Mizzou defense blocking out uncertainty with Ohio State offense

ARLINGTON, Tx. (KMIZ)

Despite eight players on Ohio State's offense entering the transfer portal, including their starting quarterback, and the uncertainty surrounding if wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. will suit up for the Cotton Bowl, Blake Baker and the Mizzou defense are blocking out the distractions.

"It's about us, and every week that's what we talk about," Mizzou defensive coordinator Blake Baker said. "Regardless of who comes out on the field on Friday night, our guys will be ready to go."

Ohio State is bringing a talented offense with them to AT&T Stadium. The Buckeyes were ranked as the third-best offense in the Big 10 Conference, averaging nearly 33 points per game.

"They remind me honestly of some of the best offenses we've played this year," Baker said.

However, Mizzou's defense and its senior class are soaking in the experience of playing in the Cotton Bowl and focusing on ending this season with one last victory.

"On Monday, I got kind of a little bit emotional," Mizzou defensive lineman Darius Robinson said. "We were signing each other's footballs, and it kind of reminded me of elementary school, the last day of school."

Three of Mizzou's key defensive players will not play in Friday's game. Chad Bailey, Ty'Ron Hopper and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. have all been ruled out for the Cotton Bowl.

Kickoff at AT&T Stadium is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 29 at 7 p.m.