Date: Saturday, September 22nd
Kickoff Time: 7:00pm CT
Location: Liberty Bowl (Memphis, TN)
Watch: ESPN3
Spread: Memphis -31
Darrell Henderson making a strong statement.
Memphis has a star at running back in Henderson, who notched his second consecutive 200+ yard rushing game against Georgia State last week. The Tigers offense could not be stopped in either facet of the game, which was to be expected against an overwhelmed Panthers defense. Looking at the remaining schedule, there doesn’t appear to be a team that can stop this offense unless weather comes into play again. A win here would add to this team’s momentum heading back into conference play.
Does South Alabama have a chance?
If you’re going based on how they did in their three games, it doesn’t look good for the Jaguars. USA lost to Oklahoma State and Louisiana Tech, and beat Texas State. Memphis falls just behind the Cowboys in that list, so you can take that how you will. Memphis is obviously the more talented team. South Alabama showed that it can score some points, so they may get on the board against the Tigers defense.
How a game like this benefits Memphis
If everything goes as expected, or even if most things go how they should, the backups will get some significant playing time again. Memphis has been able to insert their reserves into two games already, and that helps build depth. Giving the second and third string players allows the starters to get some rest while allowing those players to receive valuable reps. If the starters do their jobs, the backups will get a chance to do theirs as well. There isn’t a guarantee of a blowout, but I like the Tigers’ chances.
Prediction
Memphis has scored 55+ points in three of their last five games dating back to last year. This could be the most explosive offense overall that Mike Norvell’s ever had. Brady White and his receivers are a threat to score on every play, and it looks like Henderson is as well. This team has too many weapons for South Alabama to handle, and the scoreboard will reflect that.
Memphis 49 South Alabama 17