The Longhorns must limit Missouri’s explosive plays and finish tackles to leave Columbia with a win.
Texas knows Missouri wants to establish the run. But the Longhorns can’t get so focused on the backfield that senior wide receiver Cayden Lee takes over the game.
Lee enters Saturday with 53 receptions for 756 yards and five touchdowns. He leads the SEC in receiving yards and has caught at least five passes in eight consecutive games. Missouri quarterback Austin Simmons has a dependable target and Texas must make that connection uncomfortable.
It starts with challenging routes and finishing tackles.
Lee has produced 289 yards after the catch this season. Giving him a cushion and expecting the first defender to clean everything up is a dangerous approach. The Longhorns need to close space, take good angles and get him on the ground before a short completion becomes a first down or something bigger.
That responsibility goes beyond the cornerbacks. Linebackers and safeties must recognize where Lee is lining up, communicate through formations and arrive ready to tackle.
Texas also can’t devote all its attention to one receiver. Sophomore receiver Donovan Olugbode has 40 catches for 584 yards and seven touchdowns. Overplaying Lee could create an opportunity on the other side.
Simmons has thrown 16 touchdown passes against just two interceptions. The Longhorns can’t build their defensive plan around waiting for him to make a mistake. They have to create difficult throws through pressure, tight coverage and disciplined execution.
The pass rush and secondary must work together. Pressure loses its value if an easy completion gives Missouri the yards it needs. Good coverage becomes harder to maintain if Simmons has time to stand in the pocket.
With defensive backs Graceson Littleton and Kade Phillips listed as questionable on Thursday’s availability report, Texas must be prepared to execute with whichever defensive backs take the field.
The assignment is clear: stop the run without giving away the passing game, challenge Missouri’s receivers and eliminate cheap yards after the catch.
Lee is going to get opportunities. Texas has to make sure catching the football is where the play ends.
