Inside the Match-Up: Missouri

Here are, what I believe, some interesting match-ups.

Oklahoma State Offensive Line v. Missouri's D-Line

I think our O-line is one of the most underrated units in America. I give the pokes a huge advantage here. The offensive line has been fantastic all year, giving Robinson basically all the time he wants in the pocket and creating massive openings for Hunter and Toston. With the size and talent in our O-line with Russell Okung, Brady Bond and David Washington, it's likely that no one will touch Robinson all day. I mean come on, they have only allowed 2 sacks all year. 

Oklahoma State's Passing Game v. Missouri's Secondary

Another big advantage here for the Cowboys. Missouri's defense is ranked #115 against the pass which won't help if the Cowboy's decide to unleash Dez Bryant. However, Bryant isn't the only talented receiver for the Cowboys. If Brandon Pettigrew plays, he will be another huge target along with Damian Davis and Bo Bowling. 

Oklahoma State's Rushing Game v. Mizzou's Defense

I'm not really sure what to think of this match-up. It's hard to tell how good Mizzou's run defense really is. Either way, they are facing an extremely talented backfield in Hunter and Toston. The Pokes are ranked 2nd in the nation in rushing with an average of 315 yards per game. If these two are able to produce early in the game, it will be very difficult for the Missouri defense to slow our offense. Robinson will also be involved in the rushing threat if Missouri gives him openings. 

So, I was thinking of who would cover who on Saturday and this is what I came up with. 

Here are my Individual match-ups:

Dez Bryant v. Mizzou Secondary

Dez should have another big game against whoever is covering him. His speed and size give him a big advantage over the 115th ranked Missouri passing defense. Correct me if I'm wrong but I think Missouri corner, Carl Gettis will have the role of covering Dez. If Missouri decides to double cover him, they will leave other receivers open, so it just depends on how Missouri wants to play it. This is Dez's chance to shine on national television and show viewers his ridiculous amounts of talent. 

Jeremy Maclin v. Jacob Lacey

Jeremy Maclin is a very big threat to our defense. With his sensational speed and talent, he is hard to cover for anyone. Jacob Lacey, on the other hand has been a pretty respectable corner all year. He doesn't give up those huge plays; however, he has been the suspect of several penalties this year. Hopefully our D will be able to sustain Maclin as Illinois did (4 catches for 31 yards). Maclin is also an extremely talented punt/kick returner. Our special teams needs to be on their game to make sure he doesn't bust one back for 6.

Chase Coffman v. Parrish Cox/Patrick Lavine

I think Parrish Cox will have the role of covering Chase Coffman for the most part because he has the height-advantage over other OSU corners and safeties. Coffman is a huge target so expect the help from Patrick Lavine or Orie Lemon, especially on 3rd downs. 

Jared Perry v. Ricky Price

If Cox is covering Coffman, Price should have the role of covering Perry. Perry doesn't have the ludicrous speed that Maclin does; however, he still possesses the play-making ability to break one for a big gain. He will probably be in single coverage all game so i'm sure he will receive a lot of attention from Daniel.