Memphis @ SMU

Scouting Report for Memphis Tigers(1-6) vs. SMU Mustangs (3-4)
October 27, 2012- Gerald Ford Stadium, University Park,TX

Memphis: After the Tigers started the season with a 4 game losing streak, Memphis is now halfway to tying that mark. Their latest loss was 35-17 against Central Florida at home.

Though the Tigers outgained the Knights by 10 yards (361-351 total yards), the fact that UCF scored on their opportunities made Memphis' efforts a moot point. The Tigers couldn't stop Latavius Murray (192 YDS on 23 carries) who scored two touchdowns (both in the first quarter). Robert Steeples recovered a fumble for a 27 yard return for the defense.

Memphis' offense did what they could. After trailing 14-0 in the first quarter, the Tigers struck back in the second quarter pulling within 4. Memphis would add a 1 rushing touchdown from a yard out with Jacob Karan (20-28, 121 YDS and 1 INT)in the second half. But not before UCF had 21 straight points. The offense turned the ball over three times, including the Knights' A.J. Bouye recovering Keiwone Malone's (5 catches 50 YDS) fumble for a 79 YD touchdown. Jan Stieb had 88 YDS on the ground and Brandon Hayes added another 83 YDS to add to the team total 240 yards rushing.

SMU: For those who think that the defense didn't show up on both sides of a 72-42 victory over the Houston Cougars, think again. The Mustangs managed to win the turnover margin by 7 and that was enough for SMU to win.

Thanks to 3 turnovers on special teams and six interceptions, the Ponies overcame the fact that Houston scored 42 points and had 560 total yards. Taylor Reed was brilliant. He picked off both David Piland (17 yard touchdown) and Crawford Jones (3rd quarter). Kevin Pope recovered a fumble on the opening kickoff for a score. Stephon Sanders, Darrian Wright and returned 2 more interceptions for touchdowns.

Not to be outdone, Garrett Gilbert (23-38, 265 YDS, 4 TD and 2 INT) looks like e found his niche. Zach Line (22 carries)had 2 TDs and 113 YDS. Jeremy and Darius caught 9 passes a piece for a combined 204 yards and 3 touchdowns.

What to watch for: The Tigers will need to be aware of Margus Hunt. Despite only two sacks, the 114th ranked offense will have it's hands full with him. Which means Reed and Ja'Gared Davis should make life harder for the Memphis O-Line.

Conclusion: The Mustang defense had a dream like a game on the defensive line. They also managed to score a new school record of 72 points. Memphis may not be a football powerhouse in Conference USA, that doesn't mean that the Tigers won't upset SMU. Two weeks ago, the Mustangs gave Tulane their first victory of the season. But with the Pony offense looking like it's hitting it's stride, Memphis probably will struggle to stay in the game. All they can hope for is a hangover from the Mustangs incredible performance last week.

Prediction: SMU by 17.

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