Missouri Tigers: Good, Bad and Ugly Vs South Carolina
By Ben Almquist
Ugly: Anyone Want To Guard Rico Dowdle?
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The Missouri Tigers have to be frustrated with the fact that running back Rico Dowdle basically had his way with them. The freshman running back has only become a factor in the Carolina offense recently, but Saturday was his best day of the season.
Rico Dowdle ran for 149 yards and a touchdown on 27 carries, good for a 5.5 yards per carry average. He also added 20 yards receiving and a touchdown on just three receptions. At some point you would think the coaches would adjust for him. Of course, that’s difficult when the opponent is also having no problem moving the ball through the air.
The Gamecocks didn’t make their offensive gameplan any kind of a secret. Quarterback Jake Bentley was either giving the ball to Deebo Samuel or Rico Dowdle. The latter was three times as likely to be the one getting the ball. Mizzou should have some defensive coaches who are paid to recognize things like that.
All in all it was just an ugly game for the Missouri Tigers. There were opportunities to jump out on top and take the win. Unfortunately, Mizzou just isn’t a good enough team to take advantage of those opportunities. With Vanderbilt up next, there is still one reasonable chance for the Tigers to try and claim a victory this season. Hopefully they can put together a better showing.