Preview and Prediction: Missouri vs Texas A&M

Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

On Saturday, No. 5 Missouri will be facing No. 21 Texas A&M, which is arguably Missouri’s most important game so far of the season.  A Missouri win brings the Tigers to their first ever SEC Championship Game, and a Missouri loss lands them on the couch watching the South Carolina Gamecocks take their place.

When the Aggies have the ball Missouri must…

-Control the line of scrimmage

-Contain Johnny Manziel

-Limit the Aggies running attack

If Missouri’s D-line can control the line of scrimmage, the Tigers should find themselves in a pretty comfortable position in getting to the SEC Championship.  However, it is imperative that the Tigers defense does not crumble to a team which put up 42 points against Alabama in a 49-42 loss.

When Missouri has the ball they must…

-Spread the ball to its very talented receiving core

-Get the ground game going with Henry Josey

-BE PHYSICAL in the trenches

James Franklin has the opportunity to control the pace of this game.  He must spread the ball to his receivers and prevent takeaways.  The outcome of this game is highly dependent upon James Franklin’s performance.  If he plays well, Missouri will win.  If he doesn’t play so well, Missouri may find themselves watching the SEC Championship rather than playing in the SEC Championship.

Prediction:

Missouri – 31 Texas A&M – 17