinkel. Missouri signed just 17 in 2011; six of those transferred or did not enroll.</p>
<p>Out of 31 spots on the current depth chart on offense, only seven are members of the 2011 and 2012 recruiting classes.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>
<img style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;" alt="Mizzou Tigers pennant" src="https://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/3376996/6u3PzSW.0.png"> Big volleyball match this evening</h3>
<p><a href="http://mutigers.com/news/2015/11/3/VB_1103151053.aspx" target="_blank">MUtigers.com: @MizzouVB Travels To Texas A&M For Wednesday Night Matchup</a><br><a href="http://www.columbiatribune.com/blogs/tiger_tidings/volleyball-scouting-report-mu-at-texas-a-m-p-m/article_06f52f21-c09d-51f4-a2c3-2c251a564710.html" target="_blank">The Trib (Blake Toppmeyer): Volleyball scouting report: MU at Texas A&M, 5 p.m. Wednesday</a></p>
<h3>
<img style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;" alt="Mizzou Tigers pennant" src="https://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/3376996/6u3PzSW.0.png"> Even bigger soccer match at noon</h3>
<p><a href="http://mutigers.com/news/2015/11/3/SOC_1103152334.aspx" target="_blank">MUtigers.com: @MizzouSoccer Opens SEC Tournament Action Wednesday</a><br><a href="http://www.columbiatribune.com/sports/mu/mu-soccer-team-enters-sec-tournament-with-a-lot-at/article_f0e1a95e-8bc5-5c51-9544-e25f414b61ec.html" target="_blank">The Trib: MU soccer team enters SEC Tournament with a lot at stake</a><br><a href="http://www.columbiatribune.com/blogs/tiger_tidings/soccer-scouting-report-lsu-vs-mu-noon-wednesday/article_a5e91af9-3c05-591a-b7f4-d92db5d9e94e.html" target="_blank">The Trib (Blake Toppmeyer): Soccer scouting report: LSU vs. MU, noon Wednesday</a></p>
https://www.rockmnation.com/mizzou-news/2015/11/4/9668286/michael-scherer-missouri-linebacker-confidentBill Connelly