Major defensive improvement and steady quarterback play have the 3-0 Memphis Tigers eying a lofty milestone: a double-digit win season. But first comes a shot at revenge Thursday versus Navy and their downhill rushing attack. However, clearing that hurdle means the energized Tigers are poised to win 10 games.
First-year defensive coordinator Adam Fuller’s defense has not allowed a single hundred-yard rusher in 16 games, dating back to last season at Marshall. Ex-Tiger star and NFL veteran Glenn Rogers said, in addition to steady quarterback play, Fuller has been the difference so far this season.
“That’s why Norvell hired him,” Rogers said during Wednesday morning’s practice.
“There’s a lot less confusion than in years past,” said Rogers as Memphis-born rapper Young Dolph bumped over the speakers. “They’re not blowing assignments. You’re not seeing guys wide-open down the field and great big running lanes.”
Memphis’ defense was the story week one when Fuller’s squad welcomed their new coach with a splash: Ole miss had negative arushing yardage and just 10 yards total at halftime. So much for the SEC—Southern University and South Alabama brought the scoring average up against Memphis to 13 points per game.
After practice Wednesday morning, Coach Norvell credited the defense for bringing good energy and focus but said his offense “was not good enough today.” Norvell said battling through unfortunate injuries means more reps for some players and it is next man up.
“Some guys are embracing the opportunity; some are not,” Norvell said.
After the defensive improvement, steady quarterback play is the second biggest story of the 3-0 start and hopefully 10 win season for the Tigers. Quarterback Brady White, who will make his 17th start Thursday, said he was unphased by the heat Wednesday morning, and that “the defense has been great, but the offense hasn’t put together a complete game yet.”
The Californian spoke about limiting mistakes against Navy this year and understands he sets the tone. White spoke about “energy,” having fun with his teammates and the offense getting in a special rhythm when they make plays.
“It makes it fun when you’re playing with your boys, and they’re just making dudes miss,” White said. “Everyone just gets excited, and it builds a vibe on the offensive side of the ball everyone feeds off.”
The second-year starter is showing veteran flashes—he spoke about prioritizing ball security and getting the ball out to his teammates. At the end of his Wednesday morning media availability, White fielded fun questions regarding some legislation in his home state.
“I’m in Tennessee,” White said. “Shoot, I’m just focused on Memphis and playing ball.”
Veteran leadership, maturity from the quarterback and vastly improved defense have the 2019 Tigers poised to win 10 games. Anything short of that will be money left on the table. Everyone expects Navy to shatter Fuller’s record next week. What is more important is for the Memphis defense to hang in there and make enough plays to keep it close.
The players and coaches are not overly concerned with individual statistics. If Memphis moves to 4-0 next Thursday, then they are good enough to win 10 games this season. The stakes get higher, and this team will continue to sacrifice for one another.
