Pinkel looking for receivers to step up and help the young quarterback L.G. Patterson AP Photo
With the suspension of Maty Mauk continuing, Drew Lock will resume his role as the starter at quarterback for Missouri.
Since defeating South Carolina in his first start, the true freshman signal-caller has lost two games in a row. The offense as a whole is lacking in terms of consistency. Not only has Lock made some mistakes (which is to be expected for such a young player), but the entire offense has struggled to an extent.
Averaging less than 17 points per game on the year, Missouri is in desperate need of some explosive plays. The receiver corps hasn't quite provided that for its young quarterback. Nate Brown is the leading receiver on the team with only 20 catches through the first seven games. Whether it's scheme or personnel, there hasn't been much attempt to stretch opposing defenses vertically with passes down the field.
Emanuel Hall could be an option for Lock to throw to. Also a freshman, the Tennessee native has only three catches for 25 yards on the season. With that said, Gary Pinkel appears high on his potential.
If multiple receivers can "up" their respective play, it would go a long way in assisting Lock's development as a starting quarterback.
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