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Offensive line shortage may cause Mizzou to alter spring game
By Nick Cole
Published:
New Mizzou coach Barry Odom would love to play a full, traditional spring game as a cap to his first spring practice in charge of the Tigers program.
Unfortunately, the numbers may prevent him from doing that.
According to a report from The Kansas City Star’s Tod Palmer, the Tigers are down to eight healthy scholarship offensive lineman, which is not enough to successfully field two separate teams.
“I’d love to line up and play a game, but I don’t know if we’re going to be able to do it or not,” Odom said. “We’ll be able to tell after (Saturday’s scrimmage), I hope. … I wish I had a great answer for you. I’ve got about five different scenarios.”
Presumably, Odom will decide on which of his five scenarios he’ll implement for the Tigers’ April 16 spring game after reviewing the film of Saturday’s scrimmage.
Nate Crawford’s recent surgery leaves Mizzou with just one healthy returning offensive lineman with starting experience– junior Alec Abeln.
In past seasons, Mizzou has used a modified scoring system for spring games under Gary Pinkel.
Palmer reports that Odom will likely use a traditional football scoring system for the game, even if he’s not able to play it as a straight competition due to a lack of linemen.
Nick Cole is a former print journalist with several years of experience covering the SEC. Born and raised in SEC country, he has taken in the game-day experience at all 14 stadiums.
