Defensive theory is simple. Make a team one dimensional and everything else falls into place.

“If they can’t do both then we have the advantage,” OU safety Nic Harris said.

But what do you do with a player like Missouri quarterback Chase Daniel? Which dimension do you take away?

The obvious answer is the run. But that’s easier said than done. Against most teams that means clogging up running lanes and holding running backs in check.

OU will try to do those things against the Tigers, but it might not be enough.

Daniel adds an element not present most Saturdays. Throwing for an average of 342 yards a game and three touchdowns per game puts him in an elite class of Big 12 quarterbacks.

He’s helped turn the Tigers into one of the best passing offenses in the Big 12 Conference.

Averaging over 4 yards per carry raises him to another level.

“He’s a different kind of player,” OU defensive end Auston English said. “He makes a lot more plays with his feet than you normally see with a quarterback.”

Daniel is certainly no secret around the Big 12. He threw for 274 yards and ran for another 70 against the Sooners last season.

He’s picked right up where he left off.

Last week against Nebraska, the junior from Southlake, Texas, riddled the Huskers for four touchdown passes and rushing for another 72 yards.

Missouri, with good reason, is actively promoting Daniel for Heisman Trophy consideration. His performance against Nebraska vaulted him into the national spotlight. The light will be even brighter this week.

“It’s great recognition, but it’s not even halfway through the season. I had one good game, so what?” Daniel said. “It’s putting those great games and strings back-to-back. This is what we strive for here at Missouri and it’s great recognition for the team.”

Missouri is a team searching for that respect. They’ve already beaten No. 18 Illinois and the Huskers. But beating the Sooners would solidify the Tigers as a power team in the Big 12, putting them into the national championship race.