Written By: Ryan Musich
HOUSTON, Texas—Going into this weekend’s matchup against No. 21 Memphis (8-1, 5-1 AAC), the SMU Mustangs (6-4, 3-3) have lost two games in a row to conference opponents. Both losses were heartbreakers as the Mustangs lost 31-24 to then No. 18 UCF and then 43-40 loss on the road to a tough Navy team.
Putting a stop to this two-game losing streak will not be easy for SMU as Memphis enters Saturday’s game winners of their last five games. Led by quarterback Riley Ferguson, Memphis has made quick and easy work of their most recent opponents Tulsa and Tulane.
To make matters worse for SMU, Memphis is coming off of its bye week and are surely going to be well rested and well prepared.
SMU will lean heavily on their explosive offense, more specifically their passing game. Quarterback Ben Hicks will be looking to get the ball to receivers Trey Quinn, Courtland Sutton, and James Poche.
If the numbers mean anything, SMU will have a hard time trying to get a ground attack going as Memphis has allowed their foes a little over 195 yards a game on the ground. The only real vulnerability on that Tiger defense is through the air.
Another thing to look out for this game will be the Tigers running backs against SMU’s defensive line. Last game against Navy, SMU allowed 559 yards to the Midshipmen. Tigers running backs Darrel Henderson and Patrick Taylor Jr. will be a huge test for a defense that has had a tough time stopping other teams running backs.
I have Memphis winning this one in a shootout. Ferguson will keep rolling and will throw for four touchdowns, Henderson will reach the end zone as well. SMU’s offense will also have a great day as well, but the Mustangs defense will be the last one to blink. Memphis will keep rolling 42-35.
