Game Preview: Memphis vs. Tulane
Friday night at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, the No. 22/23 Memphis Tigers (8-1, 4-1 AAC) host the Tulane Green Wave (6-2, 3-1 AAC) in a pivotal American Athletic Conference clash. The Tigers enter on a two-game win streak after a dominant 38-14 road victory over Rice, while Tulane looks to rebound from a 48-26 loss to UTSA. Jason Smith and Geoff Calkins discussed Ryan Silverfield and the Memphis Tigers on Monday's J&J Show on 92.9 FM ESPN. AUDIO:
Memphis boasts one of the nation’s most consistent offenses, averaging nearly 38 points per game and scoring 20+ in 49 straight contests—the longest active streak in the FBS. Quarterback Brendon Lewis has guided the Tigers’ balanced attack with efficiency (.691 completion rate) and mobility (eight rushing TDs). Running back Frank Peasant and multipurpose threat Sutton Smith headline a deep backfield.
Defensively, Memphis ranks top three in the AAC in scoring defense, red zone defense, and takeaways. Tulane counters with dual-threat quarterback Jake Retzlaff (1,622 passing yards, 513 rushing yards) and a defense led by lineman Harvey Dyson III (4.5 sacks). The Tigers lead the all-time series 25-15-1 and have won three straight over the Green Wave.
Top 5 Things to Watch
1. Brendon Lewis’ dual-threat impact
2. Memphis’ red-zone efficiency (97%)
3. Turnover battle vs. Tulane’s penalty issues
4. Tiger defense containing Jake Retzlaff’s mobility
5. Memphis’ pursuit of a 12th straight home win
Tulane vs. #22/23 Memphis Friday at 8 p.m. live on ESPN from Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium