The 2019 Season and Coaching Changes: A Rock M Nation Perspective
The 2019 Missouri Tigers football season was a tale of two halves. A promising 5-game winning streak gave way to a disheartening 5-game losing streak, ending with a 6-6 record. While the defense ranked among the top 25 nationally, the offense significantly underperformed. Rock M Nation’s Sammy Stava confirms that the defense was indeed the strength of the team.
This performance discrepancy led to the dismissal of head coach Barry Odom and the hiring of Eli Drinkwitz, a Gus Malzahn protégé, while retaining the successful defensive coordinator. Stava believes these administrative decisions were necessary, highlighting the need for an offensive-minded head coach and the importance of maintaining continuity on the defensive side. He points out the return of key defensive coaches like Ryan Walters, Brick Haley, and David Gibbs as positive signs for the future.
Defensive Strengths and Challenges: Insights from Rock M Nation
The 2019 Missouri defense excelled at run-stopping and forcing incomplete passes. However, a weak pass rush and susceptibility to occasional explosive plays were areas of concern. Despite losing key players like Jordan Elliott and DeMarkus Acy, the return of linebacker Nick Bolton and a strong safety duo provides a solid foundation.
Stava emphasizes the potential for the defense to replicate its 2019 success, citing the continuity in coaching staff and the return of experienced players. He highlights the need for defensive lineman Kobie Whiteside to step up and fill the void left by Elliott.
Quarterback Battle and Offensive Playmakers: Rock M Nation’s Analysis
The starting quarterback position remains a key question mark for Missouri. With Taylor Powell’s transfer, the competition is primarily between TCU transfer Shawn Robinson and sophomore Connor Bazelak. Stava suggests that while the official decision is pending, Robinson is the likely starter due to his experience and potential.
Beyond Nick Bolton and Larry Roundtree, Stava highlights Virginia Tech transfer Damon Hazelton as a potential game-changer on offense. Drinkwitz has praised Hazelton’s touchdown-making ability, and his connection with Robinson could be crucial. On defense, safety Tyree Gillespie, a preseason second-team All-SEC selection, is expected to have a significant impact.
Freshmen to Watch and Season Predictions: A Rock M Nation Forecast
Cornerback Ennis Rakestraw, a highly touted recruit who chose Missouri over Texas and Alabama, is generating excitement among Mizzou fans. Listed as a starter on the Week 1 depth chart, Rakestraw’s potential is undeniable.
Stava predicts a 3-7 season for Missouri, acknowledging the team’s challenging schedule. However, he believes the Tigers will show improvement throughout the season and ultimately be better than their record indicates. He forecasts wins against Vanderbilt, Arkansas, and South Carolina, while acknowledging losses to tougher opponents like Alabama, Tennessee, LSU, Georgia, Florida, Kentucky, and Mississippi State.
Conclusion: Rock M Nation’s Take on the Missouri Tigers
Rock M Nation provides a valuable platform for fans and analysts to discuss and dissect all aspects of Missouri Tigers athletics. Through insightful commentary and analysis like Stava’s, Rock M Nation offers a unique perspective on the team’s prospects, challenges, and potential. While the upcoming season presents significant hurdles, the insights from Rock M Nation provide a comprehensive understanding of the state of the Missouri football program.
