Watch: Kansas players talk about playing Missouri
The Kansas players are getting ready to face Missouri in Columbia on Saturday. Several players including Taylor Davis, D.J. Withers, Calvin Clements and Deshawn Hanika met with the media.
They talked about preparing for the game and what they know about the Border Showdown.
Taylor Davis
Taylor Davis is excited about the team’s first road game, saying it is a great challenge against a talented opponent. He knows about the intensity of the rivalry, noting the historical background shown in videos by the coaches, but their message is staying focused on football. Davis said the secondary has played well so far but expects to be tested with deep passes.
D.J. Withers
D.J. Withers said the team is focused on winning for the state as they prepare for Missouri. He said the Tigers have a strong offensive line and mobile quarterback Beau Pribula, noting the importance of staying disciplined in rushing lanes. Withers called the rivalry bigger than any Kansas State game, and said the team has prepared with crowd noise to handle the hostile road environment and physical Missouri run game.
Calvin Clements
Calvin Clements said the unit has emphasized physicality and performed well but still needs to clean up small details like movement and eye discipline. Growing up in Lawrence, he understands the significance of the KU-Missouri rivalry and has helped teammates learn its history. Clements said the KU offensive line has played well but Missouri’s strong front seven will be a major test. He feels confident about the offense’s progress this season.
Deshawn Hanika
Deshawn Hanika reflected on the KU-Missouri rivalry, recalling attending the game at Arrowhead in 2008. He said the atmosphere as electric. He said the team learned more about the history through a video featuring former players like Darrell Stuckey, which helped everyone understand the meaning. Hanika commented Missouri’s size and defensive talent but stressed execution is a key.
