After wobbly performances at Vanderbilt and Kentucky, coach Barry Odom’s defense saved some face in last Saturday’s 27-0 loss at Georgia. The final score looked worse than the damage Mizzou’s defense absorbed. If there’s something to keep fans watching as the Tigers (5-4, 2-3 Southeastern Conference) enter their final quarter of the regular season, the core of an emerging defense offers promise and hope.

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If the Tigers can salvage this season with any sense of dignity, starting with an upset Saturday against No. 11 Florida (8-2, 5-2), their best chance starts with Nick Bolton and Tyree Gillespie.