Tigers Defense Dominates Opener
The Eli Drinkwitz era at Missouri has been defined by consistent improvement, but Thursday night’s season opener against South Dakota showcased something entirely new: a defense that looked downright dominant. Under the guidance of first-year defensive coordinator Blake Baker, the Tigers set the tone early and never let up, smothering the Coyotes in a 35-10 victory that left no doubt about their defensive prowess.
A Statement from the Start
From the moment the ball was snapped at Faurot Field, it was clear that Missouri’s defense had something to prove. South Dakota’s offense barely had room to breathe, much less move the football. The Tigers swarmed to the ball, tackled with precision, anda rarity in modern footballseemed to enjoy making opposing players miserable.
Missouri held South Dakota to just 194 total yards, including a paltry 72 yards on the ground. In today’s high-flying offensive era, numbers like that are practically from a different age of football.
The Batoon Effect
New defensive coordinator Blake Baker wasted no time making an impact. His aggressive, swarming defensive scheme gave the Coyotes fits all night. Missouri constantly disrupted South Dakota’s backfield, and when they did manage to complete a pass, Tiger defenders closed in on receivers instantly.
“We were flying around, and that’s what we want to do every single game.” – Mizzou Linebacker
Key Defensive Stars Shine Bright
Several players stepped up in a big way for the Tigers:
- Ty’Ron Hopper: The linebacker was a force all over the field, racking up tackles and providing leadership for Missouri’s defensive unit.
- Ennis Rakestraw Jr.: The shutdown cornerback lived up to his high expectations, blanketing receivers and showcasing his elite coverage skills.
- Darius Robinson: The defensive lineman consistently disrupted the backfield, proving why he’s a cornerstone of this front seven.
Turning Stops into Points
It wasn’t just about holding the Coyotes back; Missouri’s defense also set up the offense for success. The Tigers created multiple short-field opportunities, allowing quarterback Brady Cook and the offense to capitalize on South Dakota’s struggles.
Cook, looking sharp and efficient, tossed for 172 yards and a touchdown, while the ground game rumbled for 221 yards. It was a complementary effort, with the defense fueling an offense that never had to press.
What This Means for Mizzou Moving Forward
It’s easy to dismiss a dominant performance in a season opener against an FCS opponent. But for a program looking to break through in the SEC, the manner in which the Tigers won matters. They didn’t just hold South Dakota in check; they overwhelmed them.
Missouri fans have seen glimpses of defensive excellence before, but if this level of play from Blake Baker’s group is sustainable, the Tigers could be a nightmare matchup in the SEC.
A Tougher Test Awaits
Up next? A much tougher challenge lies ahead. With more formidable opponents on Missouri’s schedule, the real tests are coming soon. But if Thursday night was any indication, this Tigers defense is ready to roar.
Final Thoughts
Mizzou’s defense controlled the opener from the first snap to the final whistle. It was a statement win, not just because of the score, but because of the way it was achievedthrough relentless, suffocating defense. If the Tigers can keep this level of play rolling, opposing offenses should brace themselves: the Batoon era has officially begun.
