Ol' Missouri News

Missouri's Keys To The Game

DARIN WERNIG
Ol' Missouri Senior Reporter
dwernig@olmissouri.com
11/30/2007

1. Just Say No To Turnovers

The Tigers can not turn the ball over and expect to win the game, no matter the location. Missouri had four turnovers against OU earlier this season, while the Sooners committed two. The turnovers made the difference in the game. It comes down to making good, smart passes and holding on to the football.

2. Give Bradford A Ten Sack

Missouri's defense was successful at putting pressure on Kansas' Todd Reesing last week. They will need to the same this week to OU quarterback Sam Bradford. The redshirt freshman is trying to becoming the youngest QB to lead a team to a conference title. Bringing heavy blitzes, along with the magnitude of this game might cause Bradford to make some poor decisions.

3. Don't Get Cute

It's not often a team has a chance to play for a national championship, but that's exactly what's on Missouri's plate should they win Saturday. With so much on the line, it's important to stick with what got you to the Big 12 Championship Game and that's not trick plays. Running razzle dazzle plays got MU into trouble in the last Oklahoma game. The Tigers should make sure
this doesn't happen again.

PREDICTION - Missouri 35, Oklahoma 24

Missouri is playing in the Big 12 Championship Game for the very first time, so you'd think the Tigers would at least be a little nervous. But the team is conducting themselves the same now as the first day of practice in August. That says a lot about this team and the approach they take heading into every game. As long as they don't commit turnovers, the Tigers will win the game. I picked Oklahoma to win earlier this season, but I can't do it again. Missouri seems to be on a mission and will not be denied now. Next stop, New Orleans.