Mizzou cornerback E.J. Gaines chalked up that lousy first quarter start by the defense to opening game jitters and just not being very familiar with Murray State’s offense. After giving up 186 yards and 14 points, the Tigers held the Racers scoreless and to just 111 offensive yards the rest of the way out.

Gaines, who had two of the team’s three interceptions, spoke earlier about being conditioned and prepared for a Toledo team that likes to run hurry up offense. Gaines assured us the defense is conditioned and will be ready to go if the offense puts together a couple of quick strikes, forcing the defense back on the field with little rest in between series.

This will be a good measuring stick for Mizzou’s defense.  Toledo just played Florida and was held to two field goals and only 55 rushing yards and 155 passing yards.  While it’s true that Toledo had a week to improve from their first game, the Tigers defense will also have tape on the Rockets and should be better prepared to get off to a quicker start.