Best Case Scenario for Missouri Tigers Football in 2024

Skeeter July 29, 2024

By Skeeter of The Woods, Water, Mizzou Podcast

The 2024 season for the Missouri Tigers football team holds tremendous promise, especially if key aspects of their game continue to develop as they did last season. Here’s a look at the best-case scenario for the Tigers this year through my eyes.

Brady Cook’s Rise
Brady Cook’s growth as a quarterback was a highlight last season, and if he continues on this trajectory, he could become one of the top signal-callers in college football. His ability to command the offense, make precise throws to all areas of the field, and execute under pressure will be crucial. If Cook shines, he will propel both himself and the team into the national spotlight, the SEC Championship game in Atlanta, and a berth in the College Football Playoff.

Dominant Offensive Line
For Cook and the entire offense to succeed, the offensive line needs to be a fortress. The best-case scenario sees the Tigers fielding the most dominant offensive line they’ve had in over a decade. A starting five that consistently keeps Cook upright and opens up massive running lanes will be a cornerstone of offensive success. This line will allow the offense to function at its highest level, both in the passing and running game.

Evolution of the Tight End Role
The integration of tight ends into the offensive scheme is another pivotal factor. Building on their increased role from last season, tight ends will continue to impact the passing game significantly while also bolstering the running game as extensions of the offensive line. Their versatility will add a critical dimension to the offense, creating mismatches and providing reliable options for Cook.

Wide Receiver Corps
The wide receiver room, led by the big three of Luther Burden, Theo Wease Jr., and Mookie Cooper, needs to meet high expectations. In addition to these stars, contributions from Miller, Blood, Johnson, Manning, and others will be essential. This depth ensures that the Tigers’ passing attack remains dynamic and multifaceted, with multiple playmakers capable of having big moments each week.

Rushing Attack
Missouri’s running game has the potential to further cement head coach Eli Drinkwitz’s reputation as an elite offensive mind. Following the leading SEC rushers in 2021 (Tyler Badie) and 2023 (Cody Schrader), the Tigers’ ground game, whether led by a single standout or by a committee, should dominate. A strong running game will enable Missouri to control the clock, sustain drives, and close out games effectively.

Defensive Prowess
On defense, the Tigers aim to surpass their performance from last year under the guidance of new coordinator Corey Batoon. The defensive front will look to dominate opponents, keeping The Death Row moniker going strong. They will cause nightmares for opposing quarterbacks by maintaining consistent pressure and an intimidating presence up front.
The secondary, despite losing key players from last season, is poised to step up. Their ability to either break up passes or intercept them will be crucial. The linebacker room will deliver elite tackling, timely blitzes, and hard-hitting plays, keeping opposing offenses off balance. Together as a unit, they look to give the ball back to our offense with short fields through turnovers or holding field position.

Special Teams Excellence
Special teams play is another critical area. Blake Craig, stepping in for Harrison Mevis, has big shoes to fill, but the expectation is that he will rise to the occasion and begin to carve out his own legacy at Mizzou. As for the punter, the hope is that he will see limited action while consistently pinning opponents deep in their territory when called upon.

Realistic Optimism
With the talent on the roster and the way the schedule aligns, this best-case scenario for the 2024 Missouri Tigers is not that far-fetched. Anything short of making a push for the playoffs would be seen as falling short of their potential in my eyes. This year’s team has the pieces in place to make a historic run, and fans should be excited about the possibilities. I look forward to seeing Faurot Field packed out, hearing the MIZ-ZOU being yelled back and forth, and seeing our Tigers rise to heights we used to dream of. MIZ!