I live in MO... have a son at Mizzou... and you are still right. USCe was the only good SEC team they have played that was anywhere close to being healthy. Shaw scorched them for over 200 yds in just a tad over a quarter.
UT has seen DL's from Oregon, UF, UGA, USCe, and Bama that were BETTER than Mizzou's.
I like Mizzou for obvious reasons but am a Vol fan first.... They are not up to SEC standards in talent yet. If they win it will be because of their system and coaching... not because any DL they have even remotely approaches Tiny's talent level.
Classy post, sjt. This one and the one below it. Once again, you have proven why you are (IMO) one of the most respected posters on VN. I wish I had your sense of restraint when it was called for.
I'm worried about this game. At Mizzou, and they are going to be "pist" and fired up after the loss to USCe. We're up next, and I think they're going to be looking to make a statement.
They have tall, fast receivers, and that's going to be a problem for us. Our best bet is to try to rattle that young QB into some bad throws.
Their defense is fast and aggressive. Much like Bama did, I expect them to load the box; charge the backfield; and dare Dobbs (I think he starts) to beat them through the air.
This game might come down to talent, depth, and "who can play for 4 quarters", but I'm concerned about the Momentum Monster, which would seem to favor Mizzou in this one.
If the Vols pull this one out, it will be likely be because...as you pointed out...that we have faced far tougher opposition than they have, and maybe that experience carries the day. I sure hope so.
Go Vols.