Missouri Tigers release depth chart for season opener

With less than a week before a contest versus in-state rival Southeast Missouri State, the Missouri Tigers released their week 1 depth chart. 

At first glance, there's a theme of younger players littered throughout the two-deep. 

The inexperienced defensive line features high-profile youngsters Terry Beckner, Jr. and Nate Howard. Drew Lock is ensconced as the second-string signal-caller behind returning starter Maty Mauk. 

Head coach Gary Pinkel had high praise for Beckner, Jr. "He just really embraced Coach [Craig Kuligowski] and the habits and the learning. You've got this remarkable ability. He just got better and better and better. It was neat to see. Very, very talented guy with a great future."

Fellow true freshman Corey Fatony is playing an integral role as the starting punter. Lastly, a vast majority of the wide receiver corps two-deep are sophomores and redshirt freshmen.

When speaking about the freshmen in particular, Pinkel said, "It's a very talented class. There's a lot of guys who will get some great opportunities."

The two glaring omissions from the depth chart are receiver Wesley Leftwich and safety Cortland Browning. Both should be back within the next two weeks or so. 

In general, this is a somewhat young and inexperienced team. It might be a tall task to win the SEC East Division for a third-straight year. Regardless, Pinkel has some nice pieces to build towards the future with.