Missouri defensive end Johnny Walker Jr. (15) celebrates tackling Alabama punt returner Ryan Williams (2) in the first half of a game against Alabama on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024, at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Ala. (CAL TOBIAS/ROCK M NATION)
Mizzou got blasted in Tuscaloosa, but not all of the performances were bad.
Welcome to the MV3, a weekly piece where Rock M Nation’s staff votes on the three most impactful players in Mizzou’s previous game.
There’s no doubt that Mizzou was overmatched in their 34-0 loss to Alabama on Saturday. Even with a healthy Brady Cook or playmakers like Mookie Cooper and Nate Noel, it would’ve taken quite the performance to upset the Crimson Tide.
But while the scoresheet doesn’t look pretty, there are a few performances Mizzou fans can take heart in headed into the second bye week of the season. Let’s review:
1. Johnny Walker, Jr.
Missouri defensive end Johnny Walker Jr. (15) celebrates tackling Alabama punt returner Ryan Williams (2) in the first half of a game against Alabama on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024, at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Ala. (CAL TOBIAS/ROCK M NATION)
If Mizzou fans can take one resolutely positive thing from the 34-0 loss, it would be the play of Johnny Walker, Jr. The captain has had a frustrating year on the stat sheet despite often looking threatening coming off the edge. He made a huge difference in the first half, dusting Kaydn Proctor for his first sack before moving across the line and throwing the right tackle aside (I think it was Wilkin Formby?) for his second. Walker also registered two other tackles on the day. While the defense eventually crumbled after consistent pressure from Alabama, Walker’s early production helped keep the Tigers within shouting distance.
2. Luke Bauer
Will McLelland-Imagn Images
It’s never good when your punter makes it this high up the list, but Mizzou can be thankful they’ve got a good one. Bauer averaged 44.7 yards per kick on the day, beating his season average (thus far) by a few yards. Not only that, he helped Mizzou maintain striking distance in the first half when the game was more about ground control and field position than anything else. Hopefully this is the last time the junior gets this much of a workout.
3. Jamal Roberts
Butch Dill-Imagn Images
One of the bright (?) spots of Nate Noel’s injury has been extended time for Jamal Roberts, the once-heralded local recruit who’s had trouble seeing the field early in his Mizzou career. While he’s earned his reputation as a top pass blocker, Noel’s absence allowed him some extended run on a national stage. Roberts made the most of the opportunity, running for 71 yards on 17 carries, just a smidge behind Carroll for the team lead. He also added 10 yards on a reception and held up well against a ferocious Alabama front.
Others receiving votes: Marvin Burks, Jr., Marcus Carroll, Sterling Webb, press box chicken pot pie
Did we get it right? Or were there other players that you think fought hard in Mizzou’s loss? Let us know in the comments or at Rock M+!
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