Why ‘Comfortability’ is Key Component for Mizzou CB Kris Abrams-Draine

The Missouri Tigers had one of many worst defenses primarily based on complete yards allowed within the SEC final season. 

However this was hardly because of the standout play within the secondary by cornerback Kris Abrams-Draine, who used his ball abilities as a former receiver to snag three picks final season, which tied him for third within the convention. He additionally had seven passes defended, which was greater than any participant who had 4 or extra picks within the SEC.

On the floor, the numbers present that with 445.4 yards surrendered per recreation, the Tigers have been second-worst within the convention. This was forward of solely 2-10 Vanderbilt. However the secondary, which allowed the sixth-fewest passing yards per contest (216.1) and had two defensive backs end within the prime three within the convention in complete interceptions, was hardly in charge.

So with positives to construct on as he enters his second full season as a defensive again, Abrams-Draine is able to make extra huge adjustments. He’ll be transferring from the slot to the skin cornerback place, one thing he is studying whereas additionally getting used to the brand new defensive scheme below new defensive coordinator Blake Baker. 

“I believe at first it was arduous to grasp, however we simply began going into each little element and I believe everyone bought a superb hook of the brand new scheme,” Abrams-Draine stated. “I really feel snug. Quite a lot of extra work to do, however I really feel snug as of proper now.”

Abrams-Draine was arguably probably the most underrated defensive backs within the SEC final season. Now on the skin, he’ll must match up with some larger receivers in one-on-one conditions. 

“I am nonetheless studying, however I am beginning to get the grasp of it as of proper now,” he stated. “On the skin nook, you actually on an island, however within the slot you bought slightly extra assist. (It is) probably not (harder), you simply must focus and work on the little particulars.”

Abrams-Draine’s efficiency final season garnered some nationwide consideration regardless of Mizzou’s 6-7 file. However he is not targeted on the skin noise when there’s nonetheless a lot to show.

“Actually I have not been like paying consideration trigger if I do not do nothing this yr, then it’s going to all go away,” he stated. So I’ve actually simply been specializing in the season.”

Abrams-Draine additionally returned kicks on particular groups final season and proved his worth and flexibility prolong past the defensive aspect of the ball. In a 62-24 loss to the Tennessee Volunteers on Oct. 2, Abrams-Draine was one of many lone sparks for the Tigers, as he had a 100-yard kickoff return for a landing within the third quarter as Mizzou trailed huge.

Regardless of shifting his focus towards the secondary, how does he really feel about being a continued special-teams contributor? 

“Yeah I am good with doing all that, however I do not know if I am gonna do all that,” he stated. “It is as much as the coaches.”

With pace and confirmed ball abilities, do not be shocked if Abrams-Draine takes one other one to the home on both a pick-six or a kick return subsequent season if given the chance. This can possible be simply considered one of many performs that make the nation notice who No. 14 within the Mizzou secondary is. 

You possibly can comply with Zach Dimmitt on Twitter at @ZachDimmitt7

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