Tennessee football vs. Missouri: Five key Tigers to watch for against Vols

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Oct 22, 2022; Columbia, Missouri, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores quarterback Mike Wright (5) runs the ball as Missouri Tigers linebacker Ty’Ron Hopper (8) chases during the second half of the game at Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports /

Scouting Report. Ty'Ron Hopper. 822. Pick Analysis. Linebacker. Junior. 2. player

6’2″ 221 pounds

Going back to the defense, obviously the biggest playmaker for Mizzou will be a guy Tennessee football has to watch out for at all costs. Ty’Ron Hopper transferred to Mizzou from the Florida Gators and has been absolutely devastating for opposing SEC offenses all year.

Hopper has 11.5 tackles for a loss, two and a half sacks, an interception, four pass deflections, a forced fumble and 51 total tackles, 40 of which were solo. He is as good in coverage as any of the defensive backs, who have also been elite with guys like Jaylon Carlies, Joseph Charleston and Martez Manuel, although they all deserve a shoutout.

Winning matchups with Hopper is as key for the Vols as winning against their defensive line. Last week, they had quite a few rushing plays that got to the second level, but Georgia tackled so well it didn’t matter. That can’t be the case in this one, as they have to elude guys like Hopper.

More importantly, they can’t let him make big plays. Hopper had seven tackles, a pass deflection and assisted on a sack while facing the Vols last year with Florida, so he can be a force for Josh Heupel’s offense to deal with. Alex Golesh and Hendon Hooker had better be ready for him at all times to keep him from shutting down their unit.

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