Mizzou Football Preview: Tigers Host Central Florida in Week 3

In what may be their toughest nonconference game remaining, Mizzou gears up to host the defending Fiesta Bowl champions, Central Florida. UCF opened the year with a historic contest in Dublin, Ireland against Penn State, but never looked the better team and fell to the Nittany Lions, 26-24, after a furious comeback wasn't enough for Penn State's late field goal.

But if you think that the Knights are coming into Columbia with their heads down, think again. This team thrives on playing in tough situations and sees nothing but opportunity with their visit to Columbia this weekend.

Mizzou comes into Week 3 with a 2-0 record as expected and has done so while looking decent on offense and questionable on defense. Russell Hansbrough has been able to essentially become that primary back who may have an amazing season. Marcus Murphy has been critical as a multi-functional player. Darius White and Bud Sasser have made themselves big targets for quarterback Maty Mauk.

Players have stepped up on the defensive side of the ball but have let opponents gash them in the running game. So how will Mizzou fare against UCF? We examine all aspects.

Season Overview

Associated Press

Mizzou senior wide receiver Bud Sasser

At this point in the season, it's hardly any barometer to look at the raw numbers and say anything one way or another. Looking at how Mizzou played outside of the numbers, one thing it has done that could be a huge problem if it's not addressed is maintaining a lead.

Gary Pinkel's squad has been sensational in coming out strong right out of the gate, especially on the road if you go back to last season. But in both of Missouri's contests to start 2014, it has gotten to decent leads only to let the team right back in the game with a couple of mental lapses or blown assignments.

Central Florida is a team that will be playing with a full motor for the entire game. If Missouri starts strong but lets its guard down, it could be an even contest again come the third quarter.

Injuries

USA TODAY Sports

Missouri sophomore tailback Morgan Steward is questionable for the UCF game.

Mizzou has yet again figured out a beautiful system of conditioning and preparation, as it has maintained another healthy start to the season.

Its only concern is the hip of sophomore tailback Morgan Steward, a sensational young player who adds dependable depth to the rushing attack.

Central Florida did take quite a pounding in the first week of the season, but an early bye has allowed it to recover well. Although the Knights have four players listed on their injury report, per StatFox.com, including quarterback Justin Holman, all UCF players are at least probable. That includes linebacker Terrance Plummer (foot), wide receiver Rannell Hall (elbow) and running back William Stanback (toe).

Of course, that could all change depending on how their week of practice goes, but as of right now, UCF is coming at Missouri with all hands on deck.

Central Florida

John Raoux/Associated Press

UCF sophomore quarterback Justin Holman is going to need to be fast enough to stay away from the quick Mizzou defensive ends.

OK, so this UCF team may not be the same one it was with Blake Bortles as its quarterback last year, but after losing less than a handful on defense, it's clear this squad can compete with anyone who can't put it away.

But Mizzou should have the offense to match the challenges the UCF defense presents. The Knights gave up a staggering 454 passing yards against Penn State, averaging 14.2 yards per completion. If the UCF defensive backfield does nothing to improve on how it played last week, Mizzou will have a clinic in passing the football.

And Mizzou's run defense? UCF has a dismal 24 yards rushing on 29 attempts last week. As I said to start things off, its hard to gauge things from one game or any single stat, but I think it's safe to say that if the Tigers allow the Knights to run all over them, we'll know we have a problem.

UCF Players to Watch

Associated Press

UCF wide receiver J.J. Worton is a playmaker who needs to have the attention of Mizzou coaches.

Besides Holman as the likely starter on Saturday, you've got other players who will impact the game. One of them is senior wide receiver J.J. Worton, who leads the team in receptions and yards for.

On the defensive side of the ball, look out for senior defensive back Clayton Geathers. This guy was a beast against Penn State, accounting for 10 solo tackles and 15 overall including two for a loss. His impact status is high.

Also keep an eye on the returning William Stanback. Many believe he is poised for a breakout year.

Mizzou: UCF Matchup

USA TODAY Sports

Markus Golden is on fire right now, and no one on Central Florida is going to be able to stop him.

The matchup difference for this game will be what Mizzou's greatest individual strength is right now, and that's defensive lineman Markus Golden.

Golden is playing with a high level of intensity,and has what coaches would call the "it" factor; he just has "it."

And if the Knights put all of their attention on Golden, enter Shane Ray, who is certainly just as capable of causing havoc and generating momentum for the defense.

There will be other matchups that become obvious advantages throughout the game, but this one will cause turnovers and be too much for UCF to handle.

Prediction

David Richard/Associated Press

Mizzou head coach Gary Pinkel is leading Mizzou to new heights of success.

There's no question that Central Florida comes in as a tough team and will give the Tigers fits if they're not careful. But in the end, what Mizzou has been putting together in this offseason has been nothing short of exceptional.

Mizzou has the firepower to win any kind of shootout with the Knights, regardless of their defense. This game will function as a great chance for those who want to prove they can play to step up.

In any event, look for another Maty Mauk-heavy day as the Tigers get loads of points and beat UCF 54-35.

Follow Dan Irwin on Twitter @irwinsports or on Facebook.