From Missouri Tigers On SI · · 2m
Donta Simpson proves he's just getting started at Mizzou
The sophomore defensive tackle earned back his single-digit jersey with a dominant pass rush performance against Kansas.
In brief
The sophomore defensive tackle earned back his single-digit jersey with a dominant pass rush performance against Kansas. Simpson's 1.5 sacks in just 13 snaps against Kansas showed elite pass rush ability, and his coach says it's only a preview of what's coming. Originally reported by Missouri Tigers On SI.
Drinkwitz punished Simpson after opener
Simpson played the eighth most snaps against UAPB, but his coach wasn't satisfied. Drinkwitz made him earn his jersey number back all week.
The jersey number demotion
Drinkwitz put Simpson in number 88 instead of 8 to send a message. He had to prove he deserved a single digit.
“I put him in (number) 88 all week instead of eight, just to let him know that you have to play better if you want to wear a single digit”
Simpson earned it back emphatically
The defensive tackle tied for the team lead with 1.5 sacks against Kansas. He matched Daeden Hopkins' total in far fewer snaps.
He did it in just 13 snaps
Simpson's efficiency was remarkable. He accumulated 1.5 sacks in only 13 plays on the field.
A month lost to illness
Simpson missed all of July training due to sickness in late June. He couldn't do any conditioning work with the team.
“We weren't able to get him back until August 12 and so it's been a a process to get him back acclimated”
Less than a month to get ready
Simpson returned to training on August 12. Within weeks, he was playing a key role in the Kansas rivalry game.
Mizzou's pass rush came alive
After just one sack against UAPB, the Tigers recorded four against Kansas. All came in the fourth quarter.
A specialized pass rush weapon
Of Simpson's 13 snaps, 12 were in pass rush situations. He ranked fifth in pass rush snaps despite being 18th in total snaps.
Incredible twitch and speed
Drinkwitz says Simpson's best skill is rushing the passer. His coach emphasized this performance was just a preview.
“One of the best things he does is rush the passer, he's got incredible twitch and speed, which showed in those two sacks”
Teammates notice the grind
Senior linebacker Robert Woodyard Jr. praised Simpson's work ethic. As a fellow transfer, he's watched Simpson put his head down and grind.
“I've seen him work his (butt) off and be able to do what he can do.”
Troy up next at home
Simpson and the Tigers host Troy on Saturday at 6 p.m. The Trojans enter 2-0.
The short version
Simpson's 1.5 sacks in just 13 snaps against Kansas showed elite pass rush ability, and his coach says it's only a preview of what's coming.
