Tigers vs. Tulane: 5 things to know
Memphis (3-1) returns to AAC play Friday at Tulane (1-3) after coming off consecutive wins over Georgia State and South Alabama.
It's also the Tigers' second road game of the season. Memphis had a commanding 56-26 win over Tulane last season but the Tigers have some questions heading into this week.
Here's five things to watch in New Orleans with kickoff set for at 6 p.m. on ESPN2
How healthy is Memphis
Norvell said everyone would know how healthy his team was by kickoff. Based on open practices this week, several players will still be a mystery up front.
Linemen Jonathan Wilson and O'Bryan Goodson practiced Tuesday while Emmanuel Cooper was wearing a non-contact jersey. Linebacker Jackson Dillon, who left the South Alabama game with an injury, missed his second day of practice.
Safety La'Andre Thomas and cornerback Tito Windham will also be
game-time decisions after neither practiced Monday. The injuries affected the Tigers' pass rush against South Alabama and with Tulane's offense being a balanced attack, this is where the Tigers' front line needs to win. Look for linemen Joseph Dorceus, Keith Brigham and linebacker Bryce Huff get more reps if needed.
Defend the spread
Memphis not only has to worry about containing Tulane receivers Darnell Mooney and Terren Encalade, the AAC's leading duo, but running backs Corey Dauphine and Darius Bradwell. Dauphine's the speedier of the two and Bradwell, at 6foot-1, 230 pounds, is a load to bring down. Of course, Tulane has to contend with the Memphis running game and Darrell Henderson, the nation's rushing leader. In two games against Tulane, Henderson has 327 all-purpose yards and ran for a careerbest 82-yard touchdown last year.
Take care of the ball
The weather at Yulman Stadium could be similar to what Memphis faced at Navy. Scattered thunderstorms are on the forecast and it means Memphis can't afford another four-turnover game.
Close the Bank(s)
Tulane quarterback Jonathan Banks had a miserable game at Memphis last year, throwing for only 203 yards despite three touchdown passes. The Tigers' defense needs to make sure he has another one Friday. Banks is mobile but only has 43 rushing yards this season. He has great arm strength but has only completed 49.5 percent of his passes and only has one game this season where he passed for over 200 yards.
Score fast, score often
Memphis jumped out to a 35-0 lead last year and that set the tone for a commanding win.
Tulane's defense is ranked No. 115 in the country in yards allowed and 120th in passing yards. Although Tulane has six interceptions - led by two from Donnie Lewis - this could be another showcase for the Tigers' passing game as Brady White looks to atone for his rough showing at Navy.