It's time for "real" football to begin, fans. We start out this week, prior to college football's kickoff on Thursday night, previewing local teams Missouri, Kansas State and Kansas. Today we focus on the Missouri Tigers.
Season Preview: MISSOURI
Biggest question mark: James Franklin takes over for Blaine Gabbert which means the Tigers’ offensive look will likely be a bit more run-oriented from the QB spot versus pass-oriented. The departure of Tyler Gabbert may actually be a good thing as it eliminated any question as to who would start at quarterback—this is now Franklin’s team. Franklin is talented, had some highlights last season (e.g., the leading rusher against Colorado) but only threw 14 passes in 2010.
Tight End U.: Missouri once again has a stud tight end—this time it’s Michael Egnew who is being picked as another all-conference TE.
Defensive losses: The Tigers lost Aldon Smith but still have talented rushers in Brad Madison and Jacquies Smith.
Best tradition: MU claims to have been the first school to have a Homecoming. This year, the Tigers' Homecoming opponent is Iowa State on October 15—the 100th time the school will celebrate this tradition.
Best pre-game meal: Booches--the best burgers in Columbia.
Schedule: Arizona State will be a very tough road opponent on September 9. In the league, MU faces Oklahoma and Texas A&M on the road. The Tigers also need to be careful with a road visit to Baylor on November 5 prior to returning home to face Texas and then Texas Tech. The annual Border War with Kansas will once again be played in Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, MO to finish the regular season schedule.
Prediction: 8-4 overall, 6-2 in the Big 12
Next up: Look for my season preview of Kansas State in tomorrow's The View from Section 10.
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