Eli Drinkwitz criticizes SEC officials, team simultaneously vs. Texas A&M

Texas A&M took a 7-0 lead into the second quarter against Missouri. Not too much offensive success for either team throughout most of the opening frame before Marcel Reed put together a nice drive. Mizzou head coach Eli Drinkwitz now has to put something different to get them going.

It’s consistency that Drinkwitz wants to see from his offense. Defensively, he believes Missouri is playing alright and up to his standard. But at the end of talking to ESPN’s Katie George, Drinkwitz did call out officiating in the game — possibly disguising the criticism as a callout of his own team.

“We’ve just got to establish some kind of rhythm,” Drinkwitz said. “Consistent plays instead of just one hitters. We’ve had two big plays and too many little ones. Defensively, we’re playing good. You know, we’re just going to have to figure out these foul calls. Because it’s four calls against us and zero against us. So, we’ve got to do a better job.”

ESPN’s broadcast flashed back to last year’s game between these two in College Station, talking about the role officiating played early on. Drinkwitz found himself unhappy with some calls/non-calls there too, before Texas A&M stormed out of a massive lead. Missouri did not possess enough firepower to get back on track, eventually losing 41-10.

Getting back to Saturday — Drinkwitz was a little bit off, as only three flags have been accepted on Missouri for a total of 31 yards. Many inside Faurot Field feel as if a couple of defensive penalties were not called against Texas A&M during downfield passing plays.

No matter who was getting called out by Drinkwitz, a marker did get thrown on Texas A&M not too long after the interview. The Aggies were called for holding on a second-down play, helping Missouri eventually get off the field defensively.

Either way, an important stretch is upcoming for Mizzou. Drinkwitz has been honest about his team’s chances this season when it comes to long-term goals. Losing to Vanderbilt effectively ended the thought of making it the Atlanta for the SEC Championship game. However, he does believe a spot in the College Football Playoff remains possible.

Drinkwitz is likely hoping a subtle shoutout to his team helps light a spark. At the same time, you know the head coach wants some more calls coming his way. A nice double-meaning interview in the middle of the game.