Odom, Missouri football staying focused on next contest against Southeast Missouri State


By Matt McFarland
Missouri football isn’t looking past their next opponent- the Southeast Missouri State Redhawks, according to head coach Barry Odom.  At weekly media availability, Odom sung the praises of his FCS opponent- which Missouri faces Saturday at 6:30 on KCOU 88.1FM.
Odom was quick to praise SEMO quarterback Daniel Santacaterina.
“He makes things happen with his arm and his feet,” Odom said.
Indeed, Santacaterina has been impressive for SEMO, with four touchdowns through two games- two of those on the ground and two through the air.  Shutting down the shifty Senior will likely be the most challenging task for the Tiger defense, as he spearheads a dangerous four headed monster in the Redhawks backfield.
Odom also refused to talk about anything other than the game at hand.  When asked a question about his offensive line for the rest of the season, he quickly emphasized he was only focused on this week. Hhe did comment he’d like to see “more of a vertical push upfront” on running plays.
Odom also heaped praise on the linebacking core of the Redhawks, noting their play recognition, especially Zach Hall, and sounded certain that their talent upfront would give his O-line a good test.
Odom also lauded head coach Tom Matukewicz, whom he knows personally. He went so far as to respond to a question on whether FBS teams should be allowed to play FCS teams.
“I know coach will have his boys ready and fiery on Saturday and they’re looking to knock us off.”  Matukewicz looks to build off of SEMO’s 9-4 record last year and get a huge upset and defining win on Saturday.
Odom also seemed confident that the Tigers’ penalty issues would not persist. The team recorded 10 penalties for 100 yards on Saturday.  He said problems were fixed and they would continue improve in their discipline.
As far as injury news, former three-star recruit Chris Mills will be out indefinitely as the Mizzou coaching staff waits for updates on the knee injury, he picked up in the second half against West Virginia.  Odom is optimistic that Mills could come back “stronger than ever ,” noting the cornerbacks progress before the injury.
Edited by Garrett Jones | gcjh23@mail.missouri.edu

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