In a game Memphis needed to win to keep AAC title hopes alive, the Tigers lost momentum and could not regain it.
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After taking an early 24-14 lead, the Tigers lost momentum and allowed 28 straight points.
First Half:
In Memphis' first drive of the game, the high-scoring theme was set as running back Mario Anderson took a 16-yard run in for the first score of the day.
UTSA's first offensive drive featured a seven-play, 75-yard drive capped off by UTSA tight-end Houston Thomas' nine-yard touchdown reception.
And UTSA's tight-end onslaught did not slow down. On top of Thomas' touchdown, both tight ends Dan Dishman (5 yds) and Patrick Overmeyer (4 yds) grabbed touchdowns for the Roadrunners.
Quarterback Seth Henigan was nearly perfect in the first half for the Tigers as he competed 18/22 of his passes for 266 yards and two touchdowns.
Both of Henigan's touchdowns were completed to receiver Demeer Blankumsee who had six catches for 142 first-half yards. But on his second touchdown, a 69-yard beauty, Blankumsee styled Ronaldo's signature celebration and hyperextended his knee on the way down.
Although the game was tied 24-24 at the half, UTSA's defense was a major first-half storyline. The Tigers handed the ball to Mario Anderson twice on fourth and one and were denied both times.
Second Half:
After the teams traded three-and-outs to begin the half, the Roadrunners gained the lead (31-24) and momentum with another Tight end touchdown from Houston Thomas.
Memphis' first two drives of the third quarter netted -17 yards.
At the end of the third quarter, Roc Taylor suffered an injury and held his back and side in pain. He eventually was helped up and walked on his own.
Two plays later, Henigan was intercepted by Jermarius Lewis while targeting tight end Anthony Landphere.
But the Memphis defense made a big stop on fourth down, thanks to a DJ Bell pass breakup.
Two plays later, Roc Taylor fumbled and lost the ball due to a Syrus Dumas punchout.
UTSA gave the Tigers many chances to get back in the ball game, but Memphis' second-half donut.
Eventually, Roadrunner Brandon High punched in a two-yard touchdown, giving UTSA a 41-24 lead with 6:53 left in the game.
In the final two minutes of the contest, both Koby Drake and Mario Anderson scored Memphis’ first points of the second half to make a 36-44 loss to the Roadrunners look more respectable.
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