The Memphis Tigers kicked off their 2024 football season with a resounding statement, echoing the outcome of their last meeting with North Alabama. The last time these two teams faced off at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, the Tigers steamrolled their opponents with a 59-0 rout. In tonight’s rematch, Memphis proved that history has a way of repeating itself, delivering another dominant performance with a decisive 40-0 victory over North Alabama.
This win not only marks the Tigers’ first victory of the season but also sets the tone for a campaign aimed at reaching new heights under the guidance of fifth-year head coach Ryan Silverfield.
With this impressive shutout to open the season, the Memphis Tigers have shown their readiness to take the next step in their football journey. This article intends to break down the key takeaways from Saturday’s win, providing insights into the strengths and standout performances that emerged from this commanding victory.
Seth Henigan’s Pursuit of Memphis Passing Records Continue
Memphis quarterback Seth Henigan wasted no time in the 2024 season, showing why he’s a key figure in the Tigers’ offensive strategy. Picking up right where he left off in 2023, Henigan delivered another stellar performance in the season opener. He completed 22 of 30 passes, amassing 308 yards through the air and throwing two touchdown passes. Henigan’s precision and ability to spread the ball effectively among multiple receivers were on full display, demonstrating his command of the offense. As he continues to rack up impressive numbers, Henigan is on his way to etching his name in the Memphis football record books. His performance against North Alabama is just the beginning of what promises to be another record-chasing year for the standout quarterback.
A Well-Balanced Approach Proved to Be Vital
Memphis showcased a versatile and balanced offensive strategy that kept North Alabama’s defense guessing throughout the night. Even with a standout receiving talent like Roc Taylor on the field, the Tigers’ offense didn’t rely solely on their number one option. Instead, they distributed the ball effectively, making it difficult for the North Alabama defense to focus on shutting down any single player. Taylor led the way with five receptions for 87 yards, but he wasn’t the only threat. Demeer Blankumsee contributed with three catches for 46 yards, while Koby Drake added 40 yards on three receptions. Eight players caught passes from Seth Henigan, demonstrating the depth and versatility of the Tigers’ receiving corps.
While the passing game flourished, the Tigers’ running game had a quieter night. Mario Anderson led the ground attack with ten carries for 46 yards, finding the end zone twice. Unfortunately, running back Sutton Smith left the game early due to a leg injury and did not return. Despite this setback, the balanced approach on offense was crucial in Memphis’s dominant 40-0 victory, proving that the Tigers can effectively adapt and excel, whether through the air or on the ground.
Related: Memphis Tigers Football 2024 Season Preview
Highly Productive Night from the Memphis Defense
The Memphis defense made a bold statement in the season opener, completely stifling North Alabama’s offense and forcing three crucial turnovers. The Lions struggled to gain offensive traction, as the Tigers’ defense consistently disrupted their rhythm and thwarted any momentum they tried to build. Each time North Alabama seemed on the verge of gaining ground, the Memphis defense stepped up, creating havoc and seizing control of the game.
Those three forced turnovers weren’t just crucial in stalling the Lions; they directly set up multiple scoring opportunities for the Memphis offense, contributing to the Tigers’ commanding 40-0 victory. From the opening whistle to the final play, North Alabama never posed a real threat, as the Tigers outplayed them in every game phase. Memphis’s defensive prowess was a key factor in ensuring that the Lions could not find a way to challenge them, solidifying a strong start to the Tigers’ 2024 campaign.
What Lies Ahead?
After their dominant victory over North Alabama, the Memphis Tigers will remain at home for their second game of the season, facing the Troy Trojans. Unlike their season opener, the upcoming matchup against Troy is expected to be a more challenging test for the Tigers. The Trojans are regarded as the first significant hurdle on Memphis’s 2024 schedule, bringing a reputation for tough, competitive play. This game will better gauge where the Tigers stand and how well they can handle the more formidable competition as they continue their quest for success this season.
