New Additions
With the college football season fast approaching, Missouri football is gearing up for a new era. As Texas and Oklahoma join the Southeastern Conference, the landscape of college football is rapidly evolving, bringing new challenges and opportunities for all teams.
Importance of Transfer Portal Success
In this increasingly competitive environment, effective use of the transfer portal is crucial. Missouri football has been proactive, securing commitments from 15 players for the upcoming season.
Here are three transfers that may have gone unnoticed but could be key to Missouri’s success in the 2024 season, as they aim for a spot in the expanded, 12-team College Football Playoff.
Marcus Bryant, Left Tackle
The success of Missouri’s offense will heavily rely on the performance of their potential new left tackle, Marcus Bryant. Standing at 6 foot 8 and 318 pounds, Bryant was a first-team All-AAC selection last season with SMU. He played a key role in allowing only 16 sacks in 14 games for the Mustangs, ranking 13th in the FBS.
Bryant is expected to protect quarterback Brady Cook’s blind side, filling the shoes of outgoing left tackle Javon Foster, who was a first-team All-SEC selection and a fourth-round NFL Draft pick. Although Bryant still needs to go through his first camp with the Tigers, he is likely to start when the season opens on August 29 against Murray State. His performance will be a significant factor in Missouri’s offensive success.
Marcus Bryant has everything you need in a college LT. He stays composed, doesn’t over-set & can anchor down against the bull rush. QBs across the nation should start lobbying to their coaches now. https://t.co/IEQEMg30L8 pic.twitter.com/Rq1DHzZtS1
— Sean Anderson (@SandersonRadio) February 21, 2024
Zion Young, Defensive End
New defensive coordinator Corey Batoon has specific plans for his edge rushers, with Zion Young expected to play a crucial role. The 6-6, 265-pound transfer from Michigan State has impressed coaches with his potential. Young had 47 tackles and 2.5 sacks in two seasons with the Spartans and is seen as a prototype for what Missouri needs on the defensive line.
Young’s ability to disrupt plays will be vital, especially considering Missouri’s defense made a name for itself by pressuring the quarterback last season. If Young and fellow end Johnny Walker Jr. can effectively play the disruptor role, Missouri’s defense will be well-positioned for success.
Nate Noel, Running Back
While Missouri’s wide receiver room is strong, Nate Noel’s addition to the backfield should not be underestimated. The Appalachian State transfer ran for over 3,000 yards and 18 touchdowns during his college career. His elusiveness and shiftiness impressed the coaching staff during spring practice.
Noel’s ability to provide a change of pace in the run game could be crucial. His big-play potential and elite speed will add a new dynamic to Missouri’s offense, enhancing their red-zone efficiency and overall performance.
Conclusion
Missouri football’s strategic additions via the transfer portal are poised to significantly impact their 2024 season. Marcus Bryant, Zion Young, and Nate Noel are key players who could help propel the Tigers toward their goal of reaching the College Football Playoff.
