Graham Watson: Greetings from Kansas City!

I'm going to make this a quick chat today so I can get back to Columbia and finish a couple stories. I'll go exactly an hour and then I'll come back later to finish the questions later this evening. I;d suggest coming back tomorrow. It will be done by then.

Busy week. I hope you're all enjoying it.

Let's get started.

Mizzou Andrew: Graham,
I was wondering what freshmen that redshirted this year look to be poised to make an impact next year. We heard about Moye and Keck all camp, not only them but also guys that were good out of state catches like Dominique Hamilton, Elvis Fisher, Trey Hobson, Donte Neal, and Austin Wuebbels? Could any redshirt freshmen fill some of the gaps left by the senior class especially along the offensive line.
Speaking of Keck is he moving back to DE?
Last year's class was pretty solid hopefully those that redshirted will pan out like Washington, Lambert, and Gettis have so far.

Vahe Gregorian: I think Moye and Keck both have chances to be players next season, though I'd doubt either would be starters. There are no senior starters at their positions right now. I don't know about Keck moving back to DE. That's been the rumor, but since he's seen limited practice, I'm not sure. That's something we'll probably talk more about at the end of the season.

I liked what I saw out of Trey Hobson, who will probabky get some time next year with Darnell Terrell graduating. Dominique Hamilton should also get some time.

On the offensive line, there are a couple current redshirt freshmen (will be sophomores next year) that will fill those roles. Tim Barnes will be the starting center.

ChuckMO: Hi Graham,
I look forward to your articles to hold me over until each game. Since this is the game of the century, how about an article everyday? :)
I see our biggest advantage over Kansas in our dual tight ends. What happened to Chase Coffman vs. Kansas State? Was he hurt or did Kansas State somehow take him out of the game?
Thanks for your great coverage. This has been a dream season and I just hope it continues.
MU 42 KU 31

Vahe Gregorian: I hope you've been reading because I think we've been going about three articles a day. It's been busy for all of us here at the P-D.

I agree that the tight ends are a big advantage over any team. chase coffman has been dealing with a sore ankle all season, but that wasn't a factor against Kansas State. Sometimes these guys just don;t get the ball. Sometimes they aren't in Chase Daniel's reads. I'd say the tight ends are going to be used a lot more this week.

Drew (Mizzou Student): Hey Graham,

Finally the big game is here!!!! I'm starting to get a little frustrated at the national media saying that Kansas's defense is better than Mizzou's. Last time I checked, Mizzou held the #1 offense (at the time) in the nation to only 10 points. 10!!! And Kansas was STILL giving up big plays to Oklahoma State after Bowman went down. Add in the fact that Talib and the red-leggers secondary was torched last year by a not-as-deep wide recieving core, I see Missouri picking up the win in KC, but it'll be close. Who do you think has the better defense?

Also, I was a little miffed that West Virginia jumped us in the BCS polls. Do you think that wins over the #2 and a top 15 team (Oklahoma or Texas) will bump the Tigers over the Mountaineers in the coaches and Harris polls?

I'll be at the game on Saturday rooting for my Tigers! MIZ-ZOU RAH!!!

Vahe Gregorian: This is a tough question. I think Kansas has a great defense. I think it's run defense is a little better than its pass defense. Talib is a good player, but he takes risks and can get burned. Chase Daniel has done a great job of putting the ball where only his receivers can get it. If he keeps that up, it's going to be a long day for KU. The key will be how much time Daniel has to throw.

Missouri defense has played well in big games. I know we all want to think it's mature enough to play the same against all opponents, but that's not true. It did not play the same against Iowa State as it did against Nebraska. I think Missouri;s defense steps up in this big game.

If Mizzou beats the No. 2 team in the land, it should be No. 2. That's my opinion.

Drew (Mizzou Student): Another question for you Graham,

Who do you see Talib covering, Maclin or Franklin? He can only cover one, and I think he's overrated anyways, so whoever that is will torch him with double-moves all day. Does Mizzou have a gameplan to take advantage of his overly-aggressive style of play?

Thanks a lot, and see you in Kansas City! MIZ-ZOU RAH!!!!

Vahe Gregorian: I see Talib on Maclin and I think Maclin wants him. He was asked the question on Monday and he was careful about what he said. Maclin relishes man-to-man coverage (i.e. Colorado), and likes being tested. If he's considered Missouri's best receiver, Talib will want him. However, I wouldn't be surprised if the Tigers saw more zone this weekend.

I don't know that Mizzou does anything different against Talib than its done against any other team. As I said before, Talib tries to jump routes, but Daniel has been really good about hitting his guys in stride this season.

Dave Skiles: I have been trying my best to warn you (PD) this was going to happen. "This" being the lack of integrity of W.VA. voting themselves number 1 in the polls and they've finally succeeded in hopping over Mizzou in the BCS. Of course you don't have a problem with this as long as you maintain your integrity by "not" voting Mizzou number one. Do you actually feel better about yourself assisting them in pushing their way past Mizzou? How about Daniels now? Since Dixon is out, and how did you put it, "If Daniels keeps doing what he's been doing I'll vote for him". Well, you actually wrote that last line. Does it make any sense to you? How can he maintain the status quo to get your vote? You need to start representing the paper and the State of Missouri because they've drawn you into the fight. This is not a hate thing towards you. If you look back about 3-4 weeks ago I sent you a personal letter of applause. Now I expect you to get on the lines, start typing and do whatever you have to do to get this accomplished. That is, if you're up to W.VA. standards. If you respond with nothing but excuses it all but over for our hopes of a national championship.

Vahe Gregorian: Hold on. I have to stop laughing. Wait for it... Wait for it... OK. So let me get this straight, it's my fault that Missouri in No. 4 in the BCS? That's awesome.

Well, considering I'm not a coach, I have no control over the votes Mizzou gets in the coaches poll. Also, I don't think West Virginia voted itself first in the coaches poll. West Virginia might not even have a vote. Not all the coaches have a vote. Heck, Steve Spurrier could have voted them first. Who knows?

Missouri and West Virginia were tied in the Harris Poll. I had Missouri third in my Harris Poll, West Virginia fourth. So implying that I helped push West Virginia past Mizzou is the most asinine thing I have ever read. I really thank you for giving me a hearty laugh this morning.

That was good stuff.

As for my Daniel votes? I voted Daniel as a finalist for the Davey and he’s a finalist for the Davey. In the Heisman, I'm undecided. I keep going back and forth over my top three or four players. I'll have a better idea after this weekend.

Oh, and I'm not a mouthpiece for Mizzou and I am in no way obligated to vote Mizzou in anything. Therefore, I don’t need to start representing anyone but myself and my own integrity and not let the ridiculousness of fans like yourself cloud my judgment.

It makes for high comedy though.

Chad in Des Moines: Hey Graham - I believe I heard in one of the post K-State game interviews that they do not have class this week at Mizzou. Does this allow them to have greater organized practice time then they do during a normal school week?

Keep up the great work!!

Vahe Gregorian: Yep. Mizzou players were pretty excited that all they had to concentrate on was football. Some said they even asked their girlfriends to go home for the holiday so they could get extra work done.

I think Mizzou has been doing film study, meetings and such in the morning and practice in the evening. There are NCAA rules about how many hours a team can spend on football, so I'm sure a lot of the non-practice stuff is "voluntary."

Kyle: Dear Kansas,

We hate you.

Sincerely, Missouri

Vahe Gregorian: I was going to say something here, but in the interest of self-preservation...

steve urbach: Graham. Thanks for you wonderful, ind-depth coverage of this wonderful season. Here are my questions:

1. How aggressive will Mizzou's defensive coordinator be in putting pressure on KU's quarterback. Will he blitz at will or tend to play KU's receivers by giving them a cushion?

2. How does MU's offensive line stack up to KU's defensive line?

I guess I'm really thinking that this game (like most) will be won or lost in the trenches.

Vahe Gregorian: 1. I think a lot of what you saw in the second half of the Kansas State game, the stunting, switching, and such, you'll see against Kansas. It will be an attempt to confuse and frustrate. It worked really well against Colorado and Oklahoma. Make no mistake though, Mizzou will be coming after Reesing.

2. Missouri's offensive line did a great job last week of picking up blitzes off the three-man front. I think seeing a three-man front the last couple weeks has made them more alert. I think they'll see something similar this week, and I think Daniel will have some time to move and throw.

I'm not sure this game will be won and lost in the trenches. I think it will be special teams. That's where both teams need to be concerned.

Truman: Graham-

Ok, time once again for my weekly bugging of you. Mike DeArmond gave the Tigers their only first place vote in last week's poll...You missed your chance to be the first one to do it! Anyways, if the Tigers beat the Jayhawks what do you say about moving them up to #1 in your Harris poll? C'mon Graham help make sure that your alma mater jumps overrated West Virginia! Vote Mizzou #1!!!!

Vahe Gregorian: There is no way Missouri would have gotten a first-place vote out of me this week. Sorry, just wasn't going to happen. However, if Mizzou beats KU and a ranked team in the Big 12 title game, then yes, I think I might consider the Tigers No. 1. Conversely, if KU does the same thing, I might consider it No. 1 as well.

Whoever wins Saturday's game - KU or MU - will be No. 2 in my Harris Poll unless LSU falls.

Jake: I still think KU is overrated. They've only played 3 games against teams with winning records, and the most wins any of those teams have is 6. Having said that, I think this game is not going to be that close. Mizzou by 14 or more. Your thoughts?

Vahe Gregorian: You all know my rule about predictions before Friday, but I have to say that I see distinct difference between these two teams that make one a clear favorite in my mind.

I don't know that I can be more ambiguous than that.

thomas_praxis: Hello Graham!

This is it.. I can't wait until Saturday!

Questions:

1) Do you think the absence of Pig Brown is the cause for the defensive let downs against TA&M and KSU? I'm not complaining about the D, but we need a performance similar to the TTech and CU games for this Saturday. I am thrilled with what Weatherspoon and Moore have been doing though.

2) I'm not sure why I am letting it get under my skin so much... can you give me your perspective on the escalating Jayhawk hostility. MU Nation is comprised of "Slavers" and "Racists"? I know we've got our share of bad apples too... but I don't recall experiencing anything like this before. I've stopped looking at the comments on the KC Star. Tiger fans in KC have it bad. I'm afraid it may get ugly at Arrowhead (not on the field but in the stands and parking lot).

Thanks!

Vahe Gregorian: 1. I don't think the absence of Pig Brown has been cause for the letdowns. I think MU playing opponents they're not exactly worried about causes letdowns. I'll be writing about this more in tomorrow's (Thursday's) section.

2. Oh, I know it's going to get ugly at Arrowhead. A whole day of drinking before a rivalry spells nothing but trouble in my mind. I think there will be a lot of security out and I hope everyone is on their best behavior. Fighting about somethig that happened in the 1800s is a little ridiculous, in my opinion.

There is a lot of bad blood in this rivalry and I think it's been fueled more this year by what's on the line. This game has never before meant so much to these two teams. I think that's adding to the trash talk on both sides (not just Kansas).

Joe The Tiger: Graham:My thoughts-MU has too much talent for KU and wins by 10-14 points. I am not worried about KU. I am worried if OU is 100% healthy-that is they have back Bradford,English,and their first string running back. If that is the case-OU beats OSU and beats us in the Championship game by 10-14 points. If OU is not healthy and does not have back English,Bradford,and their first string running back-MU wins easily by 14-17 points over OU. Now if OU is not healthy and loses to OSU;then Texas vs.MU in Championship game. If Texas healthy they win by 3-7 points;if Texas not healthly;MU wins by 10-14 points. If MU does not win the BIG 12 championship;they do not get to a BCS bowl. The committee tkaes either OU or Texas if they both win out. Your thoughts on all the above???

Vahe Gregorian: OK. I think you're getting ahead of yourself here. MU has to beat KU to have a chance at a BCS bowl. There are too many one-loss teams already. If Mizzou loses, it could drop to the Holiday Bowl. So, I think overlooking KU and jumping right into the Big 12 championship would be a mistake.

Ask me this question next week.

Matthew: If Mizzou beats KU, do you think they will be #2? If they lose, how far do you think they will fall?

Vahe Gregorian: Yes. Mizzou should be No. 2 if it wins. A win over No. 2 Kansas is better than a WV win over No. 20 (or whatever) UConn. I will vote Mizzou No. 2 if it wins.

If Mizzou loses, I think it falls out of the Top 10 with two losses. As I said earlier, there are too many one-loss teams. Mizzou would definitely fall out of BCS bowl contention. There is a lot more on the line for Mizzou in this game than Kansas. Kansas, in my opinion, could still go to a BCS bowl with a loss. I'd be surprised if KU fell out of the Top 8 with a loss.

CJ: Graham,
How much does class affect the Heisman candidates? Does being a sophomore hurt Tebow even though hes having a phenomenal season? Does the rest of the media have as much Daniel-love as football fans are showing?

Also, have you heard anything about security at Arrowhead? A few friends and I are going and got stuck in a KU section - will there be a heightened presence to combat any tomfoolery?

Thanks!

Vahe Gregorian: Heisman voters take class into serious account. That's why McFadden didn;t have a stronger showing last year. Most voters figure a freshman or sophomore could win it next year. However, a guy like Tim Tebow probably won;t have an opportunity to put up numbers like this next season when he has a running back in his offense.

A lot of voters like Daniel, but I don't know that a lot of voters like him at No. 1. Um, I think Daniel will have to win out to get the award. I've been saying that for weeks. He got on everyone's radar late and he doesn't play for a traditional power. I know that's unfair, but it's a human, subjective vote. Not much you can do about that. If he wins out, Daniel could sweep the top college player awards this season.

Graham Watson: I've got 15 more minutes before they kick me out of the hotel.

Dom (Kalamazoo): Hey Graham,
Gary Pinkel has had a reputation of making poor in-game play calls (re: the term "pinkeled a game away"). Do you think this is fair based on the first 6 years of his tenure? Was it lack of execution or poor coaching?
Secondly, how much does Pinkel micro-manage and how much does he himself delegate?

Happy Thanksgiving!

Vahe Gregorian: I think during Pinkel's first, I would say five seasons, he really made some poor calls and choices. Last year, he got better because he started to trust Daniel a bit. This year, he has been spot-on because he trusts his entire team. That's the key. Pinkel didn’t trust those kids in the early years. This year, he relies on his seniors and his leaders to guide him into the right decisions. Those are the guys on the field, those are the guys you should listen to.

Obviously, the plays come from the coordinators, but Pinkel can veto a call if he doesn't like it or doesn't think it will work. I think Daniel has the same latitude. He gets on the headset (during MU defensive series) with the coaches in the box, tells them what he sees, and the coaches adjust. I can tell you that this was never done with Brad at the helm.

craiger: We've been hearing the rumors for years about the Tigers wearing this or that new uniform for a big game. If there was ever a chance to give the team and the crowd a boost with some unorthodox uniforms, this Saturday would be the time. Any idea if we will see the Tigers wearing something different than usual when they hit the field on Saturday?

Vahe Gregorian: I haven't heard anything about uniforms this week, though I'm leaning toward the all-black, or something with gold pants. I've never heard of or seen gold jerseys or helmets. And honestly, after watching West Virginia in its all-gold last week, do you really want to see Mizzou in all gold (or yellow as the case may be)?

craiger: Do you think that KU's running back was serious when he said he hadn't watched any film of Mizzou yet? That just seems absurd. Does KU not emphasize film like MU does or is this just one player speaking for himself?

Vahe Gregorian: I think KU emphasizes film. I think KU's coaches are good at what they do. They come from winning backgrounds. Make no mistake that KU will be ready for this game. However, I do think that McAnderson was telling me the truth that he hadn't watched film. Monday was an off day for the team. A lot of those guys said they just spent the day relaxing and getting away from football.

The reason I think McAnderson was on the up and up is because Aqib Talib said he did watch some film, but that he was one of a few guy who did. He said he watched Mizzou's game against Oklahoma. He had very complimentary things to say about Mizzou's offense.

KU was getting its gameplan later on Tuesday. I just think that's how they prepare for games. Don't knock it, KU is 11-0.

Lowell Nadler: This is your Latvian fan again.

I am interested to read what you wrote about the press conference, and Mangino's apparent emotional "break down" and then to hear that the players either aren't serious about the game, or believe that they will just walk on the field and be given a win makes me fell real confident about the tigers chances of winning the game. I then think that there may be some mind games going on on the KU side. Is that a possibility?
Would this KU team and coaches do that?
I would hope they don't think that that will work. Either way I think that bodes well for the Tigers.
Thanks, from Latvia.
GO MIZZOU.

Vahe Gregorian: As I said earlier, KU might just prepare differently. There is NO reason to think KU isn't going to be prepared in this game. However, I think the late film study moght give Mizzou an opportuity to pull some tricks out of the bag. Stuff they haven't run for awhile or stuff we haven't seen yet. It's hard to retain all of Mizzou;s games in a couple days. My guess is that KU is working on itself and not it's opponent. That's been KU's philosophy all year.

It did just kill me though when McAnderson said that just by looking at Mizzou's stats he thought KU could run on them. Oh, and he also compared Mizzou to Oklahoma State. I left that part out.

He really needs to get in the film room.

Scott: What is your estimate for the amount of work getting done in offices throughout the state this week. I know through two days I have done almost ten minutes of work.

Vahe Gregorian: If it's my office, it's about 30 times my normal workload. If I was just a normal, not involved with the coverage of the team, person, about 30 minutes.

I know I'm going to need some stress relief in Westport on Friday night. If anyone happens to be down there and sees me, please say hello.

GSW.: Graham,

As an '86 Mizzou grad, I saw up close the end of Warren Powers (he and some players sitting in Harpo's the night he got fired was truly surreal) and the train wreck that was Woody's Wagon. What I haven't seen before this year was a program-wide commitment to winning and, dare I say, excellence. Every week, one or more Tigers seem to put together the right game at the right time to move the program forward. I know you don't predict the game until Friday, but tell me which MU player(s) you think really needs to step it up this week for the Tigers to move on.

Thanks, and happy Thanksgiving!

Vahe Gregorian: Wow. I don't know that you can limit this to just one or two players. Mizzou has to play its best game on both sides of the ball to win here. I don;t think any of us have seen Mizzou's best game yet. I think we've seen parts of it - Nebraska and Colorado - but never an entire game. That's what needs to happen for this team to win.

However, if I had to pick one player who I think really needs to step up I this game... I'd say Adam Crossett. No joke. Special teams are going to be huge in this game, and since both punt teams are suspect, Crossett needs to find some magic to give Mizzou the edge.

Graham Watson: OK. I have about 40 more questions to get to, and I'm sorry that I'm going to have to do it a little later. I tried to type fast (probably all sorts of mistakes). I will get to the rest of later this evening. I promise. It will give everyone something to do while waiting for Thanksgiving dinner.

Thanks for joining the chat. I've got to write a story about the defense for tomorrow's paper, but like I said, I'll be back later.

Thanks again.

Mike: You have mentioned Shawn Scott in previous chats. Can you tell us a little more about him.

Vahe Gregorian: Shawn Scott is a running back, who can’t play this season because he’s a transfer from Central Missouri State. He was the 2004 P-D Offensive Player of the Year from Parkway Central. He joined the team last spring.

Since he hasn't be eligible to play, I can’t give you more than what I’ve seen in practice. The young man is quick and he runs hard. He’s a good north-south runner between the tackles. I definitely think he'll have a chance to compete this spring.

J.T.: What do you think it's going to take to have a college football playoff system? They could still use the BCS system to select the teams. Also in basketball I have been impressed by the play of Keon Lawrence so far, your thoughts?

Vahe Gregorian: I think it's going to take a lot of coaches disagreeing with the BCS to change it, and it can’t be changed until 2010. I think there's a greater chance of a plus-one game than an actual change in the BCS. Here's a story that explains the plus-one idea:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/16532084/

As for basketball, I like Keon Lawrence too. He's going to be a good player as the season progresses. I think he hot a little stretch of tough luck in Kansas City, but he'll be the best player on this team when it's all said and done.

W Richard: Sorry Graham, no rediculous "Weapons of Mass Production" posts today. However, I was wondering if you have talked to Coach Pinkel about stabilizing the punting game? If so, have they decided on any personnel or scheme changes? In addition, do you feel like Mizzou is in a spot where they can sell out against the run and leave their secondary vulnerabl? You had mentioned a couple weeks ago that Coach Ford had said that his guys weren't necessarily where they needed to be confindence wise. Has that changed? Or should Mizzou just go out and play "their" game and make adjustments accordingly? I await your wisdom.

Vahe Gregorian: Nickname dropper... :)

There will be no changes to the punt team, at least not according to the punter. Trust me, Adam Crossett is the best option. I think it's just a simple commitment by each guy to do his job. Guys aren't blocking well, Steven Blair's not snapping well, and Crossett's not getting the ball off quick enough. Not sure there's much to do but get committed to it.

Mizzou will gameplan accordingly for the game. It's not going to devote more resources to the run that it will the pass. KU is diverse and leaning on something more than another would be a mistake. What Mizzou is going to do is try to attempt to confuse Todd Reesing. I think we all forget that Reesing is in his 13th game. That's it. He hasn't seen it all and he hasn't seen Missouri. Mizzou is going to try to get at him and disrupt his flow.

If that doesn't work, they'll change accordingly. They've done it all season.

Dave: Graham,could you please compare the running games of Oaklahoma,Texas A&M, Kansas St,and Kansas? If Mizzou can stop the run, I feel they will cintrol this game. Do you agree?

Vahe Gregorian: I'm not sure what you want me to compare with those teams. Oklahoma (seriously on the spelling?), A&M and Kansas State all have decent running games. Mizzou did a good job against Oklahoma, so I'm not sure why it's on this list. Missouri also played well against A&M in the first half and Kansas State in the second half.

Missouri can stop the run. It just has to be interested in doing it. I know it sounds simple, but it's true (read my story today). Kansas has a nice running game. McAnderson is a good back that has deceptive speed. Missouri needs to assert itself against the run early. It also needs to score early to keep KU out of its running comfort zone.

Mike in Phoenix: Morning,

Why is ESPN so convinced that KU will make less "mistakes" and that will be the difference? Both teams are among the least penalized teams in the country, Chase has a couple more interceptions. My assumption is that they are referring to special teams. These blocked punts are getting scary, any news of what steps the team is taking to limit the total to two for the season? Next year Graham live twice a week!

Vahe Gregorian: You're making the mistake of thinking that ESPN has watched and analyzed KU tape. What it's analyzed is a boxscore. KU doesn't make many mistakes, but it hasn't faced a lot of pressure either. Toledo, Florida International and Kansas State brought pressure and Kansas turned the ball over three times in each game. None of those teams were good enough to capitalize on the mistakes, though.

The mistakes on the punting team are frustrating and you can bet that the team has put special emphasis on it all week long.

Twice a week? I don't have that much to say.

desert_tiger: Graham,
Thanks again, for another week of chat. This is a serious question, though it may not look like one. I am fascinated by: Talib saying he had not watched film; preseason KU contests with steak and peanut butter as the prizes; and Mangino's demeanor yesterday per your article.

If one looked at the two coaches one would come to the conclusion that Gary Pinkel and Mark Mangino do not have the same self-discipline, and hence a different approach to coaching.

My question (after all of that) is what is Mangino's approach? Do they do the same things week after week like Mizzou? Do they watch film? Are donuts involved?

Vahe Gregorian: Mangino is trying to make the game fun for a team that hasn't had a lot of success. Losing breeds bad behavior and frustration, which leads to more losses. Steak and peanut butter apparently leads to wins. When you tried everything else...

KU does have a routine just like Mizzou and every other school. Mangino doesn’t start talking about the gameplan with his boys until Tuesday. They aren't required to watch film until then either. Now, this is just what I got from the boys. Mangino didn’t script his week for me.

I think I saw steak-filled donuts...

Brian from KC: Graham,

First of all, great coverage of the Tigers! I enjoy the chats every Thursday!

My question is about the KU defensive line. I think the only way to slow down MUs offense is to pressure Daniel. OU did that early in the game in Norman, and was fairly effective. However, OU has enough talent (Austin English) that the front four were providing the pressure, and blitzes weren't really used. As I'm sure you know, a blitz against this offense is suicide. Does KU's line have enough talent to put pressure on Daniel? And is it true that one of their DT studs is out for the game?

Thanks! GO TIGERS!

Vahe Gregorian: KU has a good line. It doesn't have a lot of sacks, so I'm not sure about putting a lot of pressure on Daniel. I wouldn't be surprised to see yet another three-man front with a lot of guys dropping in coverage. If that's the case, Tony Temple better be ready to go. KU has a potential All-American in tackle James McClinton. He'll be a handful.

The stud that might be out of the game is offensive lineman Anthony Collins. Collins is a finalist for the Outland Trophy. He didn't play against Iowa State. Mangino said he wasn't sure if he was going to play, but felt good about it.

mars: Graham, what do you think the KEYS to the game are for MU? What should we be looking for?

Here is what I think: Here is the obvious.....the winner of the turnover battle will be huge. Special teams will be huge - MU's punting game scares me to death, but Maclin could offset that with a big return. But one thing I haven't been hearing from the "pundits" is time of possession. When MU gives up 20+ points, it almost always due to the fact that their defense gets worn down when the opposition controls the clock. I understand MU can strike quickly, but do you feel like if KU controls time of possession, MU could be in trouble?? MU's defense has been fantastic when TOP is even or just slightly in favor of the opposing team (within 5 minute difference), it's when I see a big difference in TOP that MU's defense struggles. What do you think?

Mars

Vahe Gregorian: My keys?

Special teams
MU running game
MU Defensive pressure

I don't think TOP is going to be a big deal if Mizzou gets a lead and that's what the Tigers want anyway.

Also, I think the first few minutes of the game are going to be key. There's going to be a lot of emotion coming in, so whoever can harness that and turn it into something positive will have an early advantage.

Dave McFarland: Graham, Great work. Can you tell us who the idiot was that voted West Va. #1, that cost us the #3 in the B.C.S?

Vahe Gregorian: I can't coaches votes are secret until the end of the season. But there is no guarantee it was the West Virginia coach. I don't even know if he has a vote. Only the last ballot is available to the public.

Aaron: Hi Graham,

I hear a lot of people saying that the offenses of both teams are very similar and that it will be coming down to who has the better defense and most people are saying Kansas. Is the Mizzou D getting overlooked after they two good offenses in Tech and Nebraska to 10 and 6 points respectively?

Vahe Gregorian: KU's offense is more like Texas Tech with a better running game. So like the redheaded stepchild to Mizzou's offense... I think the defense is getting overlooked and that's exactly the way it wants it. Mizzou's D plays better when everyone counts it out. It's the only real chance Missouri gets to gain that underdog mentality.

UnpaidPhotoGuy: Is it 11 yet?

How about now?

Is it Saturday yet?


PLEEEEAAASSSSEEEE say yes.

Is that bad weather I see coming for KC Saturday night?

Vahe Gregorian: Where do you get your weather? Mine says 39 degrees and cloudy at kickoff. Wear your Long Johns.

Gary in Oklahoma: Great job on PD coverage this week!

Couple of trivia questions: #1. With all of the good press Missouri received for the all-gold showing at the Nebraska game, why are they pushing black this week? Can't be for tv exposure. Is it merchandise sales, or do you think with the colder weather and coats fans will be wearing; no gold would have shown up anyway? #2. Any new uniform look anticipated this week for either team? ps. thank you (alot) for correcting my grammar.

Vahe Gregorian: 1. I have no idea. I don't work for Missouri. However, GP is always wearing black. Maybe it's a fetish.

2. No word on the uniform, but I would lean toward all black.

Thanks alot :)

Anthony: Graham, thanks for everything you've done this year covering the Tigers. For the record, quantity and quality of coverage for Saturday's game in the Post is far exceeding that in the KC Star (Whitlock is all the talent they got!).

Prediction: Mizzou by 38-17 and OSU sends Texas to San Antonio with a win in Norman. Next week will be absolutely nuts and Tiger fans will have already forgotten this game! MIZFKU!

Vahe Gregorian: How about Texas A&M over Texas and mass chaos ensues? That would be a fitting ending to a crazy season.

Brian: Much has been made of Kansas' perceived defensive superiority over the Tigers, but the most skilled offensive teams the Jayhawks have played (Oklahoma State and Nebraska) had little trouble amassing yards on them, particularly through the air. Do you think the absence of more potent offenses in Kansas' schedule this year, like Texas, Oklahoma, or Texas Tech, will make it harder for Kansas to be properly prepared for Mizzou's offensive juggernaut?

Vahe Gregorian: I don't know that KU won't be properly prepared, I just don't think they'll match up well against Mizzou. However, not many teams do. I do think that Nebraska exposed KU's defense a bit, and Missouri should have little trouble moving the ball as long as they're smart with it. If anything, this game could be a shootout if Mizzou's defense doesn't show up, but I don't think that happens.

Mark Sanders: Assuming MIZZOU reaches the Big 12 championship game - who do you think they matchup better against - Texas or Oklahoma? And would you favor MIZZOU in either game. Thanks

Vahe Gregorian: Missouri matches up better against Texas, but I think the Tigers, after getting one look at the Sooners, could take OU down in their second try.

I think Chase would relish a chance to play Texas in his home state for the Big 12 title. Tthe only problem is that that game would be a home game for the Longhorns.

Andrew: Do you think Missouri will come out throwing deep like Colorado or try and get the run started early?

I think the MO players from the West side of the state are going to not let the tigers lose this game (Rucker, Temple, Coffman, etc.)

Vahe Gregorian: I think Mizzou will come out throwing. It will put KU back on its heels and second-guessing a little bit.

buddy1999: Hey Graham,

For once I have a real question, My friend and I had a little disagreement about Tebow vs Daniel, his thought was Tebow is the best QB because you can look at his stats and see how great he is, my response was wait a second Daniel's stats are just as good but he is asked to do different things (not run the ball as much, shorter passes) so to just look at the stats and say Tebow is better is a simple way to look at things. Am I wrong or do I need to take off my Black and Old Gold colored glasses? If Daniel was asked to run like Tebow, wouldn't he have alot more TD's? Thanks Graham, and I know you can not go home this week, but still try to have a great Thanksgiving.

Peace Out
Buddy1999

P.S.
KU stinks.

Vahe Gregorian: A lot... Two words.

Tebow's numbers are amazing. That's the truth. However, I think a QB that leads his team tom something amazing and unexpected, like Daniel has the chance to do, would be the very definition of a Heisman Trophy winner.

William: What are the attendance figures you are hearing? I've been hearing anything from 50/50 to 90/10 kU fans. Just curious how many weapons are needed. Just kidding, but maybe not... Also, are you going to DeArmond's tailgate before the game?

Vahe Gregorian: Ryan Wood, the KU beat writer from the Lawrence Journal World, told me he felt like it was going to be more 50/50. I trust what he says and he wrote it in the paper.

I have a ticket to Gabe's tailgate. I might stop by early.

Dan W.: Hi Graham,

I have a question on the recruits for next year. Do you think Compton and B. Givens will evenutally follow Gabbert to MU?

Thanks!

Vahe Gregorian: I think there's a better chance to get Compton. Givens is still taking visits.

Al Larimer: Who do you think will have more fans at the game, Missouri or Kansas? I know it is a lot closer for the Kansas fans.

Vahe Gregorian: Kansas by a slight margin.

John: Graham--

I'm here in Arizona. What really is the forecast for Saturday night? Do you think McAnderson was pulling your leg about not watching ANY film? What's your take on the attendance split 70/30, 60/40, 50/50? Has Missouri been practicing outdoors and/or at night at all this week?

Thanks

Vahe Gregorian: A nice 39 degrees. Am I the only one who can access weather.com?

I don't think McAnderson was pulling my leg. What's the point? Why would he be so secretive about watching film? Seems pretty lame to me.

Attendance will be 50/50 to 60/40 leaning toward KU.

Missouri has been practicing at its regular time. But it gets dark about halfway through practice, so the Tigers have a couple weeks of playing in the dark under their belts.

Carl: I've been hearing some chatter that Reesing's ankle is bothering him from the ISU game and that Kansas refuses to talk about it. Do you know anything about this? Is there possibly more to it that we're hearing?

Vahe Gregorian: He injured his ankle in the Oklahoma State game. He says it's fine, but he was hobbling during the Iowa State game. If he was hurt, no one would ever say anything. It's very Bill Snyder of Mangino.

Gary in Oklahoma: Do you spend much time reading Tigerboard to listen in on what's of current interest to Tiger fans?

Vahe Gregorian: I have been known to troll TB. It's mostly for my own sadistic entertainment.

Slackhawk: Graham, Thanks for your great coverage all year! What kind of effect do you see the weather having for this game. Last I looked the forecast said it would be just above or just below freezing. Does the cold weather hurt us more than kansas?

Vahe Gregorian: Football was made for cold weather. I don't think cold weather affects either team. These teams have played in the winter before. Trust me, adrenaline will take care of the cold.

Kravitz: Graham,
Tigers are such a great team if they play solid, fundamental football, its a fairly lopsided win. Just wanted to say that.

Vahe Gregorian: I appeciate you visiting the chat to let us all know your feelings.

Andy: Will christensen tighten up/be conservative with play calling like he has in previous big games at MU?

Vahe Gregorian: Uh, no. If it ain't broke, don't fix it. DC has never had so many options to use against KU. It's basically like a video game for him. Just pick a play.

Bruce: Hey Graham
I've been enjoying the MIZZOU Replay Show the last couple of years but missed it last week. Hope it's broadcast for K-State. If this season completes as we all hope and dream, do you expect a CD set showcasing the season, etc?

Vahe Gregorian: I think that's likely.

Scott (Columbia, MO): Graham:
Once again, great work. To say I am looking forward to this game is quite an understatement. The whole happiness of my Thanksgiving is resting on MU pulling it out. With that said, how do you see the Tigers putting the brakes on McAnderson, the KU running back? He's a big boy, and MU has had some difficulty stopping big guys (like Javorskie Lane from A&M) in the past. Any idea what the game plan is?

Vahe Gregorian: McAnderson isn't as big as Lane. I'd say he's more like Shannon Woods or Johnson from Kansas State. I think Mizzou will do fine against the run if the offense can score. Mizzou has to take the running game out of the equation. That's the key.

BJWSTl: Hey Graham,
I know I sound like All St Louis Fans, but the more I read about the upcoming game against KU the more I get upset. In Almost every prediction sports writers have Ku on top by 7. What has KU done that is so great. Hawaii is undefeated too. Either way it will be a great game. Thanks

Vahe Gregorian: Well, you said it. KU is undefeated. It put up big numbers against Nebraska and because Nebraska is still Nebraska (regardless of how bad it is) that gives people reason to think KU is good.

KU has talent. This isn't going to be an easy game. KU is going to give Mizzou a run for its money. But KU has yet to play a team that punches back EVERY SINGLE TIME it punches first.

Snake: Should my friend, Cloudson, be concerned for his well-being on Saturday night? He's a big Mizzou fan and likes to yell at the fans of the opposing team. Thanks.

Vahe Gregorian: I think all fans should be concerned for their well-being when these two teams get together.

You think I joke...

Phil: Mizzou is keeping you busy this week. I don't mean to belittle the Illinois rivalry, it's important and ought to be cultivated, but ku is different. There is a history that makes it special even in the lean, otherwise meaningless years. I live in KC, and this year you can actually feel it. It's tangible. This morning on my way to the office I saw a house flying a ku flag and the neighboring house had a for sale sign in the yard.

Chase Daniel talks about a pro career, and if that's what he wants in the future I hope it works out for him. When I hear him talk, however, I hear a coach. He seems a natural. Has he ever talked about coaching as a career? And fans need to know that fan votes count 5% of the Davey O'Brien balloting.

Vahe Gregorian: He talks like a coach because he and GP are like attached at the hip. I give him so much stuff for using what we call, "Pinkelisms." It's too funny. This is the first year I've heard him talk like that and it's gotten worse as the season goes on. I actually think it's a good think. He really is a coach on the field.

Daniel doesn't talk about coaching. He really wants to play.

A,Smith: I would like to know if you think the tigers season is luck are if they are the real deal. Can they bring us a ship before i am old and gray and cant walk to the games. Are will it be when my son is playing for them in 2025 when he gets out of high school. I just want to know go TIGERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Vahe Gregorian: Mizzou is the real deal. No luck involved. Missouri is a very good football team. I don't know about the championship. But the North is a good start.

Paul: Who are some of the stars from the Mizzou recruting class?

Vahe Gregorian: QB Blaine Gabbert and TE Andrew Jones are the stars of this class, but I think it addresses Missouri's needs across the board. It takes care of the O-line and the defense, places where the Tigers are losing people this year.

Lex: I know Daniel & Pinkel have said they're not too worried about making a mistake and I understand why not (I certainly don't want to see them playing tight in this game) but that doesn't prevent me from being worried about our punting game ... How do they fix that (I don't think it needs to be great, it just can't give up any blocks)?

Vahe Gregorian: Like I said earlier, Missouri would be working on it punt game all week. I think it knows it's been weak the last two weeks and it will be challenged to play better. Adam Crossett doesn't want to be the goal again.

Graham Watson: Done and done.

Have a great Thanksgiving everyone. See you in Kansas City.