Grading Missouri’s 65-33 win over Memphis and looking ahead to No. 14 Kentucky

Missouri got back in the win column with a blowout victory over Memphis that improved Mizzou to 4-3. The offense continued to function without Nate Brown and Emanuel Hall and the defense forced turnovers and had a pass rush for the first time in a while.

Play of the game

Barry Odom’s decision to go for it on fourth down: It changed the momentum of the game and gave Missouri the chance to seal the victory, which they did. It was a gutsy move by Odom and his players were behind it. A few players after converting, Drew Lock found Albert Okwuegbunam for a 58-yard touchdown.

Grades

Offense — A-: It hit a lull in the second quarter, but overall Lock and Co. were pretty solid. Jalen Knox continues to emerge at wide receiver and the run game had a good day too. Okwuegbunam had three touchdowns and a career-high 159 yards receiving.

Defense — B: Yes they gave up 33 points, but the secondary had two interceptions and the line got consistent pressure on the quarterback. The grade isn’t higher because Darrell Henderson only played a few snaps, yet Missouri struggled against the run with his backups.

Special teams — D: They didn’t play a major role in the game but Tucker McCann missed a field goal and an extra point and Corey Fatony had a 16-yard punt. McCann’s misses are more concerning as Missouri prepares for a crucial five-game stretch to end the season.

Next up

As Missouri plays host to No. 14 Kentucky on Saturday, here are two things the Tigers need:

Get another receiver back: Slot receiver Richaud Floyd played for the first time this year Saturday and had three catches for 28 yards. Floyd had been out because of a broken leg. Odom has previously said that Emanuel Hall was close to returning, as is Nate Brown. Getting either back would be huge for the offense going into Kentucky.

Throw it to Kendall Blanton more: Blanton’s role in the offense hasn’t really increased despite the absence of Hall and Brown. Against Memphis, he had three catches for 27 yards. Over his career he’s been a reliable pass-catcher and blocker and can make some tough snags. Why not throw more to the 6-foot-6 Blue Springs South graduate?

Alex Schiffer

Alex Schiffer covers University of Missouri athletics for The Star.