Moore fights through injuries

COLUMBIA, Mo. -- No Missouri defensive player came into 2008 with higher expectations than senior free safety William Moore. And after a start slowed by injuries, the Hayti, Mo., native is rounding back into the form that made him an All-American in 2007.

"We tell all of our guys that we want them to play their best at the end of the season, and that's what you have been seeing out of him especially," Missouri defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus said.

Moore had 12 tackles in the 12th-ranked Tigers' season-opening 52-42 win over Illinois in St. Louis, but sprained his foot in that game. The injury slowed Moore for an extended period. Then just as it got better, he experienced problems with his shoulder.

Moore had eight interceptions and 117 tackles last season, helping Missouri to a 12-2 record and No. 4 ranking. He had forced only two turnovers through the first 10 games this season -- both fumbles.

"Interceptions don't come free," said Moore, who has 11 career interceptions. "You got some of the best quarterbacks in the country, and there are no excuses, so you have to be in the right place at the right time."

Moore was in the right place in the second quarter of Missouri's 11th game, a 52-20 win over Iowa State on Nov. 15. He broke on a pass from quarterback Austen Arnaud and returned it 17 yards for a touchdown. It was his first interception of the season and fourth touchdown of his career, a school record for a defensive player.

"It felt good, man," Moore said. "First of all, to break that record was one of my goals, and taking one back for a touchdown really got me back into the groove of things."

He ranks fourth on the team with 69 tackles. Eberflus said he is aware of the effect early injuries had on Moore, adding that Moore seems to be getting his swagger back at a critical juncture in the season.

"When you're going into battle, you want all of your weapons, and I think he is gaining those back," Eberflus said.

Missouri (9-2, 5-2 Big 12) closes out the regular season Saturday against Kansas (6-5, 3-4) at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo. Last season, Moore had an interception in the 36-28 win that ended the Jayhawks' bid for an undefeated season and sent Missouri, instead of Kansas, to the Big 12 championship game.

This year, there is no drama -- Missouri has already clinched a spot on the title game Dec. 6, also in Kansas City. But Moore knows Kansas won't be taking the game lightly.

"I know KU's purpose is a little stronger this year, to go out and be that piece to end Missouri's successful season," he said.