The Memphis Tigers, fresh off a thrilling 52-44 victory over North Texas, head back to Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium for another pivotal AAC showdown, this time against the Charlotte 49ers. With a 6-1 record, the Tigers have secured bowl eligibility for the 11th straight year, but their sights are set on much more significant aspirations. The AAC title remains within reach, and with every game carrying playoff implications, Memphis cannot afford any missteps. Their next challenge is Charlotte, a team eager to play spoiler and make its mark in conference play.
For Memphis, consistency and momentum are the goals heading into this game. Last season’s matchup against Charlotte saw the Tigers win a nail-biting overtime victory. With AAC competition heating up, Memphis must keep its focus and capitalize on home-field advantage to overcome a hungry 49ers team. Here’s a full preview, scouting report, and score prediction for the Memphis Tigers’ Week 9 clash against Charlotte.
Scouting Report: Charlotte 49ers
Head Coach: Biff Poggi
Quarterback: Max Brown
Record: 3-4 (2-1 AAC)
The Charlotte 49ers have been an up-and-down team this season, posting a 3-4 record overall with a 2-1 mark in AAC play. Under head coach Biff Poggi, who’s in his second year with the program, Charlotte has shown promise but struggled with consistency. The 49ers boast a balanced offense and a defense that can surprise opponents when performing at its peak, but they’ve yet to find the steady form needed to compete at the top of the AAC.
At the quarterback position, the 49ers have had three different starters this season. For Saturday’s game, it was announced that Max Brown will take the reigns as the 49ers starting QB. At the receiver position, Charlotte has taken a by-committee approach this season. They currently have four players with at least 200 plus receiving yards. Brown’s chemistry with the wideouts will be something to watch, especially if Charlotte tries to exploit Memphis through the air. But the 49ers’ running game is where they afflict the most damage on offense. Current leading rusher Hahsaun Wilson ran for 198 yards and three touchdowns in last year’s matchup between Memphis and Charlotte.
The 49ers have struggled in most statistical categories on defense, particularly against the run. Charlotte ranks near the bottom of the AAC in total defense, which could pose significant problems against a Memphis team that has rediscovered its offensive groove. The Tigers’ ground game, led by standout running back Mario Anderson, will look to take advantage of Charlotte’s porous run defense and control the tempo.
Key Matchups to Watch
1. Memphis Rushing Attack vs. Charlotte Run Defense
Memphis running back Mario Anderson is coming off a career game, racking up 183 rushing yards and four touchdowns against North Texas. With Charlotte’s defense ranking among the AAC’s worst in stopping the run, Anderson has a prime opportunity to continue his dominance. The Memphis offensive line has been consistent, and their ability to open lanes for Anderson will be key in keeping the 49ers on their heels. If Memphis can establish the run early, they’ll force Charlotte to stack the box, opening up big plays in the passing game.
2. Memphis Rush Defense vs. Hahsaun Wilson
The last time the Memphis rush defense could not stop the run was against Navy in Week 4. They surrendered 211 rushing yards by quarterback Blake Horvath and another 58 by fullback Alex Tecza. Charlotte’s Hahsaun Wilson is no stranger to the Memphis defense. In a game where the 49ers almost came away with a victory, Wilson rushed for over 190 yards and three touchdowns in last season’s contest. Since the 200-yard debacle in Week 4, the Tigers’ rush defense has been solid. But if they regress to what was displayed in Annapolis, Memphis Football could be in for a long day.
3. Seth Henigan vs. Charlotte Pass Defense
Seth Henigan has been efficient and reliable, and he’ll have a favorable matchup against Charlotte’s struggling pass defense. Last week, Henigan threw for over 300 yards, distributing the ball effectively to receivers like Damir Blankesee and Koby Drake. If Henigan can replicate his recent success, Memphis should have no trouble putting points on the board. Charlotte’s defensive backs will have their hands full against Memphis’ balanced attack, so Henigan’s decision-making and accuracy will be critical.
Score Prediction
With the Tigers firing on all cylinders offensively and Charlotte struggling to find consistency on defense, Memphis should have the upper hand in this matchup. Mario Anderson’s recent surge suggests that he’ll be a focal point of the Tigers’ game plan, and Charlotte’s run defense is ill-equipped to handle his physical running style. Henigan’s steady presence and the dynamic Memphis receiving corps will further stretch Charlotte’s defense, allowing the Tigers to control the game tempo.
While Charlotte may have a few explosive moments with Jalon Jones’ athleticism and Victor Tucker’s playmaking abilities, the Tigers’ defense has proven adept at making key stops when needed. Given Memphis’ recent performances and advantages on both sides of the ball, they should secure another victory and continue their push toward an AAC title game appearance.
Final Score Prediction: Memphis 41, Charlotte 24
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