On Tuesday, Coach Eli Drinkwitz met with the media to discuss Missouri’s upcoming road contest at Kentucky.
Drinkwitz started by clarifying a comment he made after Saturday’s game. On LSU’s last offensive touchdown, Drinkwitz indicated that it was not the flat defender’s responsibility, but rather, it was on the back end.
He also took a moment to thank the fans for their support on Saturday, stating that Saturday was an example of the culture he hopes to build in Columbia.
Drinkwitz was very complimentary of his team, as he praised their effort and their will, both of which came across on film. However, he also noted an inability to build off momentum.
“Ultimately, it came down to not playing complementary football,” Drinkwitz said.
Drinkwitz had a glowing review of a 5-1 Kentucky team that is coming off its first loss of the season via a thrashing at the hands of top-ranked Georgia. He made special note of the speed Kentucky’s skill players possess. He also highlighted how difficult and multiple returning 2021 Offensive Coordinator Liam Cohen’s scheme can be.
On the defensive side, Drinkwitz had high praise for the Kentucky defensive line that features a dangerous tandem of J.J. Weaver and Deone Walker.
Drinkwitz then fielded a question about Kentucky quarterback Devin Leary, whom he recruited during his time as the offensive coordinator at NC State. He noted he had “a lot of respect for Devin.” He described him as “a competitor” with an “incredible arm and tremendous pocket presence” and the ability to “make any throw on the field at any time.”
He also laid out how hitting the halfway point of the season has given his team clarity on what needs to be corrected. He highlighted four main points of emphasis for the rest of the way: turnover margin, explosive plays, penalties, and 3rd downs.
Drinkwitz touched on injuries as well. Cornerback Ennis Rakestraw’s limited action in the second half against LSU was due to a groin injury, and he will not play on Saturday.
In addition, Cody Schrader played through a quad injury, which Drinkwitz indicated made him “questionable at best” for Saturday.
Mekhi Miller is once again questionable but is “trending in the right direction.”
Drinkwitz was also asked about the late false start penalty against Connor Tollison in relation to the possibility of an uncalled simulated snap count on LSU. Drinkwitz took several deep breaths and, after a minute of deliberation, declined to answer the question.
He argued that his doing so could possibly violate the SEC Rules of Engagement, indicating that he was clearly unhappy with the officiating.
Despite his visible displeasure, he insisted that he and his team moved on. He explained, “We’ve gotta execute better.”
Missouri will enjoy two more days of practice before they make the trip to Lexington ahead of Saturday night’s tilt with Kentucky.