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3 additions to Mizzou's defense who have shined early in the season

Through two games, the Mizzou defense has not declined from last season as it was expected to do. These three players have been the most impactful and impressive across the first three weeks of the season.

By Charley Duffin

Mizzou defensive backs Toriano Pride Jr. (2), and Daylan Carnell (13) celebrate on their way to the endzone in a game against the Murray State Racers last month.
Mizzou defensive backs Toriano Pride Jr. (2), and Daylan Carnell (13) celebrate on their way to the endzone in a game against the Murray State Racers last month. / Denny Medley-Imagn Images
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After nearly half of the defensive starters, along with several other key contributors, left Mizzou following last season, many expected the defense to struggle this year. However, the unit has been nothing short of fantastic. Not only is the star power evident, but the depth is impressive at every level of the defense. While many players deserve recognition for their contributions, here are three that have stood out.

1. Chris McClellan, Defensive Tackle

Chris McClellan
Florida Gators defensive lineman Chris McClellan (7) celebrates a sack during the second half during the Florida Gators Orange and Blue Spring Game at Steve Spurrier Field at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, FL on Thursday, April 13, 2023. [Matt Pendleton/Gainesville Sun] Ncaa Football Florida Gators Orange Blue Spring Game / Matt Pendleton / USA TODAY NETWORK

Throughout his college career, McClellan has shown an impressive ability to rush the passer for a player of his size, using powerful moves to overwhelm offensive linemen. Each year, he’s added multiple sacks and tackles for loss. The junior, who was selected to play in the 2022 All-American game, has already made a quick impact on Mizzou's defense. In just two starts, he has surpassed his tackles for loss total from last season and tied his career high for sacks. He’s recorded 7 tackles, forced a fumble, and notched a pass deflection. It will be fun to watch his continued development throughout the season.

2. Toriano Pride Jr., Cornerback

Toriano Pride Jr.
Aug 29, 2024; Columbia, Missouri, USA; Missouri Tigers cornerback Toriano Pride Jr. (2) celebrates after scoring against the Murray State Racers on a pick six during the first half at Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images / Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Former 4-star defensive back Toriano Pride arrived from Clemson, where he spent two seasons as a rotational piece. Unhappy with his playing time, the St. Louis native decided to return home. Pride possesses all the traits of an NFL-ready cornerback—speed, physicality, and exceptional athleticism. He showcased those skills in his first game as a Tiger, making an incredible play by intercepting Murray State’s quarterback and returning it 25 yards for a touchdown. That play set the tone for the defense in a dominant 51-0 win to open the 2024 season. Pride factors is in as one of three solid defensive backs, so it will be interesting to continue watching his usage the rest of the season.

3. Corey Flagg Jr., Linebacker

Corey Flagg, Al-Jay Henderson
Buffalo v Missouri / Sophia Scheller/GettyImages

Through the first few games of this season, the 21-year-old has already tallied 15 tackles and a sack. Known for his consistency and leadership, Flagg Jr. made a strong impression on the coaching staff during spring practice, earning high praise from defensive coordinator Corey Batoon, who described him as "workman-like" and noted his relentless commitment to improvement. Flagg Jr. is the kind of player who steps up in big moments, and Tiger fans should be excited to have him on the squad.

A great season followed by an even greater offseason is the recipe for success in college football, and Mizzou has nailed both over the past year. They retained key players and were on fire in the transfer portal nationwide. Every gap on the defensive side of the ball was filled this offseason, and with the level of play we're seeing across the board, the sky is the limit for this defense and the Missouri Tigers overall success.

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