Alabama’s defensive backs will face their toughest challenge of the season against Missouri’s standout receiving corps, which includes potential NFL draft picks.
The Crimson Tide, ranked No. 15, is looking for its first complete game of the season to get things back on track, especially after struggling offensively.
Alabama’s defense showed promise in its previous game, forcing three turnovers and three sacks, but will need to keep up that momentum against Missouri’s dangerous receivers, including Luther Burden, Theo Wease, Mookie Cooper, and tight end Brett Norfleet.
Burden, a potential first-round NFL draft pick and Biletnikoff Award contender, is Missouri’s top weapon with 37 receptions for 447 yards and four touchdowns, along with contributions in the running game. He poses a versatile threat, moving around the field in various roles to keep defenses guessing.
Wease, another future NFL prospect, leads the Tigers in receiving yards with 463 on 35 receptions, while Norfleet adds another layer to the passing attack as a big-bodied tight end. Alabama’s secondary will benefit from the expected return of starting cornerback Zabien Brown, providing some relief after losing safety Keon Sabb.
The absence of Missouri quarterback Brady Cook, who is dealing with an ankle injury, could work in Alabama’s favor. However, the Tigers have still found success on big plays, even without consistently connecting on deep passes.
Alabama has struggled with tackling in open space, which Missouri’s receivers will likely try to exploit with short, catch-and-run plays.
For Alabama to come out on top, the defense must focus on solid coverage, strong tackling, and keeping track of Burden on every play. If they can execute these fundamentals, they’ll give their offense the chances it needs to succeed and keep the home crowd in Tuscaloosa happy.
