OFFENSE DEFENSE

Missouri’s 3-5 SEC record was disappointing, but a closer look reveals just how close the Tigers are to cracking the upper echelon of the SEC. Four of the five SEC losses were by one score, the Tigers were the only team to put a scare in Georgia until Ohio State did in the national semifinal, and Missouri shot itself in the foot often with 101 penalties. Brady Cook returns to lead the offense with a valuable year of experience. Luther Burden III is developing into one of the best receivers in the SEC. Theo Wease Jr. transferred in from Oklahoma to boost the receiving corps, but that might not offset the loss of Dominic Lovett to Georgia. Missouri found two offensive line starters through the portal in Cam’Ron Johnson from Houston and Marcellus Johnson from Eastern Michigan. Javon Foster is the best lineman and will garner some All-SEC attention.

The defense will be the strength of this team once again. For the first time in four seasons, the defense will have the same coordinator for successive years. Last year, the Tigers held opponents to 5.3 yards per play and 34.4 percent on third down. Missouri totaled 35 sacks, but 17 of those sacks left with Martez Manuel, Isaiah McGuire and DJ Coleman. However, the linebacker duo of Ty’Ron Hopper and Chad Bailey is among the best in the SEC. They make plays all over the field and can disrupt plays in opponents’ backfields, combining for 22.5 tackles for loss. The secondary is strong with leading tackler Jaylon Carlies at safety and outstanding corners Ennis Rakestraw Jr. and Kris Abrams-Draine. Transfers Sidney Williams from Florida State and Tre’Vez Johnson from Florida will fight for playing time, raising the level of the entire secondary.

DEPTH CHART

Special Teams

Special Teams

2023 Schedule Newcomers

Theo Wease Jr., WR — The transfer from Oklahoma will be an immediate impact player for the Tigers. He caught 39 passes for 378 yards last season, ending the year with three for 123 yards, including a 61-yard touchdown, in the finale vs. Texas Tech.

Brett Norfleet, TE — The two-sport athlete provides an immediate threat at tight end with his size (6’7”, 225) and athleticism. He will also play baseball for the Tigers.

Cam’Ron Johnson and Marcellus Johnson, T — The two Johnsons will provide bookend protection for Brady Cook and generate a capable running game.

SOUTH CAROLINA Columbia, SC

2022 RECORD: 8-5 (4-4)

FOUNDED: 1801

STADIUM: Williams-Brice (80,250)