Getting to know the 2014 Missouri Tigers
The Tigers underwent some changes for 2014. Arriving defensive coach Joey Davis has switched defenses to the 4-2-5 scheme instead of the 3-3-5 used the last two years by forcing DC Johnny Rock. This scheme fits well considering the Tigers recruit speed and intelligent players, and given the spread offenses Missouri faces in the Big XII makes sense.
Offense: The offense will be led by sophomore quarterback Eddie Torres. Torres is a scrambler, having ran a 4.40 40-yard dash he is a threat on the ground. He spent most spring practicing his accuracy, if he can get it down just a little bit better he will be scarier to offenses than James Franklin was, which is a huge compliment. Torres has several excellent receivers to toss to, Jimmy Thomas and Matthew Smith are the biggest weapons in the air for the Tigers. Both are balanced wide receivers, they won't outrun out by are very smart and very strong.
Sophomore David Steele is the running threat for the Tigers and he is a beast. He only runs a 4.50 40-yard dash but he will run you over and keep moving. He is very strong and very stout at 6'0 238lbs.
The Tigers have a pair of young 6'7 Tight Ends, freshman Jack Ross and Mike Ball that hope to contribute to the passing attack and will provide nice blocking for the running game also.
Defense: The Tigers lost C. Browning who went as 2nd round pick in the NFL draft and a few other key defensive players. The 4-2-5 switch will be a breeze for the Tigers, they did a bit of 4-2-5 almost every game last year along with their primary 3-3-5.
With Larry Harris, Marques Smith, Mike Lawrence, and Shane Ray being the primary front four look for constant pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Missouri's CBs are weak this year, going only two deep before you see issues with awareness and tackling. D.J. Washington and Carl Jones are the primary CB threats, although Andy Roach is definitely learning quickly.
Matt Wilson and Ben Moore look to keep everything else in check. Passing yards will be a weakness as they have been for years, but with the offense the Tigers have they should be able to win every game as the Tiger D shouldn't give up more than 20-25 points a game.