The Missouri defense was looking like the 85 Bears out there today (rest in peace, Mike Ditka)

In a game where the Tigers offense struggled at times, the defense led the way, holding the Aggies offense to just 29 yards on 23 carries.

This is the second week in a row that the Missouri defense has held an opposing offense to under 50 yards rushing.

The passing defense was special today as well, holding Marcel Reed to 19-39 for 187 yards and 2 interceptions. Reed picked up a lot of completions on A&M’s last drive, when the game was already out of hand.

Mizzou safety Trajen Greco had a coming-out party, with a crucial pass break-up that led to a pick from Dotson, and a pick of his own after a drop from A&M receiver, Ashton Bethel-Roman.

Defense is special, enough said. Let’s get into our three takeaways:

1. Donta Simpson continues to impress:

Donta Simpson notched another sack today, plus a half, ending the day with 1 1/2 sacks. Simpson had one last game against Florida, and he expanded upon that today.

We’ve seen Mizzou get pressure off the edge with Kitchen, Hopkins, and Smith, so it’s good to see the interior d-line generate pressure as well. Simpson has become one of the best pass rushers on this team and seems to be growing into his role as the season trucks along.

2. Jamal Roberts continues to be elite:

For the second week in a row, Jamal Roberts has eclipsed 200 yards in a game. He’s the first Missouri running back to do this since 2000. Different gravy.

Roberts spent most of the game slowly chipping away at the A&M d-line, three or so yards at a time. That was especially prevalent on the touchdown drive at the end of the 3rd quarter, where Roberts accounted for 58 yards of a 76-yard drive. Roberts then would score a 54-yard touchdown on the next drive.

Heading into the season, it was unclear if Roberts could come close to the production of Ahmad Hardy. Well, he’s essentially matched it.

3. Pass game needs to be better next weekend: I’ll keep it short and sweet; the passing offense left a lot to be desired today. Austin Simmons and company felt out of sync, and the air attack never got it going.

Cayden Lee still had a nice day, with 7 receptions for 94 yards and a TD, but other than that, crickets. Surprisingly, Donovan Olugbode didn’t record a catch today. If Missouri wants to win in Oxford next weekend, improvement is necessary.