Missouri vs Northwestern Point Spread Picks

This has to be a disappointing spot for the Tigers. They had a big season last year and expectations were high, expecting similar results this season. But they fell well short. This team has one of the most explosive offenses in the country. The expectation was that the offense was simply going to be unstoppable and outscore everyone. That was partially true, but what was not considered is the fact that their defense turned other offenses into juggernauts too. The Tigers, considered a top team, allowed 40 or more points four times on the season and top teams simply don't do that. This is a team that moves the ball for around 500 yards per game and averages 43.2 ppg, but had a time of possession deficit of 3.5 minutes per game. That meant that either the offense was scoring quickly or the defense couldn't get stops. The fact is that both are true. The defense finished the season at a disappointing #102 out of 120 teams and allowed 27.5 ppg. Northwestern did not get too much experience playing against big offenses this season playing in the Big-10. The Wildcats' offense has been somewhat effective, but overall ordinary. But they have shown the ability to put up points as they have topped the 30 mark three times and will undoubtedly have success moving the ball against the Tigers. Since Northwestern did not play Penn State, the only team they played with the type of speed Missouri has is Ohio State and they put 45 on the Wildcats. And, Missouri has even more weapons. This one stands to be a shootout and I like this one to go OVER the total.