Memphis’ (5-1, 1-1) stiff defense will face one of its toughest opponents on Saturday when the Tigers take on North Texas (5-1, 2-0).
Memphis quarterback Seth Henigan said it best: “I know they’re a high-octane offense, and we have a really good defense.”
North Texas’ quick-strike offense ranks 13th in scoring offense, averaging 40.8 points per game.
It’s hard to mention North Texas without talking about TCU transfer quarterback Chandler Morris, who has totaled 1,979 passing yards (6th in CFB) and 20 passing TDs (T-1st in CFB).
However, a catalyst for this explosive offense is junior receiver DT Sheffield.
Sheffield, a Mississippi native, spent three seasons at Northwest Mississippi Community College and was teammates with Memphis kicker Tanner Gillis.
Sheffield spent the 2023 season at Washington State, yet barely saw the field, totaling only 70 snaps all year.
But in 2024, Sheffield is right at home in Denton as the star receiver of one of the nation's best offenses.
Sheffield tells me that the Mean Green’s offense is so successful because of “our ability to run and pass the ball very well and our athletes’ abilities to make plays.”
Memphis ranks 13th nationally in scoring defense, giving up only 15.5 points per game. Yet this defense is not invincible.
According to Sheffield, the easiest way to exploit Memphis’ defense is to “win my match up and find holes in the zone.”
And Sheffield has been finding holes in defenses all year long. His 443 receiving yards are fourth in the American Athletic Conference, and his 7 touchdowns are the top mark in the conference, ranking him tied for fifth nationally.
Sheffield credits his mastery of the playbook and trust in QB Chandler Morris for his success.
Sheffield did not mention his game-breaking speed, acceleration, and burst—I guess he wants to let his game do the talking.
Sheffield, a native Corinth Mississippian, grew up a sub-two hour drive from the University of Memphis and is looking forward to playing what may be the biggest game of North Texas’ season. “You can expect a lot from me this game,” Sheffield said. “I have tons of family and friends coming out to watch, so it will be fun.”
“You can expect me to keep my foot on the gas every game and not let up until we win the conference championship.”
As long as DT Sheffield and Chandler Morris continue to trust each other, expect Memphis to have difficulty handling one of the most explosive duos in college football.
Reach Rivals Staff Writer Sam Shoemaker on X @s_shoemaker52 or email sjshmker@memphis.edu
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