Missouri vs. Texas A&M: 5 Halftime Adjustments the Tigers Must Make

After a slow start, this game has gotten really interesting. It seems like the shootout is on. I don't expect much in the way of defense in the second half. But, the way Missouri's offense has been running the ball, we may have a classic score-for-score matchup.

Texas A&M has one of the most dynamic offenses in the nation. So, this could get out of hand if the Tigers can't put points of their own on the board when they get the ball.

Here are five big adjustments Missouri must make at halftime:

1. Keep the Aggies Out of the Red Zone

If that's possible. Not just for Mizzou, but for any defense. The Aggie offense is going to hit you on the ground and through the air, and there's nothing anyone can do about it. But, if the Tigers can limit the damage somehow and cut down on the yardage, they have a chance to pull the upset. 

A&M leads the Big 12 by scoring almost 95 percent of the time they have been in the red zone. But if Missouri can keep them outside the 20 and hold them to field goals, they have a great shot. The best way to do that is to stack the box on obvious rushing downs and keep the pressure on QB Ryan Tannehill.

2. Blitz Tannehill

The only time Tannehill has looked remotely uncomfortable so far today is when he's being rushed and flushed out of the pocket. He's not nearly as accurate on the run, and a good blitz will make him get out of that comfort zone and force some throws.

If the Tiger defense can blitz effectively, we may see an interception or happy feet from Tannehill, where he either loses a drive to downs or gives the ball away. There aren't many things that would be better for Missouri's confidence right now than stuffing this high-powered offense.

3. Trust Franklin

I know James Franklin has had his struggles. But today, he looks great. He missed one wide-open receiver in the first quarter, but has good numbers across the board and is making things happen. No matter how you cut it, the kid has led two scoring drives to this point. 

The running game is looking good, but if that's all we see, then Texas A&M will learn to key on that and that shuts down a huge portion of the offense. Franklin is looking good in the pocket; trust him to make the throws or to make something happen with his feet if the play falls apart.

4. Keep Pounding the Ball

Like I mentioned, the running game has been good. Henry Josey has been electric out of the backfield and is averaging around five yards per carry. To keep this soft Aggie defense honest, they need to mix up the play calling and keep pounding the ball.

That way, there's more room when they do call a running play to bust through a hole for a big gainer. Franklin is playing a good QB, and pushing the ball with the run is going to keep the defense off-balance and allow that passing attack to continue to put up points.

5. Keep the Momentum

This is a very dangerous game for the No. 16 Texas A&M. The last thing they want is to lose at home to an unranked Mizzou team. But, the Tigers have an upset on the mind and want to make a statement in a road conference game.

If they can keep it close or take a lead in the second half, they could completely kill the crowd. And we all know how essential that is to a big college football game. If Missouri can snag the momentum with a turnover or big play, they will have a huge advantage moving forward.