Missouri Football Spring Wrap Up

Quick spring summary

The spring practices were closed to the public and media for the most part this year. That meant that spring practice this year answered even fewer questions than the small amount of insight that can be gleaned from an ordinary spring practice season.

The biggest question mark on the minds of Tiger fans is who will be starting at QB. It looks like Sr James Franklin is in position to retain his starting job, but the position will remain open entering fall practice.

The other big story was about what new Offensive Coordinator Josh Henson would bring to the table. It looks like Missouri will be a little more focused on the interior of the formations instead of trying to outrun teams to the sidelines.

Name a few unknown players who could have breakout seasons

He’s not really an “unknown” player, but Jr TB Henry Josey is making his return to the field after what many considered a career-ending knee injury two seasons ago. Josey looked strong on his runs and did not seem to have lost a step.

Sophomore tailback Russel Hansbrough could also surprise some people this season after having a couple good showings at scrimmage this spring.

On the defensive side, keep an eye out for Jr OL Matt Hoch. Hoch had a sack and an interception in the spring game and looks like he could help fill the shoes of Sheldon Richardson.

Position grades 

QB: C+

RB: A-   Crossing the fingers that this group will really excel this year.

WR: B-    Dorial Green-Beckham is the star, but can the others take the pressure off of him?

TE: B

OL: B+   Evan Boehm slides over to center this year.

DL: B   Big shoes to fill, but Michael Sam, Kony Ealy, and Matt Hoch all looked good.

LB: B-

DB: B   Expect more pressing this year.

ST: C-    This could be another “interesting” year with the kicking game.

Are there any 2013 surprises to expect?

I’m really not sure if there are going to be any big surprises from this team. It feels a lot like last year with anything from a 4-8 season to an 8-4 season possible. Everyone will be looking to see what, if any, new focus Josh Henson brings to the offense this year.

QB will play a pivotal role this season and it remains to be seen whether James Franklin can stay healthy and lead the Tigers, or if RsFr Maty Mauk or Jr Corbin Berkstresser will step up and lead the Tigers.

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Nick Witthaus of Tigerboard.com provided the information for our Missouri Football 2013 Spring Wrap Up.  For more Mizzou  football information, commentary and analysis, you can follow Nick on Twitter @thetigerboard.

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