Halftime Hits: No. 1 Oklahoma 24, Missouri 14
Quick thoughts from Norman at halftime:
Franklin MIA: Whatever was making James Franklin successful in the first quarter, Oklahoma figured out how to stop it in the second. Franklin was 5-for-5 for 124 yards, hitting L'Damian Washington and TJ Moe for a couple of long passes downfield. But he was largely ineffective in the second quarter, only completing one pass. His offensive line struggled to protect the edges, but Franklin also simply missed receivers. He ended the half on a better note, but Missouri needs him to improve.
Josey starts fast: For the second straight game, MU running back Henry Josey had an effective first half. It wasn't quite as explosive as last week, but the sophomore helped the Tigers move the chains early on. He'll likely get less carries in the second half as Missouri tries to come back from a ten-point deficit.
Jones taking over: Sooners QB Landry Jones has started to pick apart the Missouri defense as the game has progressed. He's 20-of-29 for 271 yards and two touchdowns. The problem for the Tigers is that most of his completions have gone to wide-open receivers. Shutting down Ryan Broyles somehow would be a step forward, since the Sooners wideout has five more catches (for 97 yards and two TDs) than any other OU receiver.
Heisman Poise: Missouri hasn't recorded a sack or generated much pressure on passing downs, but its not for a lack of trying. The OU offensive line has held up well, but when the Tigers have pressured Jones the QB has simply stepped up and made good throws.
Flags everywhere: Missouri continues to struggle with discipline, amassing five penalties for 32 yards already.
OU asserting dominance now: You get the feeling the game is about to get out of hand for Missouri, with the way Landry Jones is playing. Bottom line for MU: When your defense makes three straight stops on the best team in the nation, your offense can't rattle off four consecutive punts in response. The Tigers have to find more consistency in the second half.