Recruiting Reset: Depth and Destruction is met with 3-star heavy weight “218”

Missouri’s linebacking corps was stacked with talent, boasting a trio of experienced players in Chuck Hicks, Triston Newson, and Corey Flagg. Additionally, the team welcomed two highly touted freshmen and several redshirt players ready to contribute.

However, depth was a concern. Eli Drinkwitz, the team’s head coach, addressed this issue by bringing in a player from the transfer portal who perfectly fit the team’s needs. This move was a testament to Drinkwitz’s ability to find the right fit for his team, showcasing his expertise in roster management.

Where He Fits: Khalil Jacobs, standing at 6’2″ and weighing 218 pounds, has a build more suited for a safety in the SEC rather than a typical linebacker. He would likely be better suited as a weakside linebacker rather than an inside linebacker. However, during his time at South Alabama, defensive coordinator Corey Batoon utilized Jacobs in both roles, often to provide relief for one of the Sun Belt’s most disruptive linebackers, Quentin Wilfawn.

In Jacobs’ 421 snaps last season, he was sent to rush the quarterback only 40 times, which accounts for approximately 18% of his total plays. This percentage is relatively low considering his primary position (outside linebacker) and the defensive scheme employed by South Alabama (blitz-heavy).

However, Jacobs’ pressure rate on those 40 rushes stood at an impressive 27.5%, placing him near elite levels. For comparison, Johnny Walker had an 8.9% pressure rate, Darius Robinson recorded 13.1%, and Daylan Carnell, known for his effectiveness, boasted a 37.5% pressure rate last season.Despite only producing 2.5 sacks from those 40 rushes, his 6.3% sack rate would have ranked him 4th on Missouri’s defense from the previous year.

While his pass-rushing opportunities are limited, his efficiency in those situations is notable. This makes him a valuable situational asset to utilize throughout the season, especially as a complement to established starters and experienced backups.

When He’ll Play: As is often the case with high-caliber transfers, they do not join a new program with the intention of riding the bench. Based on this assessment, it appears that Missouri’s defensive coaching staff, particularly Coach Batoon, recognized an opportunity to bring in a player who thrived in the Sun Belt conference, has multiple years of eligibility remaining, and is already familiar with Batoon’s defensive system.

This allows the Missouri defense to add a player who has already learned the system and can complement the group of players who direct the defense on the field, while also providing much-needed depth. The implication is that Jacobs will see playing time in the 2024 season. While he may initially serve as a backup, it is expected that he will contribute on the field, barring any unforeseen circumstances such as injuries. The coaching staff’s decision to bring in Jacobs suggests that they believe he can make a positive impact on the team’s defensive performance.

What It All Means: The one position group that really needed that extra piece has now got it. A defense transitioning to a new coordinator has acquired a player who already knows the playbook. And a standout from the Sun Belt conference gets the opportunity to showcase his talents on the biggest stage in college football. That’s a win-win-win scenario.