Missouri Football: 5 Storylines Heading into Spring Ball

Missouri is a team that's had great success over the years, reaching a bowl game in seven straight seasons. Now the Tigers head into the SEC which will give the program much needed exposure and a chance to spread their wings in a more competitive conference.

Although we still may be months away from college football kicking off, spring ball is right around the corner. The Tigers first spring practice has yet to be scheduled, but the spring game will take place on April 14.

As we get ready for everything spring has to offer, here are the top five storylines to pay attention to.

Can the Secondary Get It Together?

The Big 12 is a conference that isn't exactly known for its defense, but the Tigers secondary last season was one of the better in the conference as it only allowed 25 yards in the air. That may still be quite a bit of yards, but things could be much worse if the Tigers don't find players to fill in the holes.

Both strong safety Kenji Jackson and cornerback Trey Hobson are no longer on the roster. That means senior Kenronte Walker and cornerback Kip Edwards will likely be the favorites to start this season in their place.

Both of those seniors made solid contributions last season, but starting full time is a whole different ball game. It's worth keeping an eye on to see how these players fill in their new roles.

How Will the Lines Shape Up?

Heading into the SEC, the game is usually won in the trenches. Whichever team can protect the quarterback well and rush the opposing quarterback the best will usually win the game. For Missouri every starter on the defensive line will be different than last year and only three starters on the offensive line return. 

This isn't good news when you have Alabama, Florida, Texas A&M and Georgia on the schedule. This is a huge area of concern and should be the main focus heading into the spring.

How Much of a Factor Will Dorial Green-Beckham Be?

One of the most exciting moments in Missouri football was when Dorial Green-Beckham announced he was going to become a Tiger. The potential is endless with this top recruit as he's 6'6", 220 pounds and runs a 40 in the 4.4 range. 

It won't be easy going up against defenses in the SEC, but just looking at Green-Beckham's physical tools, he has what it takes to become an extremely successful receiver. If he's able to skip the learning curve and contribute faster than most, things could get exciting in Missouri its first season in the SEC.

This is the player that everybody is watching and talking about.

Can James Franklin Take His Game to the Next Level?

Like many dual-threat quarterbacks, Franklin isn't a consistent passer and forces too many mistakes that result in costly turnovers. He completes a decent percentage of his throws, as he completed 63 percent last year, but 11 interceptions in the Big 12 is simply too much.

Heading in the SEC where nearly every defense is loaded with talent, he must take his game to the next level. Sure, he's a fantastic athlete and can run like the wind, but if opposing defenses don't respect his arm, it'll be a long season for the junior quarterback.

How Will the Tigers Fare in Their First Season?

This is the million dollar question for every team that's participating in a new conference. Heading to the toughest conference in college football is never an easy transition, and it may take some time for this young team.

The Tigers are making huge strides under head coach Gary Pinkel, but there are still question marks surrounding this team. Holes on both the offensive and defensive lines won't cut it, and going from a conference where every team plays defense will take time to adjust to.

Missouri still has a ton of playmakers on the offensive side of the ball, and that alone should make things interesting and keep things close.

Randy Chambers is a B/R featured columnist that covers college football and the NFL. You can contact him @Randy_Chambers or [e-mail].