The Memphis Tigers face their first home conference game of the season Saturday 11 AM. The Temple Owls bring their 2-2 record into the Liberty Bowl for the first conference game for both squads. The Memphis Tigers vs Temple Owls preview must focus on both the strengths and the weaknesses of two untested, young squads.
Temple Owls Preview (Offense)
The Temple Owls are led by a familiar quarterback name. Noted reporter Pete Thamel said the Temple QB starter would be E.J. Warner(son of Hall of Famer QB Kurt Warner). He and the Temple Owls will face a ferocious Memphis Tigers defense. The Tigers defense is led by veteran Quindell Johnson, who has forced multiple turnovers this season. Last week’s defensive stud was Xavier Cullens, who was honored on last week’s AAC honor roll. He intercepted a pass for a pick-six, recovered a fumble as well. Johnson provides a defensive turnover threat as well, having forced two fumbles and intercepted two passes for the year. For the Temple offense, Adonicas Sanders has become Warner’s go-to receiver, from this article from Philadelphia Inquirer, subscription required)
Memphis Tigers Preview (Offense)
Seth Henigan has been outstanding at times and reliable at worst. Currently, he ranks 32nd nationally in QB efficiency. His favorite targets have been Tight End Caden Prieskorn and Wide Receiver Javon Ivory. Last week was the first week in several he didn’t pass to Joseph Scates, WR. He’s not on the injury report and there’s been no mention of whether he will play or not this week.
Brandon Thomas is the Tiger’s starting running back and has been hitting his stride, including a two-yard touchdown last week. Jevyon Ducker gets a lot of touches, is explosive, and could be a factor. They will face a Temple rushing defense that’s 57th in the country but a passing defense that’s 5th in the nation for yards gained. That could mean an extra emphasis on the rush game this week; but each week Seth Henigan has passed at will when given the opportunity.
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