Eli Drinkwitz had a blast this season coaching alongside good friend and defensive coordinator Blake Baker.

Drinkwitz, at the AFCA convention on Tuesday, discussed what it was like having Baker take the LSU DC opening. At first, Drinkwitz was hurt by the decision, but then was happy for his friend’s new opportunity. The Missouri head coach hopes to have a similar relationship with the next DC.

“I had the most fun I’ve ever had this season because it wasn’t about anything else than loving my players and my staff. And I recently had one of my best friends, Blake (Baker), decided to go take the (defensive coordinator) job at LSU. I wish him well and it’s awesome — and it hurt me deeply on a personal level,” said Drinkwitz. “I woke up the next morning and I said, ‘You know what? I won’t ever do it different.’ I love him. He’s a brother to me. I wish him and his family well, and I’ll go find another one. And when that defensive coordinator comes in, I’m gonna love him the same. Because that’s what it’s about.”

Baker led one of the better defenses in the SEC this season. The Tigers allowed 336.1 yards per game, which ranked 5th in the conference. It’s safe to say that fans and Drinkwitz alike will miss Baker next season. Drinkwitz posted a picture thanking the former DC for all he did in Columbia shortly after the LSU news broke.

“Thank you, Blake for all you did for Missouri football. Your help in all we’ve accomplished cannot be DENIED,” said Drinkwitz in the post. “I enjoyed every minute of our journey together – but it’s time for you to go on a new path- Gods Speed! I wish you well!!”

Missouri had an 11-2 season under Drinkwitz. The Tigers earned a spot in the Cotton Bowl with Ohio State and closed out the year with a 14-3 win over the Buckeyes. It was the 1st bowl win of Drinkwitz’s tenure in Columbia.

Baker joined Missouri as safeties coach in 2022. It didn’t take long for him to be promoted to DC, moving to the position in February of that year. Before he went to Missouri, Baker was the DC at Miami (2019-2020) and Louisiana Tech (2015-2018).

A trio of Tigers earned all-SEC honors under the guidance of Baker. Darius Robinson, Ty’Ron Hopper, and Kris Abrams-Draine were all awarded for the seasons they had on Baker’s defense.

Baker had quite the impact on Missouri.