Mizzou Football: Three Things to Watch Vs South Carolina

COLUMBIA, MO - SEPTEMBER 2: Truman the Tiger the Missouri Tigers entertains during a game against the Missouri State Bears at Memorial Stadium on September 2, 2017 in Columbia, Missouri. (Photo by Ed Zurga/Getty Images)
COLUMBIA, MO - SEPTEMBER 2: Truman the Tiger the Missouri Tigers entertains during a game against the Missouri State Bears at Memorial Stadium on September 2, 2017 in Columbia, Missouri. (Photo by Ed Zurga/Getty Images) /
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Missouri State Bears quarterback Peyton Huslig (15) is sacked by Mizzou football defensive linemen Marcell Frazier (16) and Rashad Brandon(13) (Photo by Scott Kane/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Missouri State Bears quarterback Peyton Huslig (15) is sacked by Mizzou football defensive linemen Marcell Frazier (16) and Rashad Brandon(13) (Photo by Scott Kane/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

Missouri’s Defense Desperately Needs to  Improve

As much as the Missouri State game was a showcase for the offense, it was a lowlight for the defense. I mean, the Tigers did give up 353 yards to the Missouri State Bears in a 72 – 43 victory.

It’s true the result of the game was really never in doubt. As such, I’m willing to concede the defense may have backed off during the game due to overconfidence. However, that is not a good look for a Missouri Tigers defense attempting to improve in 2017.

Topping the wish list for any Mizzou football fan this week has to be the hope for some semblance of a pass rush against Carolina.

Mizzou’s defense cannot play as they did last week and win over South Carolina. If the Tigers end up in an offensive shootout this week, don’t expect MU to easily pull away.

For starters, South Carolina is coming a great offensive performance in its own right. Quarterback Jake Bentley passed for 215 yards and three touchdowns last week against the Wolfpack. Not only that, but the Gamecocks’ WR corps showed some serious talent as well.

Topping the wish list for any Mizzou football fan this week has to be the hope for some semblance of a pass rush against Carolina. The only player causing issues for Missouri State with any regularity last week was defensive tackle, Rashad Brandon.

It’s a certainty that Gamecocks coach, Will Muschamp, paid attention to the Tigers’ shortcomings in week one. Not only that, but I’m positive Carolina’s offensive line will be well-coached on what to look for from Mizzou this week.

Hopefully, Barry Odom and defensive coordinator, DeMontie Cross have made adjustments in their own right designed to improve the Tigers defense against Carolina this week.