Player Profile: Jeremy Maclin WR Missouri

Pros: Maclin is a game-changer and is much faster than his 4.4 forty shows. He has great acceleration and with his straight line speed, he won’t be caught in the open field. He is a threat receiving, rushing, and returning. When cutting, he loses no speed and can shoot through small creases for big gains. He breaks tackles with a nice spin move and a good stiff arm. He showed nice hands over the middle and often makes catches that look out of his range. Maclin is strong and won’t be brought down by weak arm tackles. He is a team first guy and is dedicated to making plays when his team needs a boost. In a very strong receiver class, Maclin stands out due to his mix of size, speed, and knack for making big plays.

Cons: Maclin is not a great route runner. He did most of his damage when left alone on drags, screens, and quick slants. He is fast but doesn’t create a lot of separation without the ball in his hands. He will struggle in the NFL against physical corners in man and press coverage. He is still raw due to only playing two college seasons. He is not extremely physical and looks to jump out of bounds instead of turning up field for the extra yards. He was not able to show his ability on the deep ball very much due to the offense MU ran and Chase Daniel's inability to throw the deep ball. Ball security and durability are also issues. He missed the entire 2006 season with a torn ACL.

Scouts Take: Maclin was the definition of a game-breaker at Mizzou. Time and time again he turned what looked to be a short gain into a huge play or a touchdown. He should be a top ten pick due to his college production and blazing open field speed. Don’t be surprised if he is selected before Michael Crabtree. He is a reliable receiver with big play potential each time he touches the ball. He is the type of guy that will need the ball at the next level, and one whom opposing defenses must be aware of. Since he can run the long routes, short routes, screens, reverses and handle punts and kicks, he should touch the ball at least six to ten times a game. The two areas Maclin must improve on, can and will be addressed by his NFL coaches. First, he will need to learn to run routes against man coverage. He needs to take advantage of his size and speed against corners that try to jam him at the line. Also, he needs to learn to protect the ball before the hit. Despite those two weaknesses, he should still be a big contributor on offense and in the return game in his rookie season. He should have a long, exciting, and productive career in the NFL. Think of DeSean Jackson or Ted Ginn with more strength.

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Mizzou Media Relations)

Top Questions Heading Into The Draft

Written by Justin Van Fulpen

There are many questions that still need to be answered heading into the 2009 NFL Draft here are just a few.

1. What will the Detroit Lions do at number one?

Many people believe that the Lions will draft quarterback Matthew Stafford from Georgia and other think that offensive tackle Jason Smith of Baylor. The interesting thing that no one has brought up is that both Stafford and Smith are represented by the same agency CAA. So when the rumor came up that the Lions where talking to Smith's agent, no one ever said that this was also Stafford's agency as well, so it is not like the Lions can play Stafford against Smith. The Lions have a personal workout with Stafford on March 31st, they have also schedule to spend more time with quarterback Mark Sanchez of USC at his Pro Day on April 1st. The Lions are not sold on one guy, so nothing has changed since the NFL Combine in Indianapolis. The Lions like five guys, Stafford, Sanchez, Smith, offensive tackle Eugene Monroe of Virginia, and linebacker Aaron Curry of Wake Forest. So what will the Lions do at number one, still no one knows.

2. Where does Michael Crabtree go?

Texas Tech wide receiver Michael Crabtree was everyone's number one overall prospect going into the NFL Combine in Indianapolis and then it was discovered that he had a stress fracture in his foot. The biggest question on Crabtree was his straight line speed, so he then came out and said he would run the 40 before he had surgery on his foot. When it was all said and done he decided to have the surgery and not run the 40. The question is now where does he end up going in the upcoming NFL Draft. Many thought that he would go number four overall to Seattle, but the Seahawks signed TJ Houshmanzada as a free-agent. He should go between number six and number 10 overall. My guess would be the Oakland Raiders at number seven to pair him up with third year quarterback Jamarcus Russell.

3. Who is the number one overall running back in this year’s class?

Talking with different scouts from different teams you get a lot of different opinions on who teams believe is this year’s number one overall running back. Some teams have Ohio State’s Chris Well number one while other have Georgia’s Knowshon Moreno number one and a few teams have UConn’s Donald Brown as their number one overall running back. It looks as if all three will be first round picks and Pittsburgh’s LeSean McCoy will be a high second round pick. I think you will see Chris Well as the running back that gets drafted first out of all the running backs.

4. How many wide receivers will be drafted in the first round?

After last year where there wasn’t any first round wide receivers. This year I think you can see at most seven, but it looks like their will be four that will be drafted in the first round for sure. Michael Crabtree of Texas Tech, Jeremy Maclin of Missouri, Percy Harvin of Florida, and Darrius Heyward-Bey of Maryland will all go in the first round. You could also see Hakeem Nicks of North Carolina, Kenny Britt of Rutgers and Brian Robiskie of Ohio State all get drafted in the first round as well.

As we get closer to the NFL Draft we will be looking at more of the questions for this years draft.

Photo Credit: SEC Sports Media, OSU Athletics

On The Clock: Jacksonville Jaguars

Record: 5-11, 4th In the AFC South
General Manager: Gene Smith, Head Coach: Jack Del Rio (7th Year), Offensive Coordinator: Dirk Koetter (3rd Year), Defensive Coordinator: Mel Tucker (1st Year)

Offense Rankings: No. 20 Overall, No. 24 Scoring, No. 15 Passing, No. 18 Rushing
Defense Rankings: No. 17 Overall, No. 21 Scoring, No. 24 Passing, No. 13 Rushing

Last Five Years: 45-35; Last Playoff Appearance: 2007; Last Playoff Victory: 2007 (31-29 Over the Pittsburgh Steelers)

2008 Draft: (1-8) DE Derrick Harvey, (2-52) WR Quentin Groves, (5-155) LB Thomas Williams, (5-159) CB Trae Williams, (7-213) RB Chauncey Washington

Top Picks Last Five Years:
2008 – (1-8) DE Derrick Harvey, Florida
2007 – (1-21) S Reggie Nelson, Florida
2006 – (1-28) TE Marcedes Lewis, UCLA
2005 – (1-21) WR Matt Jones, Arkansas
2004 – (1-9) WR Reggie Williams

Booms: WR Ernest Wilford (4th Round 2004), K Josh Scobee (5th Round 2004), LB Bobby McCray (7th Round 2004), S Gerald Sensabaugh (5th Round 2005), S Reggie Nelson (1st Round 2007), RB Maurice Jones Drew (2nd Round 2006), LB Justin Durant (2nd Round 2007)

Busts: WR Reggie Williams (1st Round 2004), LB Jorge Cordova (3rd Round 2004), WR Matt Jones (1st Round 2005), OT Khalif Barnes (2nd Round 2005), WR Mike Walker (3rd Round 2007), Trae Williams (5th Round 2008)

Additions:
SS Sean Considine (Free Agent)
OT Tra Thomas (Free Agent)

Subtractions:
OT Khalif Barnes (FA-Oakland)
CB Drayton Florence (Released)
LB Mike Peterson (FA-Atlanta)
WR Jerry Porter (Released)
SS Gerald Sensabaugh (FA-Dallas)
DE Paul Spicer (Released)
RB Fred Taylor (Released)

Keepers:
C Brad Meester
CB Scott Starks
DE James Wyche

2009 Picks:
Round 1, Selection 8
Round 2, Selection 7
Round 3, Selection 8
Round 4, Selection 7
Round 5, Selection 8
Round 6, Selection 7

Team Needs – Players of Interest (Day One):
1. Wide Receiver: Michael Crabtree, Texas Tech; Jeremy Maclin, Missouri; Darrius Hayward-Bey, Maryland; Kenny Britt, Rutgers; Brian Robiskie, Ohio St.; Hakeem Nicks, UNC
2. Defensive Tackle: B.J. Raji, Boston College; Ron Brace, Boston College; Jarron Gilbert, San Jose St.; Sen’Derrick Marks, Auburn
3. Offensive Guard: Duke Robinson, Oklahoma
4. Cornerback: Malcolm Jenkins, Ohio State; Jairus Byrd, Oregon; D.J. Moore, Vanderbilt; Darius Butler, UConn; Sean Smith, Utah
5. Offensive Tackle: Eben Britton, Arizona; William Beatty, UConn; Jamon Meredith, South Carolina
6. Safety: Malcolm Jenkins, Ohio State; Louis Delmas, Western Michigan

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Missouri), SEC Sports Media

Q&A: Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri (Walter Camp)

Missouri All-American wide receiver and all-around playmaker Jeremy Maclin sits down with All-Access Football Radio at the Yale University Commons in New Haven prior to the Walter Camp 42nd Annual National Awards Dinner on January 17, 2009. Maclin followed up his special freshman season with an even better sophomore campaign recording 102 receptions for 1,260 yards and 13 touchdowns through the air. Coupled with his ability as a return man and to run the football, there was no more dangerous player with the ball in hands than this Tiger. Maclin has declared for the NFL draft where he is expected to be a first round pick.


What does it mean to be a Walter Camp All-American?

Maclin: It’s definitely a privilege. Obviously they’re recognizing you for your talents, so I’m happy to be here.

How do you think you developed this year, your second year as a starter?

Maclin: I think personally I had success; I got a lot better as far as becoming a complete receiver. Unfortunately the season didn’t go how we wanted it to, but that’s how it goes sometimes. I think I've definitely developed as a person and as a football player.

What do you think you improved on the most from your first year to your second year as a receiver?

Maclin: Recognizing the defenses as far as a receiver goes. That’s definitely a big key; you have to know how to run a route against a certain coverage and how to beat the guy in front of you.

Do you think Chase Daniel has a chance to play at the next level?

Maclin: I think he has a chance to play at the next level, maybe not right away. But I think him working with guys at the next level, quarterback coaches, they will definitely develop him. You can’t question his competitiveness, he’s definitely a competitor. The guy goes out and competes, so that’s not the question. He may have some minor things he needs to tweak in his throwing motion but I think he will definitely play on Sundays sometime.

So you think he’s definitely a quarterback in terms of intangibles and leadership?

Maclin: Oh yeah, he’s definitely the type of guy you want running your team. He has that linebacker mentality, he’s fearless, he doesn’t care about who he's playing—he’s going to go out there and compete 110 percent every snap. That’s the guy you have to have lead your team.

How about Mr. (Chase) Patton? What kind of football does he throw?

Maclin: He throws the deep ball better than anyone I have ever seen. His biggest thing was confidence. I think he was a four-star coming out of high school, maybe five star. He’s kind of slowly decreased as the years went on, but I think he’s definitely a guy who could surprise a lot of people.

So he’s a guy to keep an eye on?

Maclin: Oh yeah. He could have started for a lot of other teams in the nation, he just had another guy in front of him who was a very good ballplayer.

What do you like to do the most? Run after the catch? Deep routes? Returns?

Maclin: I like it all. I like space, deep route, punt return, kick return, I don’t care. I just like the ball in my hands. I call myself a playmaker, that’s what I like to do, I like to make plays. I like to try and score every time I touch the ball. That’s the kind of mentality I’ve had ever since I was in Pop Warner. Nothing has changed and I just thank the coaches for giving me a chance to do so and to get me to the point where I'm excelling. Hopefully I can continue that to the next level.

What kind of a decision was it to leave Missouri?

Maclin: It's something I thought about at the beginning of the season, but it was obviously a tough one for me. At my press conference I kind of broke down a little bit, it was happy tears and sad tears at the same time because I’m leaving guys I’ve spent the last three years of my life with. They probably know more about me, closer to what my mom knows about me, that’s how much time I spent with those guys. It’s definitely a job; I understand that at the next level it’s really a job, but you spend every moment with these guys. They got your back; you sweat with these guys so leaving that kind of atmosphere can take a toll on you.

Who did you lean on the most when making this decision?

Maclin: I talked to a little bit of everybody; ex-teammates, family, coaching staff. Coach Pinkel made a great point—it all comes down to how you feel and what your heart tells you. I feel like I’m ready for the next level, I feel like I can take that step and he told me if I was his son and was projected to go in the first round he would tell me to go. He knows I’m not going to disappoint, I’m going to work hard and hopefully solidify my spot in the first round.

Did you get a first round grade back from the NFL when you put your paperwork in?

Maclin: Yes, sir.

Was that kind of the difference maker in your decision making?

Maclin: It was crazy because at first I thought that if I get a first round grade then I’m going to the NFL no matter what, but after you look at it, it definitely came down to much more than that. That first round doesn’t mean everything; it came down to my gut feeling and my gut feeling told me to go to the next level.

Do you feel not being able to pick an agent right after you declare for the draft puts you at a disadvantage preparing for the combine compared to the seniors?

Maclin: You can always work out at your school, there’s great places out there like API and Michael Johnson down in Houston and all that stuff. If you think about it you’ve spent three, four years at your university already and I’m pretty sure you’ve gotten bigger, stronger, and faster at the university so obviously the strength coaches know what they’re doing. They know they’re not going to disappoint you, they’re not going to let you down, they’re in it for your best interest. To see you excel at the next level represents the program, so they’re going to do everything they can to get you ready for the combine or pro day to have the best day of your life. That’s how I kind of look at it, they haven’t let me down yet so why shy away from them?

What are your main interests besides football?

Maclin: I collect shoes; I’m a big shoe person. I actually keep my shoes in containers in my closet which is kind of weird. I’m just a big shoe guy.

What’s your favorite brand?

Maclin: I like all of them; shoes, sneakers.

How many Jordan’s do you have?

Maclin: Up in the high 20’s. I’m a big fusion person, those are the forces mixed with the Jordan’s.

How many shoes do you have in your closet?

Maclin: There were 75 in the closet at school and I gave away like 20 last Christmas break and summer. I have like 50 in the closet right now.

Click to Listen to Audio From the Walter Camp Dinner

Photo Credit: Mizzou Media Relations

Pro Day Preview: Wisky, A&M & Mizzou

By ANDREW GARDA

Here are some players to keep an eye on this coming week:

Wisconsin (March 4): P. J. Hill needs to allay some fears caused by his decision not to work out at the NFL Scouting Combine. Hurt or not, he needs to nail this audition if he wants to have a shot at being drafted. It’s not an incredible ‘home run’ running back draft class but there are some good project-type backs. If Hill wants to earn a chance, he’s going to have to have a very good day. Hill surprised many when he checked in at a svelte 222 pounds, now let's see if translates to faster 40-time.

Texas A&M (March 4): Keep an eye on Mike Goodson, a running back who could also play wide receiver. He had a solid Combine, finishing in the top ten in multiple categories. Another good workout could bump him up in the running back rankings.

Missouri (March 5): Some players will work out on the 19th, but the group who could show up on the 5th includes Jeremy Maclin and Chase Daniel. Maclin is hot off a Combine effort-some sites have him among the top three wide receiver prospects-while Daniel has seen his stock fall due to his lack of size and the fact that he worked out of the shotgun quite a bit. A good Pro Day could go a long way for both players, though Daniel needs it more. Chase Coffman, who could not participate in the NFL Scouting Combine due to a leg injury, will not be ready for the first of two Missouri Pro Days. The senior tight end tells the NFL Draft Bible he hopes to be ready for Pro Day No. 2 on the 19th.

We’ll talk about all of these players and many more each week as we move closer to the 2009 NFL Draft.

Photo Credit: Mizzou Media Relations

On Location: Their Personalities – In A Word

By John Sears

A day of interviews for quarterbacks, receivers and running backs. Judging solely on their interview at the combine, here is my one word analysis of their current status:

Wide Receivers:
Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech: Happy-go-lucky
Deon Butler, WR, Penn State: Determined
Darius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland: Ready
Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri: Self-assured
Derrick Williams, WR, Penn State: Relaxed
Jordan Norwood, WR, Penn State: Realistic

Running Backs:
Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia: Humble
Chris “Beanie” Wells, RB, Ohio State: Nervous
P.J. Hill, RB, Wisconsin: Mature
Ian Johnson, RB, Boise State: Chip-on-the-shoulder (out to prove himself)
Javon Ringer, RB, Michigan State: Competitor
LeSean McCoy, RB, Pittsburgh: Brave

Quarterbacks:
Matt Stafford, QB, Georgia: Polished
Chase Daniel, QB, Missouri: Under-valued
Graham Harrell, QB, Texas Tech: Honest
Mark Sanchez, QB, USC: Confident

Stay tuned for more on location from the NFL combine.

RADIO: Player Spotlight: WR Jeremy Maclin, Missouri

Missouri All-American wide receiver and all-around playmaker Jeremy Maclin sits down with All-Access Football Radio at the Yale University Commons in New Haven prior to the Walter Camp 42nd Annual National Awards Diner on January 17, 2009. Maclin followed up his special freshman season with an even better sophomore campaign recording 102 receptions for 1,260 yards and 13 touchdowns through the air. Coupled with his ability as a return man and to run the football, there was no more dangerous player with the ball in hands than this Tiger. Maclin has declared for the NFL draft where he is expected to be a first round pick.

*** CLICK TO LISTEN ***

NFL Draft Bible Player Profile Page

Part VI of a series from the Walter Camp 42nd Annual National Awards Diner.

Part I - Former Penn St. DE Aaron Maybin - Click To Listen
Part II – Former Missouri TE Chase Coffman - Click to Listen
Part III – Former UConn RB Donald Brown - Click to Listen
Part IV - USF DE George Selvie - Click to Listen
Part V – Ryan Stancheck – Click to Listen

Photo Credit: College Press Box, Mizzou Media Relations

Coaches Corner With Dave Christensen

Brought to you by All Access Football Radio Channel, in affiliation with Blog Talk Radio.

** LISTEN NOW **

Coach DAVE CHRISTENSEN is in his first year as headman at the University of Wyoming after orchestrating one of the most explosive attacks as the Offensive Coordinator at Missouri. Coach Christensen talks with CFI Founder and NFL Draft Bible President Daniel Mogollon about his knew job, as well as several of his players at Missouri who are moving on to the NFL -- Jeremy Maclin, Chase Coffman, Chase Daniel and Chase Patton.

Photo Credit: Mizzou Media Relations

LISTEN NOW! CFI Radio - Alamo Bowl

MONDAY - DECEMBER 29, 2008
12:30 PM EASTERN * Bowl Preview Special
30 Minutes

*** Click to Listen ***

CFI Co-Founder DANIEL MOGOLLON & Big Ten Insider JOHN SEARS preview the Alamo Bowl, which pits the surprising Northwestern Wildcats against the Missouri Tigers and their explosive attack. Special guests: Wildcats' HC PAT FITZGERALD. Find out which players to watch and who will win.

Players to Watch - Missouri:

1. WR Jeremy Maclin, Sophomore – No. 9
2. FS William Moore, Senior – No. 1
3. TE Chase Coffman, Senior – No. 45
4. LB Sean Weatherspoon, Junior – No. 12
5. QB Chase Daniel, Senior – No. 10

Players to Watch - Northwestern:

1. QB C.J. Bacher, Senior – No. 18
2. RB Tyrell Sutton, Senior – No. 19
3. DE Corey Wootton, Junior – No. 96
4. DT John Gill, Senior – No. 70
5. S Brendan Smith, Junior – No. 4

Photo Credit: Mizzou Media Relations

Alamo Bowl - Missouri vs. Northwestern

By JOHN SEARS - BIG TEN INSIDER

December 29, 2008 * 8:00 * ESPN
Alamodome * San Antonio, Texas

Missouri certainly expected better results this year with the return of 2007 Heisman finalist quarterback Chase Daniel. Their misfortune this season may simply be a result of their existence in the Big 12, which has yielded four top-13 BCS teams – three of which handed the Tigers loss. Northwestern is a bowl win away from posting their best season ever.

When the ‘Cats Have the Ball

To better understand Northwestern’s success this year, look no further than three-year letterman quarterback C.J. Bacher. Due to his leadership and injuries to the rushing game, the signal caller was vital to the team’s success: in two of the three losses, Bacher combined for one touchdown and four interceptions and was scratched before their final loss (against Ohio State). Bacher demonstrates the ability to command the spread offense and to appropriately audible – eight different receivers have at least 10 receptions this year and eight different receivers have caught a touchdown pass. Distributing the ball evenly is certainly a Northwestern hallmark, but Ross Lane, Eric Peterman and Rasheed Ward led the spread, combining for 151 receptions. A healthy Tyrell Sutton displays the qualities of a quintessential Big Ten spread-offense running back – he’s tough between the tackles, quick enough to bounce runs outside, and has soft hands in the receiving game. If Sutton can get cleared to play, Northwestern may offer an offensive pop Missouri may not be prepared to slow.

When the Tigers Have the Ball

Speaking of commanding quarterbacks, Daniel did nothing but pass for over 4,000 yards and 37 touchdowns. He holds exceptional command of the spread offense and over the past three years may have single-handedly put Mizzou football in the spotlight. Six receivers have grabbed at least 20 balls this year and another impressive receiver trio has emerged -- Daniel’s favorite target, speedy, all-purpose Jeremy Maclin, likely to break 100 receptions (95) is accompanied by tight end Chase Coffman and Tommy Saunders. Together they racked up just under 250 receptions, 3,000 yards and 30 touchdowns. Couple that with eventual 1,000-yard rusher Derrick Washington, who churned out 17 touchdowns and it’s difficult to see how the Tigers failed to outscore everyone.

Final Analysis

Northwestern seems to hold a bend-not-break defensive philosophy – ranked 53rd with 343 yards/game against but 23rd in the FBS in scoring defense (19/game). Further, they led the Big Ten in sacks 33, and were second in red zone defense (77 percent). Northwestern held its own against the elite passers, limiting Curtis Painter (Purdue) and Juice Williams (Illinois) to one touchdown, four interceptions and an average of 243 yards. Conversely, the Tigers faced Williams and surrendered 451 yards and five touchdowns through the air. For Missouri, rushing may be the key to success – first to prevent the Cats’ defense from getting sack-happy and second to keep down Daniel’s interceptions. A lack of quality wins, a back-breaking conference-championship loss and turnovers will not only prevent Missouri from running away with this one, but it will also keep them from winning.

Missouri Tigers (9-4, 5-3)
Pass: Chase Daniel – 4,135 yards, 37 TDs
Run: Derrick Washington – 992 yards, 17 TDs
Catch: Jeremy Maclin – 1,221 yards, 12 TDs

Northwestern Wildcats (9-3, 5-3)
Pass: C.J. Bacher – 2,128 yards, 14 TDs
Run: Tyrell Sutton – 776 yards, 6 TDs
Catch: Eric Peterman – 654 yards, 5 TDs

The CFI Prediction: Northwestern 35, Missouri 28

Photo Credits: Mizzou Media Relations

Heisman Watch: JP Wilson Gets Heisman Consideration

Next Level Scouting, Inc. is reporting that according to an anonymous source that votes for the Heisman Trophy his current Top-5 nominees include Texas Tech quarterback Graham Harrell, Florida quarterback Tim Tebow, Texas quarterback Colt McCoy, Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford and Missouri wide receiver Jeremy Maclin following all of today's games being played.

The voter admitted that although his stats are no where near that of the quarterbacks named that he has an increasing urge to put Alabama quarterback John Parker Wilson into the mix because of his leadership and the fact that he has less-known talent around him than the other QB's mentioned, as well.

Additionally, he explained said that upcoming games between Texas Tech and Oklahoma, as well as Oklahoma vs. Oklahoma State and potential SEC and Big-12 Championship games for many of these players are likely to decide his final Heisman vote.

Photo Credit: Texas Tech Athletics

Game of the Week: Missouri @ Texas

By RALPH MANCINI - CFI SENIOR WRITER

THE 11TH RANKED Missouri Tigers (5-1, 1-1) look to reestablish themselves as one of the nation’s top teams after a devastating 28-23 loss to Oklahoma State. What better way to bounce back than to lock horns with top ranked and unbeaten Texas (6-0, 2-0) only a week after Mack Brown’s boys staged a resounding comeback in last week’s showdown with Oklahoma. This 21st meeting between the two Big 12 powerhouses takes place at Darrell K. Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin. Texas has won five of the six games between both squads since the birth of the Big 12 conference in 1996. One has to go way back to 1896 for the last time Mizzou actually won in Austin.

When the Tigers Have the Ball

SUPER SENIOR Chase Daniel is the signal caller of the Tigers’ quick-strike attack, which ranks third in the nation in total offense (549.7 YPG) despite the fact that it’s only 117th in time of possession (26:01). Generously listed at 6’0”, Daniel has both a strong and accurate arm, which combined with his mobility make him tough to defend. Overall, Daniel has completed 76 percent of his throws for 2,055 yards and 16 touchdowns. His primary targets in the passing game are speedster Jeremy Maclin at wide out and the ridiculously athletic tight end Chase Coffman. Maclin may be the most dangerous receiver in football with the ball in his hands. His ability to make would-be tacklers miss in the open field has led to several catch-and-run scores on offense, as well as a number of highlight-reel plays as a return man. The sophomore is especially lethal on crossing patterns. Coffman’s size (6’6”, 255 lbs.) belies his physical gifts, including his ability to hurdle oncoming defenders. While he may not possess breakaway speed, Coffman has outstanding hands and has often been compared to Todd Heap in the way he can out-jump opponents. Tailback Derrick Washington leads a rushing attack averaging 171.7 yards per game. The 5’11, 220 lb. sophomore has more than made up for the departure of Tony Temple by utilizing a tantalizing cocktail of power, speed and elusiveness in breaking tackles inside and also getting around the edge for big-yardage plays. In addition to averaging 6.8 yards per run, Washington has also scored 11 of Missouri’s 16 touchdowns on the ground. Many questioned the Tiger offensive line going into the season, but the strong play of this unheralded group has allowed Daniel to stay out of harm’s way. This unit is led by senior right tackle Colin Brown, a master at reading defenses, recognizing blitzes and transmitting his knowledge to his fellow linemen. Jeff Wolfert is Missouri’s ultra-reliable kicker with an 82.5 percent success rate on field goals over the past three seasons.

THE TIGERS will be looking to exploit a shaky Texas secondary that surrendered 387 yards passing to Oklahoma last week. The bright side was the Longhorn run defense, which shut down the Sooner ground game (48 yards). Nose tackle Roy Miller is a key cog in this impenetrable wall. Along with effectively holding the point of attack, the 6’1”, 300 lb. Miller can also get into the opponent’s backfield and take down running backs behind the line of scrimmage or pressure quarterbacks. Weakside linebacker Roddrick Muckelroy is the beneficiary of the exceptional play up front, which has helped him become the leading tackler on the squad with 56. His tenacity and determination make him an emotional leader that others feed off of. Defensive end Brian Orakpo is the unit’s top pass rusher. With two sacks in last week’s contest, the fifth-year senior further cemented his status as an unstoppable force that won’t be denied. Under the tutelage of coordinator Will Muschamp, “Rak” has developed a “speed-to-power” move in which he appears to be planning on going around a blocker only to smash into his blocker and drive him back. Strong side linebacker Sergio Kindle is a versatile defender that can wreak havoc by pressuring the quarterback off the edge. Ryan Palmer is a do-it-all corner back.

When the ‘Horns Have the Ball

QUARTERBACK COLT McCoy showed he’s a money player that not only steps up in big games, but also has a knack for bringing his team back from a deficit. The junior field general is a physically strong player that makes sound decisions from the pocket. His improved mobility is helping him do a better job of eluding the pass rush this season. The chemistry between McCoy and wide out Jordan Shipley will be key in this game. Shipley is much more than a reliable possession type—he’s an athletic and decisive runner after the catch and a factor as a kick returner. The fifth-year senior was in rhythm last week and commanded the ball throughout. Tag-team partner Quan Cosby can also be a handful to contain. This former baseball prospect has authored a myriad of acrobatic plays thanks to his superb body control. Cosby and Shipley are both averaging over 80 yards a game with 11 receiving touchdowns between them. Running back Chris Ogbonnaya has morphed into a true difference maker of late by showcasing an impressive mix of power and speed. Ogbonnaya has suddenly become a big-play threat that defenses must account for. The all-purpose back has made three plays of 50 yards or more both as a runner and receiver in his past two games. Guard Cedric Dockery is a physical and athletic presence along the offensive line.

ON DEFENSE, Mizzou’s defensive end combo of Stryker Sulak and Tommy Chavis provide the heat off the edges. In six games, the duo has produced seven sacks and 12.5 tackles for a loss. The 6’2”, 265 lb. Chavis has the speed to knife his way into the opponent’s backfield and force turnovers. Sulak’s non-stop motor also allows him to be the ultimate disruptor and forces the offense into committing costly errors. Defensive tackle Ziggy Hood is a rock on the inside. His aggressiveness and mean streak help make him an impact player that’s always capable of making important stops in crucial moments. The 300-pounder can also bring it as an interior pass rusher with 12.5 career sacks. This formidable cast of defensive players is led by the unit’s ultimate playmaker, Sean Weatherspoon. Whether it’s ripping the ball out of an offensive player’s hands, making clutch fourth quarter interceptions or laying the smackdown on a helpless running back, this weakside linebacker is an omnipresent force who can take it to the house with the ball in his hands. Middle linebacker Brock Christopher is an under-the-radar performer who has improved his lateral movement, which puts him in better position to make tackles. As arguably the top safety in the country, William Moore is the ultimate ballhawk, who possesses great size at 6’1”, 230 lbs. and isn’t shy about getting his nose dirty when it comes to stopping the run. His physical style and ball skills mask the fact that he’s a very disciplined defender who knows his assignments and diligently fills the gaps. Carl Gettis is Mizzou’s top cover corner. The versatile Gettis doesn’t hesitate to deliver a bone-jarring hit when necessary.

Final analysis

EXPECT ANOTHER barnburner between two offenses that should have no problem scoring 30 plus points. In the end, the Orangeblood aerial attack will be too much for a Missouri secondary giving up 271 yards per game. The Tigers won’t have enough to contain both Cosby and Shipley.

Prediction: Texas 38, Missouri 31

Photo Credit: Mizzou Media Relations, University of Texas Athletics

Injuries Sideline Key Players

OHIO STATE RB BEANIE WELLS HEARS POP
An eerie silence descended on Ohio Stadium when Ohio State's Heisman Trophy prospect Chris "Beanie" Wells went down with a foot injury in the third quarter of the second-ranked Buckeyes' 43-0 victory over Youngstown State on Saturday. "First and foremost, you really can't replace Beanie," wide receiver Brian Robiskie said. The star tailback was hurt in the third quarter after taking a handoff from Todd Boeckman on first and goal at the Youngstown State 2. His feet slipped underneath him as he planted to make a cut, with the ball rolling free as he hit the turf. Wells was helped off the field, and later returned to the bench in the fourth quarter wearing a boot on his right foot. "I may have rolled it or planted wrong a play or two before," Wells said through Ohio State spokeswoman Shelly Poe. "Something just didn't feel right. Then I think I felt a pop. But the X-rays are OK, so we'll see how it feels in a day or two." Before the injury, Wells ran for 111 yards, including a 43-yard touchdown run. Boeckman tossed two touchdown passes and freshman quarterback phenom Terrelle Pryor looked solid in his college debut.

GEORGIA DT OWENS LIKELY OUT FOR SEASON
Georgia suffered a potentially serious injury, losing starting defensive tackle Jeff Owens to a right knee injury in the opening quarter. He did not return. Owens' status will be determined by tests, including an MRI, but Richt said it could be a season-ending. "I doubt he'll be playing anytime soon," Richt said. "It was sad and I went in there and saw him at halftime." Owens has not had a redshirt season, so he could return in 2009 if he has to miss the rest of the year. "He'll probably be stronger next year and he'll be in better condition if in fact he has to go through that type of rehab," Richt said. Owens, a senior, started all 13 games last season and had 27 tackles. The loss of Owens cut into Georgia's depth on its defensive front. Backup Kade Weston was held out of the game with a sprained knee.

MISSOURI WR MACLIN SUFFERS ANKLE INJURY
Jeremy Maclin, who finished with 234 all-purpose yards, lost his balance while running a pattern away from the play. He covered his face with a towel while being carted off the field from the Missouri sideline. He returned to the sidelines on crutches and still in uniform, his foot wrapped in ice, but the team said X-rays showed no damage. "It's a scary moment when an impact player like that goes down," said quarterback Chase Daniel, 26-for-45 for 323 yards with three touchdowns and an interception. "He'll be out practicing Tuesday. He's fine." Maclin had a 99-yard kickoff return and 45-yard punt return before leaving in the fourth quarter with a sprained left ankle in No. 6 Missouri's 52-42 victory over No. 20 Illinois on Saturday night.

Photo Credit: SEC Sports Media

CFI RANKINGS: #7 MISSOURI TIGERS

2007 RECORD: 12-2; BIG 12: 7-1
Won Cotton Bowl vs. Arkansas 38-7
LOCATION: Columbia, Missouri
STADIUM: Memorial Stadium (68,349)
HEAD COACH: Gary Pinkel
OVERALL: 122-74-3 (17 seasons)
AT MISSOURI: 49-37 (7 seasons)

No one wanted to play the Tigers in their bowl game last season. Missouri was No. 7 in both human polls and No. 6 in the BCS Standings, but failed to make a BCS Bowl. The Tigers instead saw Kansas—a team Mizzou beat 36-28 to win the Big 12 North—somehow get an invite to one of the coveted contests. It was as if the Tigers were punished for winning their division and having to play the Oklahoma Sooners a second time (an opponent Kansas was able to avoid). Not to take anything away from KU, but Mizzou should have been in one of those games and they let the nation know in the Cotton Bowl. Unfortunately for the Razorbacks, they were in the way.

WHEN THE TIGERS HAVE THE BALL

OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Dave Christenson (8th Season)
OFFENSIVE STARTERS RETURNING: 6
KEY LOSSES: Martin Rucker, Tony Temple, Will Franklin, Adam Spieker, Tyler Luellen

Chase Daniel is the triggerman of the offense that took hold of the Midwest last season to the tune of 12 wins. If you’re casting for a quarterback, Daniel may not be your first choice. However, if your objective is to win football games, then Daniel is your man—he is the best quarterback in a conference stacked with stellar signal callers. Most impressive among Daniel’s across the board, improvement last season was the 4.7 percent jump in his completion percentage from an already solid 63.5 percent. Daniel manages to accomplish that while throwing for 779 more yards—he wasn’t dinking and dunking to increase his percentage. Part of the reason for his increased numbers could have been the addition of freshman sensation WR Jeremy Maclin, an all-purpose maven. Maclin has breakaway speed with ankle-breaking moves in the open field. He’s a guy who needs to touch the football as much as possible…good things will happen. They lose Martin Rucker, but return TE Chase Coffman who could put up the best numbers of any tight end in the nation. When WR Danario Alexander returns from injury it will make them even more explosive. Replacing a left tackle and center in the spread offense is not easy, but do not expect a drop off in their line play, as three starters return and the new additions have experience and promise. The same can be said for Tony Temple’s replacements, with senior Jimmy Jackson providing experience and sophomore Derrick Washington the promise.

TOP PROSPECTS: 1) WR Jeremy Maclin (SO), 2) TE Chase Coffman (SR)

WHEN THE OTHER TEAM HAS THE BALL

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Matt Eberflus (8th Season)
DEFENSIVE STARTERS RETURNING: 9
KEY LOSSES: Lorenzo Williams, Cornelius Brown, Darnell Terrell

The Tigers are not one-dimensional by any means. Mizzou returns three senior starters along the line in DE Stryker Sulak, DE Tommy Chavis and DT Ziggy Hood. Sulak has been the most productive, but expect Hood to have a big senior campaign as well. In addition to the seniors, there are several others expected to contribute. At linebacker, top tackler junior Sean Weatherspoon leads the front seven, with Brock Christopher another solid performer from the second level. Leading the last line of defense is free safety extraordinaire William Moore, a tremendous athlete with the size and speed to do it all. Moore was their second leading tackler—his many stops include seven in the offensive backfield—and his eight interceptions tied for the national lead. Another player to keep a close eye on is sophomore CB Carl Gettis, who made 10 starts as a true freshman. With 10 players back who started in their big Cotton Bowl win, the defense should be able to hold their own.

TOP PROSPECTS: 1) FS William Moore (SR), 2) DT Ziggy Hood (SR)

THE SCHEDULE

The first thing that pops out about the 2008 schedule for the Missouri Tigers is: no Oklahoma. Of course they would sign today for a guarantee to face the Sooners this season because in order to play OU, the Tigers would be playing in their second straight Big 12 Championship game. But before they can worry about the conference title, Mizzou starts off with “Arch” rival Illinois in what should be a nip-and-tuck battle. Once they do get into conference play, the Tigers face two key games: First, a trip to Austin with the ‘Horns replacing the Sooners on the docket and second, their regular season finale against their other border rival Kansas, in what again could be a battle for the North division.

PIVOTAL POINT

Expectations: There is very little to pick apart in terms of personnel or a weakness that could hold them back, but how will they handle the expectations? Remember, up until last season Pinkel’s Tigers have not handled success very well. In 2006, they started the season 6-0 and reached No. 19 in the polls…only to drop four of the next five and finish the season 8-5. In 2005, the Tigers were 5-2 (one of their losses was to No. 2 Texas) but lost three of their last four regular season games. The last time Missouri started a season ranked? They opened up 2004 ranked No. 18 in the country…and proceeded to lose their second game of the season to Troy 24-14. Mizzou bounced back to get to 4-1…before dropping five consecutive contests and missing a bowl altogether. The talent is there, but it is hard, if not impossible, to predict how a team handles elevated expectations for the first time.

CFI FINAL ANALYSIS

Raised expectations aside, the 2008 Missouri Tigers should be just fine. There is a reason they are a pre-season top ten team—they have the players. With Daniel triggering the offense and Moore roaming in the defensive backfield, the Tigers should turn in another strong season. Will they win 12 games or the Big 12? That’s hard to say, but they will reach double digits in wins for a second straight season, as well as take the North Division. They will probably fall short of capturing the conference title, but a BCS Bowl could be in the cards.

Photo Credit: Mizzou Media Relations

No. 9 Missouri blasts Colorado, 55-10

BOULDER, Colo. (AP) -- Tight end Chase Coffman caught three of Chase Daniel's five touchdown passes as No. 9 Missouri routed Colorado, 55-10, on Saturday night. It was the Tigers' first win in Boulder since 1997.

Jeremy Maclin gained 187 all-purpose yards to break the single-season school record and Missouri (8-1, 4-1) stayed right behind Big 12 North leader Kansas, which is unbeaten in league play and faces Missouri Nov. 24 at Kansas City's Arrowhead Stadium.

The 55 points were the most Colorado had allowed at home since a 59-20 loss to Missouri on Oct. 8, 1983.

Coffman's three TDs gave him 19 for his three-year career, surpassing the school record of 18 set by wide receiver Justin Gage from 1999-2002.

On his second score, Coffman displayed the athleticism that's making NFL scouts drool, hurdling free safety Ryan Walters at the 5-yard line before bullying his way into the end zone to make it 38-10.

Following Colorado quarterback Cody Hawkins' third turnover, Coffman howed soft hands pulling in a 5-yarder that made it 48-10. His first score was a 25-yarder in which he caught the ball over the middle and zigzagged his way through defenders into the end zone.

Daniel was 26-for-44 for 421 yards with one interception.

Maclin, a redshirt freshman, had 108 yards receiving, 12 rushing, 44 yards on kick returns and 23 on punt returns. That gave him 1,682 all-purpose yards in nine games, breaking Devin West's record of 1,621 yards set in 1998.

Defensive tackle George Hypolite intercepted Daniel's first pass, which was deflected, giving the ball to the Buffs offense at the Missouri 11 and setting up Byron Ellis' 2-yard TD run that gave Colorado a 7-0 lead.

Daniel responded with a 72-yard pass to William Franklin, setting up 3-yard touchdown toss to tight end Martin Rucker.

Alonzo Barrett's blocked punt set up the Buffs with another short field and Kevin Eberhart's 24-yard field goal put them on top 10-7.

Then they surrendered 48 unanswered points.

By the time Colorado quarterback Cody Hawkins would complete another pass, the Buffs would be trailing 31-10.

It began to completely unravel when Hawkins was being pursued by two defenders and tried to pass anyway. The ball slipped out of his right hand and Lorenzo Williams recovered for the Tigers.

Three plays later, Daniel hit Maclin with a 46-yard touchdown toss that gave Missouri its first lead at 14-10.

The Buffs went three-and-out on their next four possessions. In between, the Tigers scored on Jeff Wolfert's 27-yard field goal, Tony Temple's 4-yard run and Coffman's 25-yard catch-and-run as the Tigers built a 31-10 halftime lead.

Colorado also went three-and-out on its first two drives after halftime. When Hawkins finally completed a first-down pass, the crowd mockingly cheered but then began heading to the exits on the next play when a pass was tipped by linebacker Sean Weatherspoon and intercepted by free safety William Moore.

Hawkins, the son of Colorado coach Dan Hawkins, was replaced by backup Nick Nelson after completing 12 of 25 passes for 100 yards, no touchdowns and one interception. He fumbled twice.

Courtesy: NCAAFootball.com; Photo Credit: Mizzou Athletics