3 keys to a Mizzou victory over Texas A&M on Saturday
By Zach Sweet
Saturday marks the toughest challenge of the season for Mizzou football as the Tigers head to College Station for a ranked showdown. Following a Week 1 loss to Notre Dame, the Aggies have bounced back with four straight wins, setting the stage for a highly anticipated matchup.
Traveling to Kyle Field is always a challenge, but Mizzou will be well-rested after a bye last week. The Tigers are off to a 4-0 start for the second straight year, though mistakes in their game against Vanderbilt resulted in a narrow double-overtime win.
With all eyes on this week's matchup, here are three key factors that could lead Mizzou to victory:
1. Containing Marcel Reed
After the Aggies lost starting quarterback Conner Weigman, a new star emerged at Texas A&M: Marcel Reed. Given an opportunity, Reed has taken full advantage, bringing a new energy to the team. Despite head coach Mike Elko stating that Weigman is questionable, it seems unlikely they would move away from Reed, who has been a spark for the Aggies. Reed’s skill set is similar to quarterbacks Thomas Castellanos and Diego Pavia, both of whom Mizzou recently faced. He’s dynamic with his legs, making him tough to contain, especially when he breaks out of the pocket.
The Tigers will have their hands full and will need to use a quarterback spy yet again. After Vanderbilt’s Pavia tore through Mizzou's defense in Week 4, it will be a real test to see what adjustments the Tigers make. If Mizzou can force Reed to stay in the pocket, its chances of leaving College Station with a major win will improve significantly.
2. Winning in the trenches
On the other side of the ball, it will be crucial for Mizzou's offensive line to step up against the toughest defensive front they've faced all year. Texas A&M has a ton of talent on its defensive line, anchored by future NFL draft pick Nic Scourton, who is coming off his best performance of the season with two sacks against Arkansas. The entire Aggies defense will be ready to go, presenting Mizzou with one of its toughest challenges of the season.
In a stadium with over 100,000 fans, communication will be key for the Tigers. Cam'Ron Johnson and Armand Membou will need to play pivotal roles in neutralizing the right side of the line of scrimmage. It’s a tough task, but one that will greatly influence the outcome of the game.
3. Brady Cook
Brady Cook has been the focus of Mizzou football all season, and that won't change come Saturday. Despite Mizzou’s 4-0 start, Cook will be the first to admit that he hasn’t played up to his full potential. We’ve seen what he’s capable of, particularly in last season’s Kansas State game, but he hasn't shown that yet this season. This week's matchup with Texas A&M will largely be decided by Cook's performance. If he can get into a rhythm early and quiet the crowd, Mizzou will be in position for a huge win.
Playing in one of the toughest environments in the country, Cook will have a lot on his shoulders. Getting a few first downs early and utilizing his legs could help open up the offense. The Tigers have struggled in the red zone, settling for field goals too often this season. If they’re going to win, it will come down to Cook making big plays and leading this offense to touchdowns. His ability to execute will be the ultimate key to a Mizzou victory.
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