Eli Drinkwitz missing starters, prepares for 'physical' Kentucky game

When SEC coaches talk about Mark Stoops’ Kentucky football program, the same word is used quite often, “physical.” That was once again the case when Eli Drinkwitz went to the podium Tuesday morning fresh off a difficult loss at home to LSU.

“I think we were all disappointed in the outcome but we were not devastated. We understand that as competitors,” Drinkwitz said. “That’s the thing about this league. Every week you’re gonna go out there and you’re gonna compete you got to lay it on the line and that doesn’t guarantee you the result you want. But you got to get yourself back up.”

Missouri led by two touchdowns early. They appeared to weather a furious rally in the top 25 matchup, retaking the lead with less than six minutes to play, but LSU got the last laugh with a couple of late scores to win 49-39. Just like Kentucky, Saturday’s loss was the first of the season for the Tigers.

“We’re putting that game behind us and we’re moving onto this week, this opportunity,” said the Missouri head football coach. “Got a very difficult challenge on the road versus a top 25 team, Kentucky. As we all know, in the three previous games that I’ve played against them have all become a one possession game.

“It’s always been a very physical contest. The team that seems to rush the ball better seems to be the team that’s going to win the game. Definitely a trench-style game on both sides and we’re going to have to make sure we’re ready for the physical style of play that they have.”

Missouri Starters Dealing with Injuries

If it’s a race to see who can who run the ball more effectively, Kentucky has the upper hand. Led by Ray Davis, the Wildcats rank second in the SEC in yards per carry (5.81). The Missouri offense leans more into the passing game, but they have an explosive running back. Cody Schrader picked up 113 yards and three touchdowns on only 13 carries against LSU, but he did it on a bad quad and is questionable to play this Saturday.

“He’s one of the toughest young men I’ve ever been around… if he’s breathing he’s gonna be trying to play.”

Drinkwitz did not rule out Mizzou’s leading rusher, but he did rule out their top cornerback. Ennis Rakestraw Jr. has been seemingly battling injuries on and off for the last two seasons. Mizzou is going ot give him time to recover and get the other guys ready to receive significant snaps on the road.

“I actually think it’s gonna be best for both of us, our team,” said Drinkwitz. “Now we got to get the other guys ready to play knowing that this week they’re up and there’s not that uncertainty. We’re gonna definitely miss him.”

Wide receiver Mekhi Miller may also miss Saturday’s action, the Tigers’ first road test (outside of Vandy). Miller has tallied five receptions for 65 yards and a touchdown this fall.

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