Football

BRIAN ROBINSON, SR.: ‘Here’s wishing you a fabulous 2015 birthday celebration!’

April 11, 2015 by Andre Johnson Leave a Comment

SURPRISE!!!! On behalf of NBA Southwest Division Reporter Andre Johnson and the staff of MemphiSport.com, we extend a colossal birthday shout out to avid Detroit Lions fanatic, Brian Robinson, Sr.!

“Brian, man, you are one of the coolest, most likeable individuals I’ve met since my move to Texas. So it is only befitting that our staff wish you a memorable, joyous, exuberant birthday celebration. You know, Jesus made you a fabulous, life-changing, emphatic promise long before you were conceived. That is, He promised that you might have life and that more abundantly. In a nutshell, even on a day such as your birthday, you are a priesthood, a King’s child. So as you enjoy and embrace everything that this day brings, know that God has strategically recorded every trial, tribulation, and setback you’ve endured to this point. In other words, that means your latter days will be better than your past!” (John 10:10; Jeremiah 29:11) — A. Johnson

Filed Under: All-Stars, Football

Former Kentucky Christian DL JeR’yl Christian aiming to impress pro football scouts

March 19, 2015 by Andre Johnson Leave a Comment

DALLAS — The countdown has begun for JeR’yl Christian to witness the chance of lifetime.

“It’s really a big dream to me because I’ve been playing (football) since the age of five,” Christian, a former Kentucky Christian University defensive lineman, said during a recent interview. “I love the passion of the game and can’t anyone hold me back. I’ve work hard each and every day. I’ve dreamed about this day.”

After auditioning for various CFL teams in the coming days at California University of Pennsylvania, for Kentucky Christian University defensive lineman Jer'yl Christian is scheduled to try out for the CFL’s British Columbia Lions in Seattle on May 17. For the 24-year-old Christian, a native of Steubenville, Ohio, that he will be afforded the golden opportunity of putting his football skills on display before pro scouts is something he said he will relish for the rest of his life. (Photos courtesy of KCU Athletics)

CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’ — After auditioning for various CFL teams in the coming days at California University of Pennsylvania, for Kentucky Christian University defensive lineman Jer’yl Christian (No. 49) is scheduled to try out for the CFL’s British Columbia Lions in Seattle on May 17.
For the 24-year-old Christian, a native of Steubenville, Ohio, that he will be afforded the golden opportunity of putting his football skills on display before pro scouts is something he said he will relish for the rest of his life.
(Photos courtesy of KCU Athletics)

The day Christian is alluding to is an organized Canadian Football League tryout at California University of Pennsylvania. Located on 294 acres in the rural establishment of California, Pennsylvania, the school known as “Cal U” is just 35 miles south of Pittsburgh on the banks of the Monongahela River.

According to many who have observed his maturation process on the field, particularly during his collegiate stint, they believe the 6-foot-2, 265-pound defensive lineman is worthy of a shot of playing at the professional level, even the NFL.
“There is no doubt to me the JeR’yl should get a shot at becoming an NFL player,” said Christian’s longtime mentor Michael McIntyre. “The positive attributes that JeR’yl possesses are what is needed in professional football. His character is one of his strengths that are equaled by his perseverance, talent, and dependability.”

After auditioning in the coming days at Cal U, Christian is scheduled to try out for the CFL’s British Columbia Lions in Seattle on May 17.

For the 24-year-old Christian, a native of Steubenville, Ohio, that he will be afforded the golden opportunity of putting his football skills on display before pro scouts is something he said he will relish for the rest of his life.

“There is no doubt to me the JeR’yl should get a shot at becoming an NFL player,” said Christian’s longtime mentor Michael McIntyre. “The positive attributes that JeR’yl possesses are what is needed in professional football. His character is one of his strengths that are equaled by his perseverance, talent, and dependability.”

After a stellar high school career in which he had drawn interests from a host of Division 1 colleges, Christian ultimately decided to take his football talents to Akron University. However, following a red shirt year and the subsequent firing of Akron’s coaching staff, Christian transferred to Kentucky Christian, where he enjoyed three efficient seasons for the NAIA member Knights.

To his credit, Christian helped propelled the Knights to a 5-6 mark this past season, a two-game improvement from the previous year.

Arguably his most productive season at KCU was his junior campaign, which was a coming out party, of sorts, for Christian. That’s because he emerged as a catalyst of the Knights’ defensive unit, having recorded a team-best 57 tackles, including 13 ½ of which was for lost yardage.

LEAST HE FORGET — As he prepares for what undoubtedly is the biggest opportunity of his young life, Christian credits a majority of success to his late grandmother, Barbara June Gardner, who looked after him since birth.
Gardner, who was legally blind, died of a heart attack last year on March 18.

Add to the fact that this rugged defensive lineman — who garnered preseason All-American honors — recorded 5 ½ sacks and had three forced fumbles, and it’s no wonder the possibility exists that many believe his best playing days are ahead of him.

As he prepares for what undoubtedly is the biggest opportunity of his young life, Christian credits a majority of success to his late grandmother, Barbara June Gardner, who looked after him since birth.

Gardner, who was legally blind, died of a heart attack last year on March 18.

REMEMBERING BARB — Christian’s current Facebook profile photo features artwork of him and his late grandmother.

“It really broke my heart,” Christian said of his grandmother’s death. “But I know she’s here with me throughout everything. I just want a chance to prove that I can play at any level.”

His golden opportunity will take place in the coming days which, according to him, is a chance of a lifetime that is.

Let the countdown begin.

Andre Johnson is a senior writer for MemphiSport. Based in Dallas, Texas, Johnson also covers the NBA Southwest Division. To reach Johnson, send email to [email protected]. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.

Filed Under: All-Stars, Features, Football Tagged With: Canadian Football League, ESPN.COM, NFL.com, YahooSports.com

Despite birth of baby, Okla. prep RB Orrin Walker drawing interests from colleges

March 11, 2015 by Andre Johnson 2 Comments

CAMBREE’S FINEST — According to Ardmore (Okla.) High’s star running back Orrin Walker, days after the recent birth of his daughter, he was peppered with an assortment of questions — questions from whether he plans to finish high school to whether he will continue playing football beyond what has been a remarkable prep career for the talented for the 5-foot-7, 150-pound running back. Today, Yale, Harvard, Princeton, Kansas State, Michigan, Penn State, Navy, Southern Arkansas, Northern Arizona, Southwestern Oklahoma State, Oklahoma Baptist, Tulsa, North Texas, and the University of Texas all have expressed interest in him. (Photos courtesy of Ardmore Athletics)

Orrin Walker Jr. has a forthright message to those who deemed it necessary to doubt him.

“I have come too far now to turn around,” Walker, a junior running back for Ardmore (Okla.) High said during a recent interview.

Armed with what various recruiting analysts say is a wealth of blazing speed and resilience, Walker is alluding to the backlash he took after the birth of his daughter, Cambree, who was born September 16, 2014.

According to Walker, days after the birth of his daughter, he was peppered with an assortment of questions — questions from whether he plans to finish high school to whether he will continue playing football beyond what has been a remarkable prep career for the talented 5-foot-7, 150-pound running back.

“Alot of people thought that I would start slacking and some even thought I would quit (football),” Walker said. “But I have been able to maintain going to school, working two jobs, playing football, and taking care of my daughter.”

HUGE INSPIRATION — Like Orrin’s mother, Ardmore head coach Doug Wendel also contends that his star running back hasn’t missed a beat since the birth of Cambree. If nothing Cambree has become his grandest cheerleader.

And in the wake of what undoubtedly has been a brutally hectic year for this football standout, his solid play on Friday nights has given way to a slew of major colleges inquiring about his services once his high school stint concludes.

According to Walker, Yale, Harvard, Princeton, Kansas State, Michigan, Penn State, Navy, Southern Arkansas, Northern Arizona, Southwestern Oklahoma State, Oklahoma Baptist, Tulsa, North Texas, and the University of Texas all have expressed interest in him.

To get a thorough understanding of why the recruiting process for Walker — known to many as “OJ” — has been nothing short of impressive, look no further than the remarkable numbers he registered this past season.

In leading Ardmore to a 12-2 finish that included a Oklahoma District 1-5A championship and lengthy postseason run, Walker amassed 1,462 yards rushing on just 102 carries and scored a team-best rushing 17 touchdowns. In addition, he had eight receptions for 147 yards and two scores and was just as efficient on special teams, where he generated 377 yards (47.1 average yards per kickoff) on just eight returns and three scores.

So much for the negative backlash he witnessed upon the birth of his child.

“I know OJ has already spoken on this subject, but when I first learned that my son was going to be a father, I was crushed,” said Orrin’s mother, Anquanett Walker. “Different things began to run through my mind, but I never thought at any time that it would stop him from reaching the goals he had set as a child. Today our precious Cambree is (six) months old and I believe that she has added inspiration and motivation to his life.”

PURE TALENT — In leading Ardmore to a 12-2 finish that included a District 1-5A championship and lengthy postseason run, Walker amassed 1,462 yards rushing on just 102 carries and scored a team-best rushing 17 touchdowns.

Like Orrin’s mother, Ardmore head coach Doug Wendel also contends that his star running back hasn’t missed a beat since the birth of Cambree. If nothing Cambree has become his grandest cheerleader.

And vice versa.

“OJ has a tremendous upside,” Wendel said. “He continues to improve in his overall body strength. His speed is exceptional. His drive is second to none.”

Conversely, Wendel said there are a few mechanics Orrin must fine tune as he look prepares for what figures to be a record-setting senior season. Scouts and recruiters will get another glimpse of his Orrin when he attends a number of camps and combines this summer.

“One area that he has improved the most is in his leadership ability,” Wendel said. “He has the skills to make the people around him better. OJ will excel his senior season and at the next level.”

Something about which Cambree, his biggest — but smallest — fan will savor.

“Cambree have been big part of my motivation to continue to go forward,” Orrin said.

A forthright message those who deemed it necessary to doubt this true talent ought to take into account as well.

Andre Johnson is a senior writer for MemphiSport. Based in Dallas, Texas, Johnson covers the NBA Southwest Division. To reach Johnson, send an email to [email protected]. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.

Filed Under: All-Stars, Football Tagged With: ACC football, American Athletic Conference Football, Ardmore High School, Big 10 Football, Big 12 football, ESPN.COM, Oklahoma Sooners Football, Rivals.com, Scout.com, SEC Football, The Daily Oklahoman, University of Tulsa Football, Yahoo.com

Former Kentucky Christian DL Glen Rowell lobbying for pro football roster spot

March 2, 2015 by Andre Johnson 1 Comment

Because of his solid 5-foot-10 frame and the assertiveness and poise he displays on the defensive side of the ball, Glenn Rowell’s football skills have drawn comparisons to London Fletcher, a former NFL All-Pro inside linebacker who played for three different teams during a professional career that spanned 15 seasons.

When the 2015 NFL seasons begins in approximately six months, Rowell hopes to be amongst those fulfilling his dream of playing on football’s grandest stage.

DREAM CHASER — Because of his solid 5-foot-10 frame and the assertiveness and poise he displays on the defensive side of the ball, Glenn Rowell’s football skills have drawn comparisons to London Fletcher, a former NFL All-Pro inside linebacker who played for three different teams during a professional career that spanned 15 seasons. (Phots courtesy of KCU Athletics)

Fortunately for the former Kentucky Christian University star, it’s safe to assume he will be given a fair shot at playing on Sundays in the coming months.

As the NFL prepares to raise the curtain on its annual draft April 28-May 2 in Chicago, Rowell will be amongst the hopefuls aiming to impress scouts and general managers.

First up for the Danville, Illinois native is an appearance at the NFL Regional Combine March 8th in nearby Chicago. That much-anticipated encounter will be followed by an organized Canadian Football League tryout for the British Columbia Lions May 17in Seattle.

According to Gene Peterson, Rowell’s former college coach, the sky’s undoubtedly is the limit for a player whom he believes has the tools to become a household name like Fletcher.

“Glen has a very high motor,” Peterson said. “He has very good lateral movements and comes downhill very fast. He is a student of the game. He can play both inside and outside linebacker. He has a knack of getting to the ball and brings a lot of force when he hits. He is a fine young man with high goals for achievement. He is going to do well in anything he does.”

Just as he did while starring at Kentucky Christian the previous two seasons.

For starters, Rowell enjoyed two efficient seasons at Joliet Community College before transitioning to Kentucky Christian, where he played multiple defensive positions for the Knights, most notably middle linebacker and defensive end.

To his credit, he turned in a remarkable display his junior campaign for the Knights when he amassed a team-best 66 tackles, although the Knights limped to a 3-8 finish.

STAR WATCH — For starters, Rowell enjoyed two efficient seasons at Joliet Community College before transitioning to Kentucky Christian, where he played multiple defensive positions for the Knights, most notably middle linebacker and defensive end.
To his credit, he turned in a remarkable display his junior campaign for the Knights when he amassed a team-best 66 tackles, although the Knights limped to a 3-8 finish.
Last year, Rowell helped propelled KCU to a 5-6 mark in a year in which he admittedly endured his share of “ups and downs.”

Last year, Rowell helped propelled KCU to a 5-6 mark in a year in which he admittedly endured his share of “ups and downs.”

Still, his talents and mechanics didn’t unnoticed by pro scouts, something they will witness once again in the coming weeks.

“I’m just going to keep trying to live out my dream of playing professional football,” Rowell said. “Football taught me how to be disciplined, how to work as one, and also to never give up. It taught me how to step up and be a man and fight through adversity and also it taught me not to forget my family values.”

As Rowell, a 24-year-old former Danville (Ill.) High standout lobbies for a roster spot on a professional team, he said among his biggest supporters have been his mother, Beretta King, as well as his aunt and uncle, Diane and Michael Taylor.

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“Really just my close family and friends (supported me) because they were there when I needed them the most,” Rowell said. “Even on my down times, they never lost faith in me and they kept pushing me.”

Looking ahead, Rowell said his tireless family support and relentless showing on the gridiron are amongst the biggest reasons he’s destined to shine unlike never before at the forthcoming combines in the coming days.

“The reason I think they should give me a chance is because I’m a hard worker,” Rowell said. “I can separate myself from others, and I’m ready to make any move position wise for the team in order for us to win. I’m a hungry player. And I’m also loyal and somebody you can count on at any given time. I just have a strong passion for the game of football.”

An essential attribute he hopes scouts and general managers will take into account in his quest to assume a roster spot for a pro football franchise.

Just like they did for London Fletcher 17 years ago.

Filed Under: All-Stars, Football, Titans

Barton (Ark.) High OL Quentin Watson isn’t ruling out a college football future

February 18, 2015 by Andre Johnson Leave a Comment

COLLEGE MATERIAL — While starting mostly on offense the past two seasons for Barton High in Arkansas, Quentin Watson assumed the left guard position and also enjoyed quality minutes for the Bears at defensive tackle. Although his undersized frame was among the reasons he went unsigned on National Signing Day earlier this month, Bears coach Van Paschal believes the possibility exists that Watson can extend his football career if placed in the right system. (Photos submitted by D. Johnson)

Barton High football coach Van Paschal on Wednesday went on and on about why he believes Quentin Watson is worthy of a shot at playing football at the collegiate level.

“Quentin is a hard worker,” Paschal told MemphiSport during a telephone interview from Lexa, Arkansas. “He’s an undersized lineman. But that’s not a bad thing. But like I told Quentin, there are places to play if he keeps his nose clean.”

For Watson, who started his final two seasons for Barton, he has gained a keen reputation off the field for being one who is well-disciplined, let alone a kid who is extremely scrupulous of those with whom he affiliates.

Add to the fact that this speedy, 200-pound offensive lineman was an integral part of a Bears squad that advanced to the opening round of the Arkansas Class 3A playoffs this year, and it’s no wonder this 17-year-old, vibrant, scholar athlete hasn’t ruled out continuing his football career when he sets foot on a college campus this fall.

HOLDING IT DOWN — A 200-pound offensive lineman, Watson (No. 56) was an integral part of a Bears squad that advanced to the opening round of the Arkansas Class 3A playoffs this year.

In fact, as Watson tells it, he’s admittedly clinging to lofty hopes of fulfilling such a dream, one he’s had ever since he began playing competitively at the age of seven.

“I am a hard-working athletic player,” said Watson, when asked what is it he’d like for college coaches to know about him. “I don’t mind doing whatever it takes to help the team move forward. I have played numerous positions.”

While starting mostly on offense the past two seasons, Watson assumed the left guard position and also enjoyed quality minutes for the Bears at defensive tackle. Although his undersized frame was among the reasons he went unsigned on National Signing Day earlier this month, Paschal believes the possibility exists that Watson can extend his football career if placed in the right system.

“It’ll be a great thing to see someone give him a shot,” Paschal said of Watson, whom he coached for the past four seasons. “There are different levels of (college) ball, Division I, Division II, and Division III. I’ve learned a lesson that you should never say never. Where Quentin’s going to play, I don’t know. But he’s pretty coachable. Quentin is one of those kids…he sees (trouble) on the street, he’s going to dodge it.”

In addition, it is because of his well-disciplined, bend-but-don’t-break persona on and off the field that many who watched Watson’s maturation process over the years believes college coaches would be doing themselves a disservice if they pass up luring a kid of this caliber to their program.

Credit Watson’s mother, Demetric Johnson, for steadfastly pushing her son virtually daily to maximize his fullest potential.

THE REAL MVP — Credit Watson’s mother, Demetric Johnson, for steadfastly pushing her son virtually daily to maximize his fullest potential.
“I realized (when he was 10 years old) he was passionate and dedicated to football,” Johnson explained. “He played the game anytime he could. He took it seriously, getting up early and going to practice, never missing practice, taking leadership (skills), and watching film after a game to see how he could get better. I watched him grow and develop over the years as a player. He is passionate about football and once something becomes a passion, you tend to excel. So, yes I believe he can go far.”

“I realized (when he was 10 years old) he was passionate and dedicated to football,” Johnson explained. “He played the game anytime he could. He took it seriously, getting up early and going to practice, never missing practice, taking leadership (skills), and watching film after a game to see how he could get better. I watched him grow and develop over the years as a player. He is passionate about football and once something becomes a passion, you tend to excel. So, yes I believe he can go far.”

Still, the only reasonable strategy moving forward, Johnson said, is to devise ways to ensure her son lands at a college where he will have the golden opportunity of putting his skills on display.

After all, like his high school coach, she insists all isn’t lost for a kid whom many believed was overlooked by scouts and college coaches long before National Signing Day earlier this month.

“The sky is the limit for my son because he has a passion for the game,” Johnson said. “He is a dedicated player who takes his job on the field seriously but not too much that he loses sight to have fun playing the game as well. I have no doubt if this is what he wants, he can and he will conquer it.”

Just as he’s done for the past four years on and off the field — a trend Watson hopes some college coach recognizes soon.

Filed Under: Behind the Scenes, Football Tagged With: American Athletic Conference Football, Arkansas Razorbacks, Arkansas State football, Arkansas Tech University, Central Arkansas University, ESPN.COM, SEC Football, The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, YahooSports.com

Week 13 TAM Rankings: Mississippi State Remains No. 1 After Loss To Bama

November 16, 2014 by MemphiSport Leave a Comment

It was quite the weekend for our TAM teams, and we will start with Mississippi State.

The last unbeaten TAM team fell in Tuscaloosa on Saturday as the Bulldogs just did not have enough to knock off mighty Alabama. Dak Prescott threw three interceptions in the loss to the Crimson Tide. However, even with their first loss the Bulldogs remain the top team in the TAM Rankings.

Ole Miss now controls their destiny in their quest to be the best TAM team thanks to the Bulldogs loss. A win this week versus Arkansas will set up a showdown of monumental proportions in the Egg Bowl.

Speaking of Arkansas, the Razorbacks finally got their first SEC win of Bret Bielema’s tenure. The Razorbacks last SEC victory came against Kentucky October 13, 2012.

Tennessee also got a much needed win this week throttling Kentucky. With their wins this week both the Vols and Razorbacks each need one more win to reach bowl eligibility.

Memphis won their fourth straight contest, keeping them in contention for the American Athletic Championship. The last time the Tigers won four straight games was 2003 when some guy by the name of DeAngelo Williams was in the backfield.

MTSU suffered four costly turnovers and got outscored 21-7 in the second half in route to their loss to FIU. While Arkansas State fell to Appalachian State all but ending their chances at a Sun Belt Championship.

Thanks to a bye week Vandy managed to avoid losing, but Southern Mississippi was not as fortunate falling to UTSA.

This week’s TAM Game of the Week belongs to none other than Ole Miss vs. Arkansas. The Rebels are still in contention for a SEC West Championship, but they need to win out and get some help from other teams. Arkansas is trying to build on their first SEC win in ages and become bowl eligible.

Only two weeks remain in the regular season and the TAM teams are ready to end the season on a good note.

Without further ado, here are week thirteen’s TAM Rankings…

The Mid-South is full of fans with allegiances to different area college football programs. Which FBS program in the three states surrounding the Memphis area is the best? To help end some arguments and start others, every week MemphiSport ranks all the college football teams in Tennessee, Arkansas and Mississippi. We call it the TAM Rankings.

1. Mississippi State (9-1):
Last Game: L 25-20 vs. Alabama @ Bryant-Denny Stadium
Best Win: 38-23 vs. Auburn @ Davis Wade Stadium
Worst Loss: 25-20 vs. Alabama @ Bryant-Denny Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: 2 (Southern Miss and Arkansas)
Losses Against TAM Teams: N/A

2. Ole Miss (8-2):
Last Game: W Presbyterian College @ Vaught-Hemmingway Stadium
Best Win: 23-17 vs. Alabama @ Vaught-Hemmingway Stadium
Worst Loss: 10-7 vs. LSU @ Tiger Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: 3 (Memphis, Vanderbilt, Tennessee)
Losses Against TAM Teams: N/A

3. Memphis (7-3):
Last Game: W 38-7 vs. Tulane @ Benson Field
Best Win: 41-14 vs. Cincinnati @ Paul Brown Stadium
Worst Loss: 28-24 vs. Houston @ Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: 1 (MTSU)
Losses Against TAM Teams: 1 (Ole Miss)

4. Arkansas (5-5):
Last Game: W 17-0 vs LSU @ Reynolds Razorback Stadium
Best Win: 17-0 vs LSU @ Reynolds Razorback Stadium
Worst Loss: L 35-28 (OT) vs. Texas A&M @ AT&T Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: N/A
Losses Against TAM Teams: 1 (Mississippi State)

5. Tennessee (5-5):
Last Game: W 50-16 vs. Kentucky @ Neyland Stadium
Best Win: 45-42 (OT) vs. South Carolina @ Williams-Brice Stadium
Worst Loss: 34-10 vs. Oklahoma @ Memorial Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: 1 (Arkansas State)
Losses Against TAM Teams: N/A

6. Arkansas State (6-4):
Last Game: L 37-32 vs. Appalachian State @ Centennial Bank Stadium
Best Win: 21-14 vs Utah State (OT) @ Liberty Bank Stadium
Worst Loss: 55-40 vs LA Lafayette @ Cajun Field
Wins Against TAM Teams: N/A
Losses Against TAM Teams: 1 (Tennessee)

7. MTSU (5-5):
Last Game: L 38-28 vs. FIU @ FIU Stadium
Best Win: 50-47 (3 OT) vs. Western Kentucky @ Floyd Stadium
Worst Loss: 36-17 vs. Memphis @ Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: 1 (Southern Mississippi)
Losses Against TAM Teams: 1 (Memphis)

8. Vanderbilt (3-7):
Last Game: L 34-10 vs. Florida @ Vanderbilt Stadium
Best Win: 42-28 vs. Old Dominion @ Vanderbilt Stadium
Worst Loss: 41-3 vs. Ole Miss @ LP Field
Wins Against TAM Teams: N/A
Losses Against TAM Teams: 1 (Ole Miss)

9. Southern Mississippi (3-8):
Last Game: L 12-10 vs. UTSA @ Alamodome Stadium
Best Win: W 26-20 vs. Alcorn State @ M.M. Roberts Stadium
Worst Loss: 12-10 vs. UTSA @ Alamodome Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: N/A
Losses Against TAM Teams: 2 (Mississippi State and MTSU)

SEE ALSO:

CJ Hurt covers college football for MemphiSport. Follow him @conradicalness for live tweets from games.

Filed Under: Football, TAM Rankings, The Big Features, Web Exclusives Tagged With: Arkansas football, Arkansas State football, Mississippi State football, MTSU football, Ole Miss Football, Southern Mississippi football, Tennessee football, university of memphis football, Vanderbilt football

Five Reasons Why Memphis Football Will Win The AAC Championship

November 11, 2014 by MemphiSport Leave a Comment

No. 40 Alan Cross of the Memphis Tigers celebrates with quarter back No. 12 Paxton Lynch after rushing for a 1 yard touchdown against SMU. Cross leads the Tigers in receiving touchdowns with three on the year including one for 50 yards. The University of Memphis football team is bowl eligible for the first time since 2008. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)

For the first since 2008, the University of Memphis is bowl eligible. It was a long and arduous path back to bowl eligibility for the much beloved Tigers full of embarrassing losses, a coaching change, and a jump (albeit for one year) to a BCS automatic bid conference.

The Tigers have gone 12-48 since their last trip to a bowl six years ago, but they are currently 6-3 on the year and Memphis fans everywhere are rejoicing.

Yet why merely settle for bowl eligibility? This team should set their sights on something much more significant, a conference championship.

This was unexpected to say the least, especially since the Tigers are in just their second season of the American Athletic Conference. With the Cougars loss to Tulane, all Memphis has to do is win out and they will get at least a share of the American Championship.

A conference championship would be historic for a Memphis program that last one a championship as a part of the Missouri Valley Conference way back when.

Five Reasons Why the Tigers Football Team Will Win the American Athletic Conference Championship:

1. Favorable schedule down the stretch
To say the Tigers have an easy final three games of the year is disrespectful to USF, UCONN, and Tulane. After all, they have scholarship players like Memphis and pride on the line also. However, compared to the opponents Memphis had to start the year (Ole Miss and UCLA especially), the final three games of the year are, for lack of a better word, easy.

The Huskies and Tulane sit at the bottom of the American standings, and the Tigers final three opponents are a combined 9-19.

Not only is Memphis facing three overmatched teams, 2 of those games are at home. The schedule could not be set up better for a six gamewin streak to end the year, and a conference championship.

2. No UCF or East Carolina on the schedule
The scheduling gods really favored Memphis this year allowing the Tigers to avoid two of the best teams in the American.

The Pirates of East Carolina are ridding the nation’s third best passing attack all the way to an impressive 6-2 record, and had it not been for five turnovers in Philadelphia, ECU would still be undefeated in conference play.

UCF sits at 5-3 with respectable losses to Penn St. in Dublin by two points, and a Mizzo team that currently sits atop the SEC East. The Knights were bitten by the turnover bug much like ECU, surrendering four turnovers in route to their only loss in AAC play.

Since Memphis currently holds the tie breaker over Cincinnati (who also only has one loss), and avoids both ECU and UCF, should the Tigers win out they are guaranteed at least a share of the American Conference Championship. By the way, ECU and UCF play at the end of the year so one of them is guaranteed to lose one more game.

3. The Tigers run game seems to be unstoppable
It has been a while since we have seen the University of Memphis field an offense this potent. This is an offense that is currently fourth in the American in passing yards per game (240.7 ypg) thanks to the maturation of Paxton Lynch.

However it is the Tigers ground game that is proving to be among the best in the nation. Memphis currently leads the conference in rushing with 192.2 ypg. That is quite the feat considering that Memphis only managed 23 rushing yards against Ole Miss earlier in the season. If you ignore that particular game the Tigers average rushing yards per game jumps to 213.4 ypg. Brandon Hayes leads the way for Memphis with his burst and power averaging 102.3 ypg on the ground. Opponents will have their hands full trying to stop Hayes the rest of the season.

4. Defense is really stepping up
If the old saying is true, and defense really does win championships, the Tigers are in stupendous shape. They have given up three touchdowns in a game just four times, and one of those was during the Tulsa game with the backups in. Two of the teams to score at least three touchdowns on this tenacious Tigers defense are currently ranked in the top 20 of the College Football Playoff Rankings (No. 11 Ole Miss and No. 18 UCLA). Memphis is allowing opponents to score just under 19 points per contest which is good for 13^th best in the nation.

The Tigers are second in the American in tackles for loss thanks in part to star linebacker Tank Jakes’ 12 tackles for loss on the season (also good for second in the American). Their ability to get penetration and make plays behind the line of scrimmage is the main reason why Memphis sits third in the American in both passing and rushing yards allowed and second behind East Carolina in total yards allowed.

Should this defense continue to wreak havoc in opponents backfields offenses will continue to have a rough time scoring, and we all know that if you cannot score you cannot win.

5. Justin Fuente
The job head coach Justin Fuente has done since taking over in 2012 is truly remarkable. He inherited one of the worst programs in the nation and all he did was lead them to three straight wins down the stretch of his first season, giving the Tigers a .500 record in conference for the first time since 2008.

Then, right in the midst of his rebuilding efforts, Memphis made the jump from an easier Conference USA to the American Athletic Conference, no easy task for a team that was as inexperienced as Memphis.

Even though the losses continued to pile up, fans saw signs of improvement. Fuente had the Tigers within striking distance going into the fourth quarter much of last year, which is something people were not accustomed to seeing. In fact, in three of the Tigers losses last season, Memphis was either leading or tied at some point in the fourth quarter.

This season Coach Fuente has gotten the program to turn the corner as is evident by the way they played on the road against UCLA and Ole Miss early in the year. Memphis almost pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the college football season, but did not have enough to knock off the bruins in Pasadena. The Ole Miss contest was a one possession game until the Rebels pulled away in the fourth quarter.

Fuente is proving that he is one of the best up and coming coaches in the sport, and has this team believing in themselves. More importantly, he has the Tigers on the precipice of a conference championship, which is something nobody saw coming.

SEE ALSO:

CJ Hurt covers college football for MemphiSport. Follow him @conradicalness for live tweets from games.

Filed Under: Football, The Big Features, Tiger Football, Web Exclusives Tagged With: Alan Cross, American Athletic Conference, Central Florida, East Carolina, Justin Fuente, Paxton Lynch, Rebels, Tank Jakes, The American, Tulane Football, UCLA, UConn, University of Houston, university of memphis football, USF

Week 11 TAM Rankings: Loss Knocks Rebels Out of Playoff

November 2, 2014 by MemphiSport Leave a Comment

It was another unpredictable week for the TAM teams with some getting key victories, others pulling off major upsets, and one with suffering a back breaking loss.

At the top of the rankings sits one of three undefeated teams left in the nation. Mississippi State took another underdog’s best shot when they took on SEC West Rival and fellow TAM team Arkansas. The Razorbacks took an early 10 point lead, but allowed 17 unanswered points to fall in heartbreaking fashion for the fifth time in conference play this season.

While we are on the topic of heartbreaking losses Ole Miss all but lost their shot at a playoff birth with a loss to Auburn. On one play the Rebels lost the game and star receiver Laquon Treadwell. Yet, the Rebels have pretty much guaranteed themselves a top two finish in these rankings because of their record and wins over Tennessee, Memphis, and Vanderbilt.

Memphis recovered from a slow start on Halloween night to knock off Tulsa and now sits at the top of the American standings (thanks to losses by East Carolina and UCF). The Tigers are now one win away from bowl eligibility.

Tennessee knocked off South Carolina in overtime making this the second straight year the Vols have beaten the Gamecocks.

MTSU was throttled by a motivated BYU team while Arkansas State got back to their winning ways against Idaho.

The Golden Eagles turned the ball over five times in route to another blowout loss on the season. Southern Mississippi is one loss away from becoming ineligible for a bowl.

Vanderbilt kept its bowl hopes alive by manhandling Old Dominion at home.

It is November so every game is meaningful from this point on, but there can only be one TAME Game of the Week. That honor belongs to Memphis who can lay claim to a share of the American Championship if they win out. The Tigers face a Temple team who beat Vanderbilt earlier this year and just got a win over East Carolina.

The bowl picture is becoming clearer with every passing week and all of the TAM teams still have a chance to become bowl eligible.

Without further ado, here are week ten’s TAM Rankings…

1. Mississippi State (8-0):
Last Game: W 17-10 Arkansas @ Davis Wade Stadium
Best Win: 38-23 vs. Auburn @ Davis Wade Stadium
Worst Loss: N/A
Wins Against TAM Teams: 2 (Southern Miss and Arkansas)
Losses Against TAM Teams: N/A

2. Ole Miss (7-2):
Last Game: L 35-31 vs. Auburn @ Vaught-Hemmingway Stadium
Best Win: 23-17 vs. Alabama @ Vaught-Hemmingway Stadium
Worst Loss: 10-7 vs. LSU @ Tiger Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: 3 (Memphis, Vanderbilt, Tennessee)
Losses Against TAM Teams: N/A

3. Tennessee (4-5):
Last Game: W 45-42 (OT) vs. South Carolina @ Williams-Brice Stadium
Best Win: 38-7 vs. Utah State @ Neyland Stadium
Worst Loss: 34-10 vs. Oklahoma @ Memorial Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: 1 (Arkansas State)
Losses Against TAM Teams: N/A

4. Memphis (5-3):
Last Game: W 40-20 vs. Tulsa @ Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium
Best Win: 41-14 vs. Cincinnati @ Paul Brown Stadium
Worst Loss: 28-24 vs. Houston @ Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: 1 (MTSU)
Losses Against TAM Teams: 1 (Ole Miss)

5. Arkansas (4-5):
Last Game: L 17-10 vs. Mississippi State @ Davis Wade Stadium
Best Win: 49-28 vs. Texas Tech @ Jones AT&T Stadium
Worst Loss: L 35-28 (OT) vs. Texas A&M @ AT&T Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: N/A
Losses Against TAM Teams: 1 (Mississippi State)

6. MTSU (5-4):
Last Game: L 27-7 vs. MTSU @ Floyd Stadium
Best Win: 50-47 (3 OT) vs. Western Kentucky @ Floyd Stadium
Worst Loss: 36-17 vs. Memphis @ Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: 1 (Southern Mississippi)
Losses Against TAM Teams: 1 (Memphis)

7. Arkansas State (5-3):
Last Game: W 44-28 vs. Idaho @ Kibbie Dome
Best Win: 21-14 vs Utah State (OT) @ Liberty Bank Stadium
Worst Loss: 55-40 vs LA Lafayette @ Cajun Field
Wins Against TAM Teams: N/A
Losses Against TAM Teams: 1 (Tennessee)

8. Vanderbilt (3-6):
Last Game: W 42-28 vs. Old Dominion @ Vanderbilt Stadium
Best Win: 42-28 vs. Old Dominion @ Vanderbilt Stadium
Worst Loss: 41-3 vs. Ole Miss @ LP Field
Wins Against TAM Teams: N/A
Losses Against TAM Teams: 1 (Ole Miss)

9. Southern Mississippi (3-6):
Last Game: L 35-14 vs. UTEP @ Sun Stadium
Best Win: W 26-20 vs. Alcorn State @ M.M. Roberts Stadium
Worst Loss: 49-0 vs. Mississippi State @ Davis Wade Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: N/A
Losses Against TAM Teams: 2 (Mississippi State and MTSU)

SEE ALSO:

CJ Hurt covers college football for MemphiSport. Follow him @conradicalness for live tweets from games.

Filed Under: Football, TAM Rankings, The Big Features, Web Exclusives Tagged With: American Athletic Conference Football, Arkansas football, Arkansas State football, Mississippi State football, MTSU football, Ole Miss Football, Southern Mississippi football, Tennessee football, university of memphis football, Vanderbilt football

Week 8 TAM Rankings: Bulldogs Unanimous Number One TAM Team

October 19, 2014 by MemphiSport Leave a Comment

Mississippi State and Ole Miss continue to dominate the college football landscape. The Bulldogs had a well-deserved bye week, while the Rebels dominated in their contest against fellow TAM team Tennessee. Ole Miss held the team from Rocky Top to just 191 yards of total offense, zero rushing yards, and just three points.

Tennessee was not the only TAM team to get throttled this week. Arkansas allowed 31 second quarter points and trailed 38-6 at half time before Georgia stepped off of the gas.

Both Tennessee and Arkansas fell in the TAM Rankings because of their pitiful performances, which means Memphis moves on up to three. This is the highest the Tigers have ever been ranked in these rankings.

Arkansas State and Vanderbilt had bye weeks as well, and MTSU returned to their winning ways by knockling off C-USA foe UAB.

Southern Mississippi managed to beat North Texas for their third win of the year.

This is another week full of awesome contests featuring TAM Teams, but there can only be one Game of the Week. Ole Miss vs. LSU gets that distinction this week. It is one thing to go into Tiger Stadium at night as the hunter, but the Rebels will not be the hunted on Saturday. Vegas has the Rebs favored by three points in that game so a loss to LSU would be considered an upset.

It is that time of the year where teams begin to separate themselves from one another. Here is hoping that your favorite TAM team makes you proud.

Without further ado, here are week eight’s TAM Rankings…

1. Mississippi State (6-0):
Last Game: W 38-23 vs. Auburn @ Davis Wade Stadium
Best Win: 38-23 vs. Auburn @ Davis Wade Stadium
Worst Loss: N/A
Wins Against TAM Teams: 1 (Southern Miss)
Losses Against TAM Teams: N/A

2. Ole Miss (7-0):
Last Game: W 34-3 vs Tennessee @Vaught Hemmingway Stadium
Best Win: 23-17 vs. Alabama @ Vaught-Hemmingway Stadium
Worst Loss: N/A
Wins Against TAM Teams: 3 (Memphis, Vanderbilt, Tennessee)
Losses Against TAM Teams: N/A

3. Memphis (3-3):
Last Game: L 28-24 vs. Houston @ Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium
Best Win: 41-14 vs. Cincinnati @ Paul Brown Stadium
Worst Loss: 28-24 vs. Houston @ Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: 1 (MTSU)
Losses Against TAM Teams: 1 (Ole Miss)

4. Arkansas (3-4):
Last Game: L 45-32 vs. UGA @ War Memorial Stadium
Best Win: 49-28 vs. Texas Tech @ Jones AT&T Stadium
Worst Loss: L 35-28 (OT) vs. Texas A&M @ AT&T Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: N/A
Losses Against TAM Teams: N/A

5. Tennessee (3-4):
Last Game: L 34-3 vs. Ole Miss @ Vaught Hemmingway Stadium
Best Win: 38-7 vs. Utah State @ Neyland Stadium
Worst Loss: 34-10 vs. Oklahoma @ Memorial Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: 1 (Arkansas State)
Losses Against TAM Teams: 1 (Ole Miss)

6. Arkansas State (4-2):
Last Game: W 52-10 vs. Georgia Southern @ Georgia Dome
Best Win: 21-14 vs Utah State (OT) @ Liberty Bank Stadium
Worst Loss: 34-19 vs. Tennessee @ Neyland Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: N/A
Losses Against TAM Teams: 1 (Tennessee)

7. MTSU (5-3):
Last Game: W 34-22 vs. UAB @ Floyd Stadium
Best Win: 50-47 (3 OT) vs. Western Kentucky @ Floyd Stadium
Worst Loss: 36-17 vs. Memphis @ Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: 1 (Southern Mississippi)
Losses Against TAM Teams: 1 (Memphis)

8. Vanderbilt (2-5):
Last Game: L 21-20 vs. Charleston Southern @ Vanderbilt Stadium
Best Win: 34-31 vs. UMass @ Vanderbilt Stadium
Worst Loss: 41-3 vs. Ole Miss @ LP Field
Wins Against TAM Teams: N/A
Losses Against TAM Teams: 1 (Ole Miss)

9. Southern Mississippi (3-4):
Last Game: W 30-20 vs. North Texas @ Mean Green Stadium
Best Win: W 26-20 vs. Alcorn State @ M.M. Roberts Stadium
Worst Loss: 49-0 vs. Mississippi State @ Davis Wade Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: N/A
Losses Against TAM Teams: 2 (Mississippi State and MTSU)

SEE ALSO:

CJ Hurt covers college football for MemphiSport. Follow him @conradicalness for live tweets from games.

Week 6 TAM Rankings: All eyes on the state of Mississippi

October 5, 2014 by MemphiSport Leave a Comment

The TAM teams showed up and showed out in a big way this weekend with three impressive wins

If you are looking for big wins look no further than the state of Mississippi. With ESPN College Gameday in Oxford and SEC Nation in Starkville both Ole Miss and Mississippi State had a chance to make emphatic statements. They both faced elite competition and they both rose to the occasion in a monumental way.

The Bulldogs took Texas A&M to that area behind the proverbial woodshed and issued a thorough 17 point beat down. Not to be out done by their archrival, Ole Miss knocked off big bad Bama in a thrilling game. If these two teams continue their winning ways this year’s Egg Bowl will be for the SEC West crown (let that sink in nonbelievers).

Speaking of huge wins, Memphis (yes Memphis) destroyed rival Cincinnati giving the Tigers a huge in conference win and increasing their chances of becoming bowl eligible for the first time in ages.

Tennessee played another close game coming up just short to archrival Florida, and poor ole Vanderbilt was little competition for Todd Gurley and Georgia.

MTSU took down fellow TAM team Southern Miss to solidify their place among the top teams in C-USA.

Arkansas State took care of business against LA Monroe and get the best team in the Sun Belt, Georgia Southern, next.

The Razorbacks had a bye week and get to face off with a Crimson Tide team that is going to be furious following their loss to Ole Miss.

All eyes will remain on Mississippi this week as Mississippi State gets another chance to prove themselves against the Auburn Tigers in the TAM Game of the Week.

The TAM teams are beginning to separate themselves from the pack and this week will be another opportunity for them to show what they can do.

Without further ado, here are week six’s TAM Rankings…

1. Ole Miss (5-0):
Last Game: W 23-17 vs. Alabama @ Vaught-Hemmingway Stadium
Best Win: 23-17 vs. Alabama @ Vaught-Hemmingway Stadium
Worst Loss: N/A
Wins Against TAM Teams: 2 (Memphis and Vanderbilt)
Losses Against TAM Teams: N/A

2. Mississippi State (5-0):
Last Game: W 48-31 vs. Texas A&M @ Davis Wade Stadium
Best Win: 34-29 vs. LSU @ Tiger Stadium
Worst Loss: N/A
Wins Against TAM Teams: 1 (Southern Miss)
Losses Against TAM Teams: N/A

3. Arkansas (3-2):
Last Game: L 35-28 (OT) vs. Texas A&M @ AT&T Stadium
Best Win: 49-28 vs. Texas Tech @ Jones AT&T Stadium
Worst Loss: L 35-28 (OT) vs. Texas A&M @ AT&T Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: N/A
Losses Against TAM Teams: N/A

4. Memphis (3-2):
Last Game: W 41-14 vs. Cincinnati @ Paul Brown Stadium
Best Win: 41-14 vs. Cincinnati @ Paul Brown Stadium
Worst Loss: 24- 3 vs. Ole Miss @ Vaught-Hemmingway Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: 1 (MTSU)
Losses Against TAM Teams: 1 (Ole Miss)

5. Tennessee (2-3):
Last Game: L 10-9 vs. Florida @ Neyland Stadium
Best Win: 38-7 vs. Utah State @ Neyland Stadium
Worst Loss: 34-10 vs. Oklahoma @ Memorial Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: 1 (Arkansas State)
Losses Against TAM Teams: N/A

6. Arkansas State (3-2):
Last Game: W 28-14 vs. LA Monroe @ Liberty Bank Stadium
Best Win: 21-14 vs Utah State (OT) @ Liberty Bank Stadium
Worst Loss: 34-19 vs. Tennessee @ Neyland Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: N/A
Losses Against TAM Teams: 1 (Tennessee)

7. MTSU (4-2):
Last Game: W 37-31 vs. Southern Mississippi @ Floyd Stadium
Best Win: 50-47 (3 OT) vs. Western Kentucky @ Floyd Stadium
Worst Loss: 36-17 vs. Memphis @ Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: 1 (Southern Mississippi)
Losses Against TAM Teams: 1 (Memphis)

8. Vanderbilt (1-5):
Last Game: L 44-17 vs. UGA @ Sanford Stadium
Best Win: 34-31 vs. UMass @ Vanderbilt Stadium
Worst Loss: 41-3 vs. Ole Miss @ LP Field
Wins Against TAM Teams: N/A
Losses Against TAM Teams: 1 (Ole Miss)

9. Southern Mississippi (2-4):
Last Game: L 37-31 vs. MTSU @ Floyd Stadium
Best Win: W 26-20 vs. Alcorn State @ M.M. Roberts Stadium
Worst Loss: 49-0 vs. Mississippi State @ Davis Wade Stadium
Wins Against TAM Teams: N/A
Losses Against TAM Teams: 2(Mississippi State and MTSU)

SEE ALSO:

CJ Hurt covers college football for MemphiSport. Follow him @conradicalness for live tweets from games.

Filed Under: Football, TAM Rankings, The Big Features, Web Exclusives Tagged With: Arkansas football, Arkansas State football, Mississippi State football, MTSU football, Ole Miss Football, Southern Mississippi football, Tennessee football, Todd Gurley, university of memphis football, Vanderbilt football

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