Memphis takes on FCS foe North Alabama to kickoff the 2024 season
One of the more anticipated seasons in Tigers Football history gets underway on Saturday against North Alabama- a team they have faced before and beaten soundly (59-0 in 2022). While many are anticipating an easy win- Memphis is a 37.5 point favorite- there are still a few things that will be interesting to watch unfold.
1. A fast start
In the past, Memphis has struggled at times out of the gate. That should not be the case against a team like North Alabama. The Lions are drastically undersized and can't match the athleticism of Memphis' offense. Even though they will likely be very conservative in the play calling, Memphis should come out early and be more aggressive.
Look for Memphis to play fast early on to put the Lions defense on their heels. Memphis should establish a run game against a defense that gave up 176 yards rushing to Southeast Missouri in the FCS Kickoff game last week.
2. Defensive Consistency
In there last outing, Memphis held Iowa State to 0 yards rushing in the win over the Cyclones in the 2023 Liberty Bowl. That being said, Memphis did give up over 400 yards passing. With a solid returning unit, including Davion Ross who is returning from a significant knee injury, Memphis should be able to get pressure and force the North Alabama offense to turn the ball over. Despite the quality of competition, Memphis needs to come out and play a dominant game to gain confidence as they move into the more difficult tasks ahead.
3. Let the Kids Play
These types of games that coaches both love and hate. They hate them because occasionally, they will give a team a false sense of accomplishment. They love them because they not only offer the opportunity to have the starters get a game under their belt, but games such as this usually afford the opportunity to allow younger players to see game action. With the redshirt rule allowing players to play in 4 contests and still keep their redshirt, it's an opportunity for kids to earn more playing time- and getting prepared for game action should the inevitable injuries occur throughout the season.
Notes:
- Memphis has won 10 straight home openers with the last loss coming in 2013 against UT-Martin
- Memphis leads the nation with 27 consecutive games with more than 20 points dating back to a 38-22 win over Tulane in 2021.
- Memphis is 26-1 against non-conference opponents at home in their last 27 games. The lone loss was to UTSA in 2021 (the Roadrunners were in CUSA at the time)
Conclusion
This is quite possibly the biggest, strongest, and fastest team Memphis has ever fielded. Memphis should have no problems dispatching the Lions and showing how dominant they can be.
Weather may cause some issues in the passing game, but Memphis has a stable of backs that are more than up to the task. They also practiced twice at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, so the "Liberty Hole" should not impact them.
Score Prediction: Memphis 63, North Alabama 7.
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