MEMPHIS FOOTBALL REPORT CARD

Here’s how we graded the Tigers’ first road win of the season

Offense: A

Memphis put up the most points it ever had at Navy. That alone deserves a passing grade but throw in that Seth Henigan had a career-best 71.9 completion percentage, Javon Ivory made several crucial catches and Joseph Scates’ first catch was a long touchdown.

Could the run game have been more effective? Yes, despite touchdowns from Brandon Thomas and Asa Martin. But the passing game saved the day as the Tigers looked much better and more explosive than they did against Mississippi State.

Defense: B

Except for allowing 149 yards on two scoring drives, Memphis did a great job containing Navy’s triple option. The Tigers were even better on third downs, getting Navy off the field with Quindell Johnson and linebackers Xavier Cullens and Tyler Murray leading the way. Sylvonta Oliver added a late interception.

After Mississippi State steamrolled them, the Tigers looked much sharper punching against Navy. Cullens’ targeting penalty in the fourth quarter was the only lowlight.

Special Teams: A

Another strong day for senior Chris Howard as the Florida transfer was 3-for-3 on field goals and PATS. Through two games, he’s been perfect on the field. The Tigers’ punt and return games were mostly silent, save for a 26-yard kick return by Julian Barnett. But Howard’s success has this unit in better shape and he’s off to a good start.

Coaching: B

Memphis looked much more prepared for Navy. It had a clear plan to target Navy’s secondary. The defense was mostly never caught offguard by the triple option.

Everything was a clear 180 from how the Tigers performed against Mississippi State. The Tigers hadn’t looked this solid on the road in nearly a year and Ryan Silverfield deserves credit for having his team focused.

Overall: A

Memphis was expected to dominate Navy and the Tigers did just that. It was a strong effort in all phases against an undermanned team and Memphis convinced fans to worry less by taking care of business. They’ll be favored in their next three games so perhaps the win was something to build on.

—Evan Barnes