Columbia, Mo. ? While Brad Smith remains the poster boy for Missouri, a group of young defenders led by another Smith has provided the spark propelling MU into the Top 25 for the first time in five years.

Missouri’s defense and special teams — units that have been weak spots the past five years — have kept the Tigers in close games and put the team’s slow-starting offense in position to score. Redshirt freshman Brian Smith has been particularly impressive at defensive end, leading the Tigers with five sacks and three forced fumbles.

“The defense is winning games for us right now,” offensive lineman Rob Droege said. “We’re putting points on the board, but they’ve given us incredible field position the last couple games. They’re scoring points and stuffing teams and it’s really helping the offense along.”

Brian Smith is one of five first-year starters for the No. 23 Tigers (3-0). Cornerback Calvin Washington played primarily on special teams in 2001 before redshirting last year. Other newcomers include defensive ends Zach Ville, safety Nino Williams II and defensive back Dedrick Harrington.

The Tigers, who have allowed only 22 points in three games, rank fourth in the nation in scoring defense. They have yet to allow a rushing touchdown this season. But Missouri coach Gary Pinkel said it’s still “very early.”

“I think we can make a lot of progress on defense because five of those players have now just played three games,” said Pinkel, whose team plays host to Middle Tennessee today before playing next Saturday at Kansas.

Missouri has also received contributions from Brandon Barnes, who has switched from wide receiver to safety to linebacker, and defensive tackle Atiyyah Ellison, who moved inside from defensive end.

The young squad has forced five turnovers in its first three games. Redshirt freshman Josh Hibbets, a former quarterback, provided another boost with two blocked punts Saturday against Eastern Illinois.

Middle Tennessee coach Andy McCollum said the Tigers got his attention with their zone blitz and the amount of times they rushed five men.

“The thing that impresses me the most is that they play hard,” McCollum said. “They are running to the football — everybody. That’s where you get started on defense.”

The Tigers ended the 1998 season nationally ranked. Over the next four seasons they struggled on defense, allowing more than 30 points per game.

Brian Smith’s quick start has impressed Pinkel.

“He is a different level of competitor than I’ve been around,” Pinkel said. “Time will tell where I rank him with some of the great competitors I’ve been around. But he’s got a motor that flat goes — and determination. He gets beat sometimes, but he’ll come back after you.”