MU's Christopher makes quiet impact at linebacker for Tigers

COLUMBIA, Mo. -- Missouri linebacker Brock Christopher isn't one to say much on the field, but with his production as a three-year starter it's easy to see why he doesn't have to.

With 34 career starts and 294 total tackles, the senior has always been the type to go about his business in a low-key manner.

"I have a brother who plays football at Northwest Missouri State and he is the same way as I am," Christopher said. "I guess it runs in the family."

Christopher came to Columbia as part of the 2005 recruiting class that included Chase Daniel and Chase Coffman. Just like those two players, coaches decided against putting a redshirt on him after a strong showing in summer practices. It wasn't something Christopher expected.

"I felt I needed more time to grow, but I played well enough in camp and earned my spot," Christopher said. "I was mature enough at the time to handle it, and that's what they look at when playing true freshmen."

Christopher made 31 tackles with an interception and a forced fumble in his freshman season. His number of tackles nearly tripled when he entered the starting lineup in 2006.

Teammates say Christopher's impact on his squad can be felt mentally and physically.

"He may not say a lot, but he can put the fork right in you at the end of the game," said linebacker Sean Weatherspoon.

Christopher did just that last Saturday in a 31-28 victory at Baylor.

After Missouri kicked a late field goal to go up three points with under two minutes, the Bears' final drive ended when Christopher intercepted quarterback Robert Griffin. It was the first interception thrown in 209 attempts by Griffin.

"In order to close the game, it was on the defense," Christopher said. "We had to stop that play."

It was Christopher's second interception of the season. It's one fewer than Weatherspoon, who leads the team in total tackles.

Weatherspoon's exploits get attention that is directly related to his vivacious personality, which suits Christopher just fine.

"I like to keep to myself more, and do my job, and make plays when I can," Christopher said. "We both get our jobs done, but we're two different types of players. "

Weatherspoon said Christopher is a balance between his loud personality on one side and the youth of sophomore Luke Lambert on the other.

"Coaches tell me to be a leader in good times and bad, and I try to do that as best as I can," Christopher said. "One of the hardest things to do is lead in bad times, but somebody has to do it."