Drinkwitz Points to Special Teams, Fast Start Ahead of SEC Opener at Mississippi State

Missouri's coach credited special teams for the Troy comeback win and said the Tigers must limit explosive plays against the Bulldogs.

Missouri coach Eli Drinkwitz credited his special teams units with turning the tide in the Tigers' comeback win over Troy. After falling behind 10-0, Missouri scored 24 straight points, helped by a DaMarion Fowlkes punt return touchdown, punter Brunno Reus pinning Troy at its own 1-yard line, and two turnovers. Drinkwitz also singled out kicker Blake Craig for his composure.

Despite the victory, Drinkwitz said the Tigers cannot keep starting slowly once SEC play begins. He noted that the offensive line took a step forward against Troy, with strong pass protection and running lanes for Jamal Roberts, who averaged nearly six yards per carry. He highlighted Luke Work as having his best game in a Missouri uniform.

Attention now shifts to Saturday's conference opener at Mississippi State, where Drinkwitz called the Bulldogs offense, led by quarterback Kamario Taylor, one of the most explosive in college football. He said limiting big plays will be the key defensive priority. Defensive captain Nicholas Rodriguez said Missouri also expects wide splits from the Bulldogs and is preparing for a loud atmosphere, with cowbells ringing at practice this week.

Receiver Cayden Lee and Rodriguez also appeared on the show, discussing team culture and their paths to Missouri. Drinkwitz added that the Tigers want to get running back Xai'Shaun Edwards more touches, with freshman Preston Hatfield another option, as Missouri heads into a conference slate he described as unusually difficult.