Saturday’s game between Middle Tennessee State and Memphis is important as the Tigers aim to bounce back from last week’s shocking 56-44 defeat to Navy. Memphis was outmatched by Navy’s vaunted Triple Option attack, with quarterback Blake Horvath stealing the spotlight, amassing 403 total yards and six touchdowns. The Tigers’ defense, rock-solid just a week prior in their dominant win over Florida State, crumbled under Navy’s relentless offense, surrendering over 511 yards. This stunning loss has seriously affected Memphis’ hopes of qualifying for the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff.
With conference play looming, the Tigers now face a critical juncture in their season. Memphis will need to win out and capture the AAC title to have any shot at postseason success. Saturday’s matchup against Middle Tennessee is a pivotal opportunity for the Tigers to address their defensive issues and regain momentum. It’s their final nonconference game before the AAC grind begins, and a victory here is vital for restoring confidence and building the resilience needed for the battles ahead.
MTSU Scouting Report
The Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders are undergoing a significant transition under the leadership of first-year head coach Derek Mason. Mason, a former head coach of Vanderbilt and defensive coordinator at Auburn and Oklahoma State, inherited a program that spent 18 years under the stewardship of Rick Stockstill, who was fired following a long tenure. Mason’s first year at the helm has been challenging, as the Blue Raiders are currently sitting at 1-3, having suffered three consecutive blowout defeats. Their only victory came against Tennessee Tech, a far cry from the competitive edge needed for a stronger season.
Statistically, MTSU ranks near the bottom of the nation in most categories on both offense and defense, underscoring the steep rebuild facing Mason and his team. The personnel currently in place has struggled to field a competitive product consistently, and Saturday’s matchup against Memphis will test whether they can improve upon their early-season woes. For the Tigers, this game provides an opportunity to iron out the issues that plagued them in their loss to Navy, especially on the defensive side of the ball, and to reset the tone as they prepare for the rigorous AAC schedule.
Score Prediction
Expect the Blue Raiders to endure another lopsided defeat, marking their third consecutive blowout loss. Memphis, eager to make a statement after their tough loss to Navy, should dominate this game from start to finish. Following this matchup, the Tigers will focus on a crucial conference showdown against South Florida in another pivotal game on their path to redemption.
Prediction: MTSU 17
Memphis 49
Show Your Support
Show your support for the Memphis Wire on Sports View 360 by exploring and purchasing licensed NCAA fan gear. From stylish Memphis hats, jerseys, and t-shirts to cozy socks and much more, our collection offers a range of options to showcase your team spirit. By purchasing through the text link provided below, you contribute to the funding of the Sports View 360 platform, enabling us to continue providing comprehensive coverage and engaging content. If interested, click the link below and browse our Memphis Tigers fan gear selection. Your support is greatly appreciated.
Memphis Tigers Fan Gear Offers from Fanatics.com
