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Missouri Football: 5 bold predictions for the Tigers in 2017

By Eric Quackenbush

COLUMBIA, MO - NOVEMBER 12: Barry Odom head coach of the Missouri Tigers waits to lead his team onto the field for a game against the Vanderbilt Commodores in the second quarter at Memorial Stadium on November 12, 2016 in Columbia, Missouri. (Photo by Ed Zurga/Getty Images)
COLUMBIA, MO - NOVEMBER 12: Barry Odom head coach of the Missouri Tigers waits to lead his team onto the field for a game against the Vanderbilt Commodores in the second quarter at Memorial Stadium on November 12, 2016 in Columbia, Missouri. (Photo by Ed Zurga/Getty Images) /
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ATLANTA, GA – DECEMBER 06: T.J. Yeldon
ATLANTA, GA – DECEMBER 06: T.J. Yeldon /

“The best offense is a strong defense.” I am not big on clichés, but this is one of the few that I believe strikes true. This year, Missouri’s “Achilles” will be its defense, especially the secondary.

This year, the Tigers lost many key players to graduation and the NFL. Defensive end Charles Harris was selected by the Miami Dolphins in the first round of the draft, and defensive backs Aarion Penton and John Gibson graduated.

DeMarkus Acy, Logan Cheadle, and Christian Holmes will work to solidify the defensive secondary for the Tigers this year. Marcell Frazier is also shaping up to be a solid replacement for Harris.

My prediction for the Tigers’ defense this year, is it will be a rough start, but the offense will be strong enough to allow the Tigers to win three of its first four games.

Once the defense gets on its feet, it will keep the Tigers competitive in most games, but will also cost Mizzou against opponents with bigger offensive weapons.

Next: The new look Missouri Tigers

While this isn’t a glowing overture for the defense, I believe that it will cost Missouri at least three losses in 2017. The good news, is the Tigers’ defense will be in good form by midseason, and will finish the season strong, again.

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