Contrary to past years, Missouri's defense has emerged as a force - their 10-3 season in 2010 proves it. While Missouri has lost players like Aldon Smith and Andrew Gachkar to the NFL, look for guys like LB Zaviar Gooden, CB Kip Edwards and CB E.J. Gaines to play big roles this year for the Tigers' defense.
Missouri's new dedication to defense (sixth in points allowed in '10) will help with their transition to a new quarterback. They appear to have filled the voids on defense nicely with young talent and players with experience, so there shouldn't be any hesitation when the option of selecting Mizzou's defense comes up.