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Memphis vs. Bowling Green Preview

<p>Memphis Head Coach Mike Norvell celebrates after a 43-7 win against Kansas. Norvell announced the completion of the 2018 signing class Wednesday after recruiting 24 incoming players to the program.</p>
Memphis Head Coach Mike Norvell celebrates after a 43-7 win against Kansas. Norvell announced the completion of the 2018 signing class Wednesday after recruiting 24 incoming players to the program.

Series Record: 1-1

            The University of Memphis (2-0) defeated Bowling Green (1-2) last season 44-41 after Jake Elliot put the Tigers up three with seven minutes remaining in the fourth quarter. The Falcons beat the Tigers 52-35 at the GMAC bowl in 2004.

What’s at Stake

            Memphis has to focus on the task at hand Saturday and not look ahead to the matchup at Ole Miss next weekend. The Tigers need to take advantage of being heavy favorites before the schedule gets tougher.

            Bowling Green lost almost all of their top offensive performers from last season. The Falcons, in a winnable MAC conference, need to find an offensive rhythm before starting conference play next week.

Key Matchup

            The Memphis defense caused six takeaways in their previous game against Kansas, two interceptions and four fumble recoveries. Bowling Green has not lost a fumble on the year, but their quarterbacks have totaled eight interceptions. Their quarterback last year, Matt Johnson, only threw eight interceptions all season. Memphis has the opportunity to gain even more defensive momentum this week by causing multiple turnovers against an inexperienced Falcon’s offense.

Players to Watch

Memphis RB Patrick Taylor Jr.: Taylor, a true freshman, is leading the Tigers in rushing on the season but has not found the end zone yet. Now that he has established himself as one of the top options in the offense, he may find himself getting more red zone touches.

Memphis DB Arthur Maulet: He is tied for the team lead with one interception, but he leads the team by himself in passes defended. Maulet can pad those numbers against an interception prone offense.

Bowling Green WR Scott Miller: The sophomore, who did not see a lot of action last season, is the teams’ leading receiver with 227 yards. He is also the only player to catch a touchdown pass on the year (3) for the Falcons. His performance could make or break Bowling Green’s passing game.

Bowling Green RB Josh Cleveland: The Falcon’s leading rusher shows big play potential averaging 6.5 yards per carry. Although the Tigers’ defense has been solid against the rushing attack this season, they have allowed a few big plays.

Memphis Head Coach Mike Norvell celebrates after a 43-7 win against Kansas. Norvell announced the completion of the 2018 signing class Wednesday after recruiting 24 incoming players to the program.


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