True freshman Boehm should see playing time for Tigers

COLUMBIA, Mo. - No one ever said life in the Southeastern Conference would be easy for Missouri.

And that was before a rash of injuries hit the Tigers' offensive line for the second consecutive season. Now, Missouri must face opponents known for their defensive prowess, with a younger, less experienced offensive line.

With starting left guard Travis Ruth (triceps) and reserve tackle Taylor Chappel (knee) out for the season, players such as true freshman Evan Boehm and junior walk-on Max Copeland are pushing to fill the void left by Ruth. Missouri got a boost when starting right tackle Justin Britt returned to practice Saturday after missing the first part of camp with a foot injury.

Boehm has received rave reviews from his coaches and teammates during camp. Only a handful of true freshman offensive linemen have ever started in Gary Pinkel's career as a head coach.