After nearly a week of fall camp, the Missouri football team has embraced the mantra “iron sharpens iron.” Chris McClellan, a transfer defensive tackle from Florida, noted that adapting to Mizzou’s culture has been a bit of a shock for him, as he’s accustomed to a 3-3-5 defense that emphasizes lateral movement more than what is used at Mizzou. However, he appreciates the team’s effort in helping him enhance his skills. “Our entire offensive line features exceptional players,” McClellan stated. “Anyone can challenge you. Facing one of the top offensive lines in the nation daily helps both sides improve, as we push each other.”
Also in his first year with the Tigers is defensive coordinator Corey Batoon, who is working to fill the gaps left by several starters who were drafted into the NFL. McClellan praised Batoon’s coaching, saying, “He’s done a fantastic job with the defense, and it feels natural to learn from him. The team works well together, and he finds the right roles for each player.”
While the 2023 season centered on the St. Louis trio of quarterback Brady Cook, running back Cody Schrader, and wide receiver Luther Burden III, the spotlight may shift in 2024 to defensive end Williams Nwaneri and offensive linemen Cayden Green and Armand Membou, all graduates of Lee’s Summit North High School. McClellan believes Nwaneri has tremendous potential, with Membou adding, “At first, he was learning, but he clearly has the talent to be a major contributor. His progress will dictate his future in football.”
Membou is excited to play alongside Green again. He noted the camaraderie among the offensive linemen and highlighted Green’s commitment as a motivating factor that makes him a stronger and more dynamic player this season. “When he entered the transfer portal, I couldn’t believe it,” Membou said. “It was surreal, and I was thrilled when he committed here.”
While the offensive line looks solid, questions remain, particularly regarding who will be the starting running back. Membou mentioned that the candidates have been working hard, with the offensive line ready to support whoever secures the starting role. Nate Noel, a transfer from Appalachian State, emphasized that everyone in the running back room is vying for the top position. Coach Eli Drinkwitz has hinted at a running back-by-committee strategy, which Noel believes could benefit the team by distributing the workload and fostering collaboration with varying playing styles. Still, he remarked that every player acts as if they’re at the bottom of the depth chart, driving each other to improve — truly embodying the “iron sharpens iron” philosophy.
For Noel, a significant ankle injury last season motivated him to elevate his performance this year. “I’ve realized the importance of not getting complacent,” Noel said. “No matter what happened last year, the goal is to improve each day. This experience has intensified my work ethic so that I can control what I can to avoid similar setbacks.”
Linebacker Triston Newson is also focused on leading the defense, ensuring that all players remain ready, as he was when he started the last three games of the previous season. “I want the entire team to be in sync,” Newson said. “We must be prepared for our moment, just as I had to be last year.”
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