by MizzMatt 8/1/11
Columbia, MO- This Wednesday, August 3rd, marks one month until the opening day of NCAA football. It also marks the reporting date for Mizzou football players and the return of students to MU campus. Thursday, August 4th marks the start of two-a-day practices for the 2011 squad.
First year starter QB James Franklin leads an experienced offense that had its ups and downs in 2010. The Moe Miracle against SDSU, two blowouts of McNeese State and Miami (OH), an upset of Oklahoma were all on the highlight reel. The veteran defense, led by DE Jacquise Smith and middle linebacker Will Ebner, contributed to the upset of OU with key interceptions and the shut down of Demarco Murray. They also tallied two shutouts on the year, 26-0 over Colorado and 14-0 over Iowa State. They were susceptible to big plays, though and they will be looking to fill in the gap created by Aldon Smith's departure. Coach Gary Pinkel says Sheldon Richardson is eligible and he expects the defensive lineman to be dressed out and practicing with the team on August 4th.
