Tony Temple left Tiger fans craving for more after his record setting game at the 2008 Cotton Bowl, but this season, fans are welcoming a new runner in the end zone.

Averaging ten plays a game last year, sophomore Derrick Washington is far from inexperienced.

"With the experience of playing last year, made him a much better player this year. And he helped us win last year, but it made him a much better player. If he wouldn't have redshirted and not played, there's no way he would look like he does right now," said Missouri Football Coach Gary Pinkel.

"I mean he played a little bit last year, had some carries last year, but he played exceptionally well. I didn't count one time when the first guy tackling brought him down," stated Senior Quarterback Chase Daniel.

And in his first collegiate start against Illinois, Washington ran for 130 yards with two touchdowns.

"I had to get in there. I had to take a couple of hits to get in, and that's exactly what I did. I was excited, you know," explained Washington.

And Washington is quick to credit Temple for some of his success.

"I gained a lot of experience from last year, just talking to Tony and even playing. Everything worked out fine. You know, I always talk to Tony. I still talk to him today. He said, 'You know, do you. Work hard. You know, everybody, just show everybody what you can do and just pray," said Washington. 

"He's definitely going to be the type of running back that when he gets the ball, he can go the distance at any time," explained Sean Weatherspoon.

Washington will be going the distance for the Tigers for three more years.

Washington attend Ray-Pec High School. He scored 83 touchdowns and gained 55 hundred total yards for the Panthers.

Posted by: Jessie Fowble