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The Missouri Tigers kick off the 2016 season in Morgantown, West Virginia. Below we share our “three things to watch”. These are things that will be a factor not just in today’s game, but will also show signs of things to come over the course of the season. Let’s begin.
1. How Much Has Drew Lock Improved
Nov 27, 2015; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Missouri Tigers quarterback Drew Lock (3) looks to pass during the second quarter against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
Last season Drew Lock played extremely poorly. He completed just 49 percent of his passes. Also, he threw eight interceptions along with just four touchdowns. Those numbers won’t cut it this year. Lock will have to play a lot better if the Tigers want to make a bowl game this season. We will all get a chance to see how much his offseason work has helped him this Saturday.
2. Who Takes Nate Brown’s Spot?
Oct 3, 2015; Columbia, MO, USA; Missouri Tigers wide receiver Nate Brown (2) catches a pass from Missouri Tigers quarterback Drew Lock (not pictured) to score a touchdown against the South Carolina Gamecocks during the first half at Faurot Field. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Last year Lock’s poor performance was exacerbated by the sub-par play of his receiving corps. Fortunately, Lock’s two favorite targets, J’Mon Moore and Nate Brown are both back. Unfortunately, Brown has a high ankle sprain and will miss six to eight weeks. That leaves a slew of young and unproven receivers to try to fill the void left by Brown’s absence. According to the depth chart released by Barry Odom, Emanuel Hall and Dimetrios Mason will get the first shot at it. We will see how they do.
3. Who Replaces Kentrell Brothers?
Dec 6, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Blake Sims (6) is tackled by Missouri Tigers defensive lineman Markus Golden (33) and linebacker Kentrell Brothers (10) in the third quarter of the 2014 SEC Championship at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Last season Kentrell Brothers was a force in the Missouri linebacker corps. He led the nation with an incredible 152 total tackles. However, he is now a Minnesota Viking. He will be very difficult to replace. Sophomore Joey Burkett is penciled in at Brothers’ weak-side spot. Missouri fans shouldn’t expect him to get 152 tackles this season, but Burkett will still have to face the burden of extremely high expectations. We will see how he handles them starting Saturday.
Conclusion
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