3 keys to a Mizzou victory over Mississippi State on Saturday

After suffering a heartbreaking loss to South Carolina just a week ago, the Missouri Tigers (7-3) will hit the road once again, this time facing Mississippi State.

The Bulldogs (2-8) have struggled this season, particularly on the defensive side of the ball, allowing no fewer than 30 points to any opponent in conference play.

It will be interesting to see if Mizzou can capitalize on an inferior defense, as the Tigers haven’t won an SEC game by more than a touchdown all season. Here are three keys to a Mizzou victory on Saturday afternoon:

1. Establish the run

Mizzou's rushing attack has been one of the most effective aspects of its offense when healthy. With Nate Noel finally back to 100%, the run game thrived against South Carolina, with Noel finishing with 150 rushing yards and a touchdown. Against a defense that has struggled all season, it will be crucial for Mizzou to establish the run early. The Tigers' offensive line has been a key strength, with right tackle Armand Membou making a noticeable impact. Expect a strong push from the right side of the line, and if Mizzou wants to win on Saturday, establishing the run will be essential.

2. Secondary needs to communicate

Whether Mizzou opts for man or zone defense, one thing is certain: the Tigers must communicate effectively in the secondary. Time and again, Mizzou has been burned by breakdowns in coverage, often leaving receivers wide open downfield, with several of these plays resulting in touchdowns. This vulnerability forces Mizzou to play man coverage against receivers who have exploited their defensive backs all season. While Nick Deloach and Daylan Carnell have shown flashes of potential, they were picked on last week and struggled in critical moments. It will be interesting to see what defensive coordinator Corey Batoon dials up and whether Mizzou's secondary can improve against an inferior opponent.

3. Luther Burden

Mizzou has been waiting all season for Luther Burden to have a signature game, and Saturday’s contest in Starkville offers the perfect opportunity for him to break out. Fresh off an incredible 35-yard touchdown catch against South Carolina, Burden is poised for a big performance. Mississippi State’s secondary has been weak all season, and with Brady Cook finally connecting with Burden more consistently, it will be interesting to see if Mizzou can capitalize. Burden has surpassed 100 yards just once this season, but if he can deliver a complete performance, he should easily eclipse that mark on Saturday, which would signal a strong day for the Tigers.