Mizzou Football: Five bold predictions for 2017 season

(Photo by Tyler Lecka/Getty Images)

Expect Missouri’s defense to improve

Not many will dispute that most of the Tigers’ struggles last season can be placed at the feet of the defense. Need an example? Look no further than Mizzou losing to Middle Tennessee State despite putting 45 points on the scoreboard.

Not enough? How about losing to Tennessee by 26 points despite the Tigers scoring 37 against the Volunteers?

A large part of Missouri’s success during the late years of the Pinkel era was due to their attacking defense. That changed last season when DeMontie Cross was hired as defensive coordinator. With the coaching change, Cross shifted to more of a read and react defensive arrangement.

A large part of Missouri’s success during the late years of the Pinkel era was due to their attacking defense.

Needless to say, things did not go well. Missouri’s defense was putrid. Odom eventually resorted to calling plays himself on the defensive side of the ball in addition to his head coaching duties.

The Tigers’ best chances for defensive success this season lies with their defensive line. Tackle Marcell Frazier stands to improve upon last season with the change in defensive strategy. In fact, Frazier recorded six and a half sacks over the final three games last season following the change.

Other players on the defensive unit to keep any eye on in 2017 include defensive tackles Terry Beckner and Rashad Brandon as well as cornerbacks DeMarkus Acy and Christian Holmes. The two defensive tackles should make an impact on the line for the Tigers. Both cornerbacks need to step up in 2017 or else the talented crop of SEC quarterback will throw all over Mizzou.