Missouri Football: Halftime notes versus South Carolina
The first half is in the books, as Missouri trails South Carolina, 14-10. The two biggest takeaways are some improvement on defense, and a performance dip on offense.
In the opening quarter, Missouri took the lead, 3-0, as kicker Tucker McCann drilled a field goal, following a missed FG attempt by South Carolina’s kicker.
As expected, the defensive play looked better than it did a week ago. The defensive front has done a pretty good job of containing the Gamecocks’ run game, and limited South Carolina’s passing attack early.
To start the second half, South Carolina unleashed wide receiver Deebo Samuel, who returned a punt for a touchdown, and then scored a touchdown on the ‘Cocks’ ensuing offensive possession.
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The good news is Mizzou’s defense, DeMarkus Acy’s two penalties aside, has performed better, and done a decent job of limiting South Carolina’s offensive break-out plays.
On offense, Missouri has done well with running the ball. Quarterback Drew Lock threw his second pick in two games, but as fast as he had the ball out, it was surprising to see South Carolina’s defensive back snatch the ball for a pick.
Missouri’s receivers have also had a tough time catching Lock’s passes, but I think that’s been more of Lock throwing quick darts, than the receivers dropping passes. On the flip side, the receivers need to acclimate to a quarterback who has grown in a season.
Next: Missouri's running backs are the key
Missouri’s tight ends, coupled with the running backs, have paid dividends for the Tigers on offense. The offensive line has also been playing extremely well. Back to the second half!