COLUMBIA, Mo. – Coming off back-to-back 10-win seasons, Mizzou Football head coach Eli Drinkwitz is thrilled with how his defense looks as spring practices wrap up this weekend.
One of his returning players is Toriano Pride Jr., a cornerback from East St. Louis. Pride became a force last year in his first season with Mizzou after transferring from Clemson. His first Mizzou season ended with 22 tackles, a forced fumble, one defensive touchdown and two interceptions, including a momentum-swinging interception in the 2024 Music City Bowl.
Pride says, “I love being back home,” and closer to his St. Louis roots. He also feels Mizzou’s defense can be one of the most dominant units in the SEC.
“Being part of it, who doesn’t want to be part of a winning team back home? And the SEC.” said Pride. “It’s really the best of both worlds; I’m back home and in the best conference.”
Pride also spoke on the impact of Drinkwitz, spring practices and defensive chemistry as preparations begin for the 2025 Mizzou Football season.