Missouri looks good in scrimmage

The Missouri Tigers took the field this weekend at Farot Field in an intra squad scrimmage as they inch closer to the start of the 2010 season. With rarely a shortage of offense Mizzou put on a display in Columbia, starting quarterback Blaine Gabbert was strong completing 18 of 23 for 162 yards and a touchdown, but says there is room for improvement.

"We have to get more consistent on both sides of the ball," said Gabbert. "There are goods and bad's of the scrimmage, but we'll look at film tomorrow and evaluate it."

Mizzou Offense 56
Mizzou Defense 48

Big plays highlighted the Tigers offensive attack. Derrek Washington got things going on the first play from scrimmage busting loose for 73 yards, he also added a 42 yard run later in scrimmage.

"We got better (Missouri Offense) and the defense just needs to get better too," said Washington. "Both sides of the ball made big plays. Once we bring it together as a team it's going to be hard to stop us."

If Saturday's first scrimmage of fall practice is any indication, this year could be exciting. Kendial Lawrence took a Jimmy Costello pass 60 yards for the first touchdown and Washington took a short reception 47 yards for a score.

"I think we looked ok, but ok isn't good enough." said head coach Gary Pinkel. "We will continue to work hard and we have a chance to be a good football team but we have a lot of work to do."

Freshman James Franklin, the odds on favorite to take over the back-up role, connected on 17 of his 26 pass attempt for a 125 yards.