Another week, another close Missouri game. This time the Tigers pulled out a nail-biter against Vanderbilt. The basis for Mizzou’s success is a strong defense.
By Matt Zemek
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That group is No. 22 in the nation in total defense. In terms of SEC play, only Georgia, Alabama, and Kentucky have a higher ranked total defense. Considering that their opponent this week is South Carolina, expect that defense to have another impressive day.
It will need to.
Force the Gamecocks to rely on Spencer Rattler
South Carolina had to completely rework its offensive scheme because Spencer Rattler was struggling so much. He has not been part of this new system for a long time, and it’s a perfect opportunity for Mizzou to create problems for him. Rattler is at his worst when he is forced to make a lot of throws. Take away South Carolina’s running attack and he’ll have to use his arm more. That will allow the Tiger defense to get a takeaway or two, which – given the limitations of the Missouri offense – will probably be needed to win this game on the road in the Clash of the Columbias.
Don’t let MarShawn Lloyd dictate the game
One problem that Mizzou defense will have to solve is Gamecock running back MarShawn Lloyd. One of the more prolific backs in the nation, Lloyd can make it a long day for the Mizzou defense if the Tigers allow him his current average of 5.5 yards per carry. Mizzou will have to find ways to disguise their alignments and make their plays in one-on-one situations, tackling reliably at the first point of contact and not getting caught out of position. Without Lloyd, Rattler’s options and confidence shrink dramatically.
Clock control isn’t everything in this game, but keeping the ball is
Mizzou loves to control the clock and it’s something the Tigers are adept at doing. They might have dropped a few spots after the win over Vanderbilt, but they’re still No. 6 in the nation in time of possession at nearly 34 minutes per game. South Carolina, however, prefers not to have the ball and is No. 93 in the nation in TOP. That said, Mizzou really has to stop turning the football over; being tied for 110th in the nation in turnover margin isn’t going to win many games no matter how long the Tigers have possession of the football.
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