Missouri's Defense Shares Preseason Thoughts on Coordinator Blake Baker - The Extra Point
Missouri's Defensive Coordinator
The Missouri Tigers' defense is preparing for the upcoming season under the tutelage of first-year defensive coordinator Blake Baker, along with new head coach Eliah Drinkwitz. Baker is looking to make a significant impact on the unit, and he expects his players to be physical and aggressive.
Missouri Defense Expectations
Baker is looking for his defense to be more aggressive and physical than in recent years. He wants his players to be able to put pressure on the quarterback and force turnovers. Baker shared that he has been pleased with his team's effort and attitude so far in fall camp. He believes they have the potential to be a formidable defense.
Starters on Defense
Missouri will have several key players returning on defense this season, including linebackers Nick Bolton and Cale Garrett. Bolton was an All-SEC selection last season, and Garrett is a veteran leader on the defense. The Tigers also have a talented group of defensive backs, led by safeties Joshuah Bledsoe and Tyree Gillespie.
The Tigers will be looking to improve upon a defense that allowed 29.8 points per game last season. Baker's aggressive approach could help the Tigers make a significant improvement in that area.
Challenges for the Defense
The Tigers' defense will face some challenges this season. They will need to replace several key players from last year's team, including defensive end Jordan Elliott and cornerback DeMarkus Acy. The Tigers will also face a challenging schedule, as they will play seven teams that finished in the top 25 last season.
Defensive Goals
Despite the challenges, Baker is confident that his defense can be successful this season. He has set some lofty goals for the unit, including forcing 25 turnovers and holding opponents to fewer than 20 points per game.
In addition to chasing takeaways, the Tigers are looking to make improvements to their performance within the SEC, especially against the pass. They ranked near the bottom of the conference in passing yards allowed last season.
Fresh Faces on the Defense
Missouri fans will see several new faces on the defensive side of the ball this season. Baker has brought in several players via the transfer portal. Seven new players are expected to start on this year's defense, so they will need to come together quickly.
The Tigers have added several talented players who could make an immediate impact on the defense. Safety Jaylon Jones, linebacker Devin Nicholson, and defensive back Martez Manuel were all highly-touted recruits, and they have the potential to be stars at Missouri.
Baker's Coaching Background
Baker has a proven track record of success as a defensive coordinator. He spent the last five seasons at Louisiana-Lafayette, where he helped lead the Ragin' Cajuns to three Sun Belt Conference championships. Baker's defenses have been known for their ability to generate turnovers and score touchdowns.
Conclusion
The Missouri Tigers' defense is poised for a breakout season under the leadership of new defensive coordinator Blake Baker. Baker is a proven winner, and he has the talent in place to make the Tigers' defense one of the best in the SEC.
Missouri will open the season on September 5th against the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs. The Tigers will be looking to start the season with a win and set the tone for a successful 2020 campaign.
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