Missouri opened strong to start the season against Missouri State, as quarterback Drew Lock connected with Johnathon Johnson on the Tigers’ opening drive.
Tucker McCann missed his first attempt on an extra point, which kept Mizzou one point behind on every score by Missouri State.
So far, the defense looks abysmal, but has shown some points of aggression. JUCO defensive lineman Rashad Brandon got beyond the Bears’ offensive line a few times, putting pressure on quarterback Peyton Husling, and also registered his first sack as a Tiger.
For the defensive secondary, cornerback Logan Cheadle had an interception in the first quarter, and deflected a pass later in the second quarter.
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For the most part, the defensive secondary has allowed the Bears easy access to the end zone, while the defensive front has also struggled defending against the running game.
In this game, there have been 10 lead changes, until later in the first half, when Missouri made two unanswered touchdowns and extended its lead by 13 points.
To finish out the first half, both teams have a combined 888 yards on offense, and a combined 83 points. Lock matched his school record five touchdowns thrown in one game. He will, most likely, break the record he set a year ago against Delaware State.
Running back Damarea Crockett also looks strong, and Lock has connected to a number of receivers. Wideout J’Mon Moore also looks improved from last year. Of course, it’s only the first game of the season.
Next: 5 predictions for Missouri football
The main takeaway from the first half is the offense looks like it’s everything it’s claims to be. The defense belongs on a milk carton, because it’s still missing, and McCann’s miss on an extra point and kickoff out of bounds late in the half haven’t helped Missouri’s cause.