Missouri hires LSU’s former linebacker coach Blake Baker

Former LSU linebackers coach Blake Baker will now coach Safeties at Missouri for the Tigers. Baker joined LSU’s coaching staff last year. Before that, Baker was the defensive coordinator at the University of Miami for two years. Baker was also was the defensive coordinator at Louisianan Tech.

Baker was key to the success of Tigers linebacker Damone Clark. The linebacker career at LSU started slowly until coach baker joined the staff. Baker did an excellent job getting Clark to play fast trusting his instincts and skill set. Another critical component was paying attention to detail.

Under Baker’s teachings, Clark had the best season as a Tiger. Clark finished the season with 135 tackles, 15 tackles for a loss, 5.5 sacks, and one interception. Under Baker, Clark played very aggressively and fast, and it paid off. With his play, Clark shot up many scouts’ draft boards. He is now the No. 5 rated inside linebacker on Mel Kiper’s Jr. player rankings.

Under Baker, Missouri safeties will play aggressively. He comes from the Manny Diaz coaching tree; like Diaz, he believes in an aggressive, attacking style of defense that will put opposing offenses in uncomfortable situations. So look for Missouri safeties to fly all over the field, looking to make plays.