Game Information
When: Thanksgiving Night, Thursday, November 28, 2024, 7:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. CST
Where: Yulman Stadium, New Orleans, Louisiana
TV: ESPN
Odds: Tulane -13.5, Over/Under 56 (via BetUS)
The Memphis Tigers head into their final game of the 2024 regular season with a chance to secure their second consecutive 10-win season. On the other side, the Tulane Green Wave is looking to cement its position as the AAC’s premier program while keeping an outside shot at a College Football Playoff berth alive. With a lot at stake for both teams, let’s break down the best bets for this Thanksgiving night showdown.
Point Spread: Tulane -13.5
Tulane has been a dominant force in the AAC all season, led by one of the most balanced teams in the nation. Quarterback Darian Mensah is the sixth highest-rated quarterback in the country, and running back Makhi Hughes has rushed for over 1,200 yards. Defensively, the Green Wave ranks 11th nationally in total defense, making it one of the toughest units Memphis will face all season.
Memphis, while competitive, has struggled in marquee matchups this season. Losses to Navy and UTSA exposed vulnerabilities, particularly on defense, which ranks 78th nationally in yards allowed per play. Tulane’s offensive firepower and home-field advantage should allow them to cover the 13.5-point spread in this matchup.
Bet: Tulane -13.5
Over/Under: 56 Points
Memphis boasts a high-powered offense, averaging 34.8 points per game (19th nationally), led by quarterback Seth Henigan and running back Mario Anderson. However, Tulane’s defense has been elite, allowing just 18.7 points per game (12th nationally). On the flip side, Tulane’s offense averages 39.3 points per game, with a balanced attack that can exploit Memphis’ defensive lapses.
While both teams are capable of lighting up the scoreboard, Tulane’s ability to control the pace of the game, coupled with their stout defense, suggests this game may lean slightly under the projected 56-point total.
Bet: Under 56 Points
Player Props to Watch
Mario Anderson Over 92.5 Rushing Yards
Mario Anderson has been the heart of the Memphis offense this season, rushing for 1,115 yards and 16 touchdowns. Tulane’s run defense is strong, allowing just 114.5 yards per game, but Anderson’s ability to grind out tough yards and Memphis’ reliance on the ground game make him a solid pick to eclipse this mark.
Darian Mensah Over 2.5 Total Touchdowns
Mensah has accounted for 26 total touchdowns this season (18 passing, 8 rushing). Against a Memphis defense that ranks 113th in passing yards allowed per game, Mensah should have opportunities to find the end zone multiple times.
Makhi Hughes Over 110.5 Rushing Yards
With 1,291 rushing yards on the season, Hughes ranks fifth nationally and has been the focal point of Tulane’s offense. Memphis has struggled against elite rushing attacks, and Hughes should be able to exploit their defensive weaknesses.
Key Matchups
1. Memphis Run Defense vs. Makhi Hughes
The Tigers’ run defense has been inconsistent, allowing 112.3 yards per game but struggling against top-tier backs. Hughes, averaging 5.0 yards per carry, could dominate if Memphis fails to contain him early.
2. Seth Henigan vs. Tulane Secondary
Henigan will face one of the AAC’s best secondaries, which allows fewer than 200 passing yards per game and has consistently forced turnovers. Protecting the ball will be crucial for Henigan to keep Memphis competitive.
3. Darian Mensah vs. Memphis Pass Rush
The Tigers’ pass rush, led by linebacker Chandler Martin, will need to pressure Mensah and force him into quick decisions. If Mensah has time to operate, Tulane’s offense will be nearly unstoppable.
Score Prediction
Tulane has been the most complete team in the AAC this season, and their consistency on both sides of the ball gives them a decisive edge. While Memphis will likely put up a fight, the Green Wave’s firepower, balanced attack, and defensive discipline should allow them to secure a comfortable win.
Prediction: Tulane 49, Memphis 38
Tulane will close out the regular season with a victory, keeping their slim College Football Playoff hopes alive and setting the stage for an AAC title showdown with Army. Memphis, despite the loss, can look back on a solid season as they prepare for bowl season.
Place your bets on this thrilling AAC matchup with BetUS, our official affiliate partner. Click here to bet now!
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