"Every Man a Tiger" - A University of Memphis Dynasty (NCAA 2007)

[Matt10]

Re: "Every Man a Tiger" - A University of Memphis Dynasty (NCAA 2007)

Week 3 - MEMPHIS @ EASTERN CAROLINA

WR Aundrae Allison will be the main go to man this game for the Pirates.

Date and Time: 9/16/06, 3h30pm
Weather: Cool
Surface: Field Grass

Record: 0-2

Last Game: @Oklahoma, L 14-34

Player Watch: QB Martin Hankins, Hankins will be watched not because of his recent play in Oklahoma - but rather his mild concussion suffered against the Sooners in Norman last weekend. Hankins has been given the clean bill of health and it will be interesting to see what kind of numbers the young man can put up.

Grades: OVR(B-),OFF(C+),DEF(B-)

Coach Comments: "It's time to jot down that first W."

Injuries: None



Record: 1-1

Last Game: at UAB, W 31-26

Player Watch: WR Aundrae Allison, The captain will have to step up big time in this one. Without star RB Chris Johnson, the Pirates are going to have to throw it up against the weaker pass defense of the Tigers. Allison will be calling for the ball on every down and look for him to put up some big numbers.
Grades: OVR(B-),OFF(B-),DEF(C)

Coach Coments: "After a big win last week, we're feeling good. There's no question we are going to send the Tigers home with their tails between their legs."

Injuries: RB Chris Johnson (JR) - Knee Bruse - 2 Weeks

[Matt10]

Re: "Every Man a Tiger" - A University of Memphis Dynasty (NCAA 2007)


Oh,Maurice!

SETTING SAIL
TIGERS OVERTHROW PIRATES

Greenville, NC (AP) -- The Tigers came into their first conference matchup of the season, sitting at 0-2 on the season, hoping to come away with the first win of the early 2006 season. The Pirates of ECU were hurting all day as SR QB James Pinkney left to be the sole leader, it also didn't help that fellow captain and senior, Aundrae Allison dropped virtually everything that was thrown to him.

On the first drive of the game Pinkney and, in for the injured Chris Johnson, Soph. backup RB Dominique Lindsay, ran for the most part. Pinkney's first throw of the game was a terrible one, which Memphis' FS Wesley Smith intercepted and ran back 57 yards for the first score of the game.

In the second quarter, after a field goal for ECU at the end of the first, Memphis answered back. Hankins drove his team down the field and capped off a 60 yard drive with himself sneaking into the endzone on 3rd and Goal. Jamarcus Gaither, who was simply outstanding as opposed to his teammate and starter Joseph Doss, scored off of a great option play by Hankins for 16 yards. The Pirates scored a late one with their one-man team Pinkney, rushing in from 7 yards out.

Most of the scoring was done in the third quarter as both teams struck back and forth. Memphis took a 28-10 lead with WR Maurice Jones catching a 6 yard pass from Hankins, but ECU's backup RB Burke answered back with a 13 yard run on the Pirates next possesion.

With winds of 15-20mph,the Tigers' kicker, Trey Adams went 3-3 (46,46,41) in the game and proved why he was considering a job in the NFL later on. Adams struck the first 46yarder for the Tigers' next score. On the kickoff, ECU fumbled the ball and was recoverd by backups Safety,Sam Brewer, who ran it back 29 yards to widen the gap.

The last score for ECU came on the very next drive as Pinkney began to show how nimble he was with his feet rushing for 14 yards, which setup Lindsay's 1-yard run into the endzone.

The remaining points were scored by Adams with a 46 yarder and then a 41 yarder to seal it.

The Tigers have the week off next week and there are talks about who is going to start at running back from here on out as Gaither has shown he is start-worthy. Memphis head coach, Tommy West, will also be hosting some future recruits back home before he and the Tigers travel to Knoxville for their week five matchup against the #9 (3-0) Tennessee Volunteers.



WEEK 4 - BYE




_______________________________________
SCORING SUMMARY
Memphis 44, ECU 24
_______________________________________

1st Quarter:
TD Memphis 7-0, W.Smith,57 YD INT Ret TD (XP)
FG ECU 7-3, R.Lee 23 YD FG
2nd Quarter:
TD Memphis 14-3, M.Hankins,0 YD Run (XP)
TD Memphis 21-3, J.Gaither,16 YD Run (XP)
TD ECU 21-10, J.Pinkney,7 YD Run (XP)
3rd Quarter:
TD Memphis 28-10, Hankins to Jones, 6 YD Rec (XP)
TD ECU 28-17, E.Burke,13 YD Run (XP)
FG Memphis 31-17, T.Adams 46 YD FG
TD Memphis 38-17, Brewer,29 YD Fum Ret (XP)
TD ECU 38-24, D.Lindsay,1 YD Run (XP)
4th Quarter:
FG Memphis 41-24, T.Adams 46 YD FG
FG Memphis 44-24, T.Adams 41 YD FG
_______________________________________
PLAYER STATS
_______________________________________

ECU:
Passing - *J.Pinkney: 6/28,142yds,4 INT
Rushing - D.Lindsay: 15rush 77yds,TD
Receiving - J.Sonnhalter: 2 Rec 58yds
Defensive - T.Williams: 8tak,2 TFL

MEMPHIS:
Passing - M.Hankins: 16/29,189yds,TD
Rushing - J.Gaither: 15rush,74yds,TD
Receiving - *M.Jones: 3 Rec 20yds,TD
Defensive - D.Clenin: 8tak,TFL




GAME REFLECTIONS

"I'd feel better if a GOOD Qb threw me the INT" - Wesley Smith on his first Interception return for a touchdown of the season.


"No Comment." - That's about right, he was virtually a no show anyway.


"I can't carry this team on my shoulders like this, today was pretty ridiculous" - Pinkney was still given an A for Effort, but not the W.

2006 ESPN/USA Today Poll Top 10
ESPN/SportsTicker
Through Week 3

1.Ohio State (3-0) 1500pts
2.Notre Dame (3-0) 1476pts
3.LSU (3-0) 1425pts
4.USC (2-0) 1403pts
5.Oklahoma (3-0) 1208pts
6.Texas (2-1) 1084pts
7.West Virginia (3-0) 1050pts
8.Louisville (3-0) 1020pts
9.Tennessee (3-0) 971pts
10.Florida State (3-0) 956pts

2006 ESPN/USA Today Heisman Watch
ESPN/SportsTicker
Through Week 3

1.QB Brady Quinn- Notre Dame - 39/53,445yds,8TD -Week3: vs MICH W(16-14)--Injured in Game--
2.HB Adrian Peterson- Oklahoma - 67rush,379yds,2TD,7Rec,130yds,3 TD -Week3: at OREG W(35-7)
3.QB Drew Weatherford- Florida State - 66/90,823yds,18rush,13 Total TD -Week3: vs CLEM W(38-34)
4.WR Early Doucet- LSU - 20Rec,183yds,5TD -Week3: at AUB W(19-16)
5.HB Selvin Young- TEXAS - 62rush,482yds,5TD,8rec,159yds,TD -Week3: at RICE W(55-7)

C-USA (EAST) Conference Standings
Through Week 3

1. Memphis - (1-2)@ ECU - W 44-24
2. ECU - (1-2)vs Memphis - L 24-44
3. Southern Miss - (1-2)vs NCSU - L 14-21
4. Marshall - (2-1)@ KSU - W 26-14
5. UCF - (2-1)vs USF - W 45-14
6. UAB - (0-3)@ #13UGA - L 6-30

[Matt10]

Re: "Every Man a Tiger" - A University of Memphis Dynasty (NCAA 2007)

"TAKE THE WEEK OFF"
FOGETTA-BOUT-IT...

Memphis,TN (AP) -- Just because it says "bye" in the schedule for week 4, the Tigers are doing the complete opposite, which really isn't that much of a surprise considering #9 Tennessee is the next opponent.

"It's time to really prove why we played Oklahoma two weeks ago," states HC Tommy West, "We didn't play for pride, to win, we played that game to show what we're worth to ourselves, to teach ourselves that even by losing we can show how good of a team we are."

Rumor has it Coach West has been sounding the scrimmage whistle at the beginning of every practice section. This means no warmup, no stretching, no time to wake up.

"We have to adjust ourselves to their (Tennessee) mentality," says West,"In the Oklahoma game we over prepared, we prepared to think of the worse that could happen - I'll be it we stuck around - but we were also blindsided a couple times, which we knew was going to happen anyway. You have to expect the unexpected with a team like Tennessee, my guys will be so ready by gametime - they won't even know it."

Whether those are famous last words or not remains to be seen.

On another subject, two recruits have been confirmed as arrivals for week 4. Both players are cornerbacks in which currently the Tigers are rated at an F+;oddly enough the Tigers are on top with 103pts off turnovers for the season, leading in the C-USA East.

Out of Martinez,Georgia is Jonathan McKinney, one of the Tigers' main targeted prospect. McKinney is a 6'3,190lbs cornerback with deceptive speed and has excellent on field awareness. On McKinney's list, Memphis is his first choice, with the University of Florida a distant second.

"I like the idea of helping out a struggling defense," says McKinney, "So far everything has been great on this visit. All the guys have shown me great respect and courtesy and it's been pretty much a blast from the start."

With great power, comes discipline - and that is something McKinney has rumored to lack. Coach West doesn't feel it will be much of a problem though.

"I just want him to sign", states West," - you got a kid with his ability you take the good with the bad. I know he's not going to be a T.O or anything, so there's no real worry on my part."

McKinney has chosen to follow the team to Knoxville for the Tigers' week 5 matchup against the Volunteers of Tennessee.

One of the only recruits from Mississippi is Rudy Gould, Cornerback, that the Tigers have targeted and have been really impressed with his attitude on and off the field.

"Prestige doesn't matter to him," says Coach West, "I like that he doesn't care about that and he doesn't judge us based off of our 3-star prestige. He wants to compete for the job as a starter but also understands that he just wants to play the game and help the team win games next year, I sense alot of maturity from this young man."

Gould is listed at 6"0 and 173lbs, but is hoping to pack on more muscle mass by the end of his senior year.

OFFICIAL VISITS (9/17-9/23)

CB + 6"3,190 LBS
[HOMETOWN] Martinez, GA
[INTEREST LEVEL] 1st
[40] 4.37, [BP] 205, [VJ] 38.6", [HNDS] C-, [FA] A+,
[POTENTIAL] Good
[DISCIPLINE] Poor
[RECRUITING COMMENTS] "We're going to have to maximize our points to have him sign, he's kind of a wild man so you never know what he will do - we have to make sure we're not his last minute decision, if not there could be some consequences as he could become a T.O-like figure and that's pretty much not good for the program."


CB + 6"0,173 LBS
[HOMETOWN] Moss Point, MS
[INTEREST LEVEL] 2nd (Texas - 1st)
[40] 4.37, [BP] 225, [VJ] 38.1", [HNDS] B+, [FA] A,
[POTENTIAL] Good
[DISCIPLINE] Good
[RECRUITING COMMENTS] "He hasn't visited Texas yet, so we have to make the most out of this trip for him. We're going to make sure to give him some time to shine so he'll feel comfortable here in Memphis. I think being one of the only Mississippi recruits that we've targeted is doing wonders to his ego - we'll milk that for all its worth."

[Matt10]

Re: "Every Man a Tiger" - A University of Memphis Dynasty (NCAA 2007)

Presented by CBS Sports



_______________________________________
SCORING SUMMARY
GA Tech 25, UVA 24
_______________________________________

1st Quarter:
TD UVA 0-7, McCabe to Santi,25 YD Rec (XP)
TD GA Tech 7-7, T.Choice,4 YD Run (XP)
2nd Quarter:
FG GA Tech 10-7, T.Bell 48 YD FG
FG UVA 10-10, N.Greenbaum 38 YD FG
FG GA Tech 13-10, T.Bell 43 YD FG
3rd Quarter:
TD UVA 13-17, McCabe to Davis,8 YD Rec (XP)
TD UVA 13-24, McCabe to Johnson,14 YD Rec (XP)
TD GA Tech 19-24,T.Choice,1 YD Run (XP)
4th Quarter:
TD GA Tech 25-24,G.Gayton,27 YD IN RET TD (2PT NO GOOD)
____________________________________

2006 ESPN/USA Today Poll Top 10
ESPN/SportsTicker
Through Week 4

1.Ohio State (4-0) 1497pts
2.Notre Dame (4-0) 1431pts
3.LSU (4-0) 1341pts
4.USC (3-0) 1298pts
5.Oklahoma (4-0) 1219pts
6.Texas (3-1) 1130pts
7.West Virginia (4-0) 1119pts
8.Louisville (4-0) 1074pts
9.Tennessee (4-0) 989pts
10.Florida State (4-0) 934pts

2006 ESPN/USA Today Heisman Watch
ESPN/SportsTicker
Through Week 4

1.QB Jamarcus Russell- LSU - 83/135,1137yds,35rush,187yds,15 Total TDs -Week4: vs Tul W(57-17)
2.QB Brady Quinn- Notre Dame - 58/93,712yds,11TD -Week4: at MSU W(39-14)
3.QB Drew Weatherford- Florida State - 80/114,968yds,28rush,17 Total TD -Week4: vs RICE W(42-3)
4.HB Adrian Peterson- Oklahoma - 95rush,592yds,4TD,7Rec,130yds,3 TD -Week4: vs MTSU W(34-14)
5.HB Arian Foster- TENNESSEE - 78rush,445yds,7TD,10rec,228yds,TD -Week4: vs MARSHALL W(41-14)

C-USA (EAST) Conference Standings
Through Week 4

1. Memphis - (1-2) BYE
2. ECU - (1-3)vs #7WVU - L 7-38
3. Marshall - (2-2)@ #9TEN - L 14-41
4. UCF - (2-1)NextGame (Tue,9/26 vs USM)
3. Southern Miss - (1-2)NextGame (Tue,9/26 at UCF)
6. UAB - (1-3)@ vs Ms St - W 20-17

[Matt10]

Re: "Every Man a Tiger" - A University of Memphis Dynasty (NCAA 2007)

Week 5 - MEMPHIS @ #9 TENNESSEE

Heisman hopeful, RB Arian Foster, is going to be a handful for the Tigers defense.

Date and Time: 9/30/06, 3h30pm
Weather: Humid
Surface: Field Grass

Record: 1-2

Last Game: @ECU, W 44-24

Player Watch: LB Heath Grant, Grant has been solid for the Memphis defense this season, already picking off 3 interceptions in only two games. Grant is known to hide behind the big D-Line and at the last second make his move, he has solid awareness and sub-par speed but great tackling.

Grades: OVR(B-),OFF(C+),DEF(B-)

Coach Comments: "My boys are ready to get blind-sided, it's going to be quite a blast. They've got some key injuries in which we're going to really exploit."

Injuries: None



Record: 4-0

Last Game: at Marshall, W 41-14

Player Watch: HB Arian Foster, Foster has made his way up the heisman food-chain, right behind Oklahoma's Adrian Peterson in the Runningback department. Foster is known for his oustanding speed and ability to make tacklers miss. Expect him to have a career performance against the Tigers.
Grades: OVR(B+),OFF(B),DEF(B+)

Coach Coments: "How's this for getting blindsided,Coach West:'You're Going Down!' " (Proceeds with high-fives around the room)

Injuries:
MLB James Turner [75ovr] (JR) - Pulled Hamstring - 2 Weeks
WR Lucas Taylor (SO) [78ovr] - Partially Torn ACL - 2 Weeks
SS Antwan Stewart (SR) [91ovr] - Bruised Thigh - 7 Weeks
MLB Marvin Mitchell (SR) [87ovr] - Bruised Thigh - Out for Season

[Matt10]

Re: "Every Man a Tiger" - A University of Memphis Dynasty (NCAA 2007)

TOO MUCH TO HANDLE
VOLUNTEERS DESTROY TIGERS

Knoxville, TN (AP) -- Did anyone really believe Coach West and his Tigers could pull off the unimaginable? Despit Coach West's "visions" of winning against the Volz, him and the boys were man-handled 54-14, for yet another loss to a Top 25 school, sending them to 1-4 on the season.

The combination play of Tennessee's Erike Ainge to WR Robert Meachem was completely unstoppable for the Memphis defense. The two hooked up three times for a touchdown everytime, Meachem finished his day with 4 receptions for 105 yards and 3 touchdowns.

After some good stops by the defense, which led to two Field Goals by Wilhoit - the flood-gates opened.Ainge hooked up with Meachem for the first touchdown of the game through a pass and catch of 50 yards, the extra point was blocked however.

The second quarter wasn't any better for the Memphis defense, but the next score came from a terrible pass by the offense. QB Martin Hankins was pressured just enough for him to flip the ball to a wide open, or so he thought, Chris Singleton, but out of no where came flying in CB Inquoris Johnson who caught the ball and returned it 45 yards and a score. RB Arian Foster didn't seem to be awake in the first half, but he managed to squeak into the endzone at the end of the second quarter for a two yard score, putting up a 26-0 halftime score for the home team.

Eventually, Foster gained his confidence back after a 33 yard run at the very beginning of the second half, by breaking some 4 tackles before trotting into the endzone.

The second half also gave some confidence to Coach West, who decided enough was enough and put in 3rd String QB, Sophomore Will Hudgens - due to Hankins consistency to throw 4 picks and no TDs.

"I wasn't giving up," says West, "This was Willie's dream moment. He hates the Volunteers as much as anyone who goes to Memphis could. From the minute we stepped onto the bus, he didn't say a word, just glared at nothing - he was ready to play today and I wanted him to know that I was aware."

For once, West was right. Will Hudgens made a statement immediately, throwing a 68-yard bomb to Maurice Jones on his very first throw of the seson, which Jones gladly accepted and ran into the endzone untouched for the Tigers' first score of the game.

Four minutes later, the Tigers' score looked like nothing as Ainge quick passed his way into the Memphis terriotory once more, and of course finishing off the 80 yard drive with a TD Pass to Meachem for 12-yards.

The Fourth Quarter scoring wasn't all that different, except that the Tigers managed a turnover for once - Ainge expected to hook up with Meachem again, but a blur of McDonald's hand caught the ball instead - McDonald was hit-sticked in mid-air by Meachem before he could even run away.

Ainge did throw his last TD to Meachem for 25 yards near the end of the game, but also ran in from 2 yards out with a minute left. Memphis put up their second score of the game after some brilliant play by Hudgens. With 17ticks left Hudgens through a penetrating prayer through the orange of the Volunteers which Ryan Scott manged to catch for the Tigers second TD.

Erik Ainge finished his career day with 343yards passing and only 9 incompletions with just one interception. Arian Foster pulled on a late siege with the running game and finsihed with 104yards and 2 TDs.

Coach West has announced that Hudgens will start against the UAB Blazers for the Tigers' second conference game of the season. While no decision is final until gameday, West has stated that Hudgens seems to be "the only player with passion" on the team.

"He'll be home, in Memphis", states West, "For our first HOME game of the season. There's no other way to script this one, there's no way he can fail - look what he did to Tennessee, imagine what he'll be able to do with Homefield advantage and the Blazers. He's ready."


WEEK 6 - vs UAB (1-4)




_______________________________________
SCORING SUMMARY
Tennessee 54, Memphis 14
_______________________________________

1st Quarter:
FG Tenn 3-0, J.Wilhoit 41 YD FG
FG Tenn 6-0, J.Wilhoit 34 YD FG
TD Tenn 12-0, Ainge to Meachem, 50 YD Rec (XP No Good)
2nd Quarter:
TD Tenn 19-0, I.Johnson INT RET TD 45 YD (XP)
TD Tenn 260-0, A.Foster, 2 YD Run (XP)
3rd Quarter:
TD Tenn 33-0, A.Foster, 33 YD Run (XP)
TD Memphis 33-7, W.Hudgens to Jones, 68 YD Rec (XP)
TD Tenn 40-7, Ainge to Mechem, 12 YD Rec (XP)
4th Quarter:
TD Tenn 47-7, Ainge to Meachem, 25 YD Rec (XP)
TD Tenn 54-7, Ainge, 2 YD Run (XP)
TD Memphis, Hudgens to Scott, 12 YD Rec (XP)
_______________________________________
PLAYER STATS
_______________________________________

TENN:
Passing - E.Ainge: 20/29,343yds,3TD,INT
Rushing - A.Foster: 23rush,104yds,2 TD
Receiving - *R.Meachem: 4 Rec 105yds,3 TD
Defensive - J.Wade: 6tak,TFL,2 INT

MEMPHIS:
Passing - W.Hudgens: 9/16,222yds,2 TD,2 INT
Rushing - J.Gaither: 12rush,16yds
Receiving - R.Scott: 5 Rec 113yds,TD
Defensive - J***fus: 9tak,TFL




GAME REFLECTIONS

"Dawg, I was unstoppable - 'Dem boys couldn't contain me." - It's True, Meachem was unreal.


"Well, I just tried to make a play - lucky it got turned over. I'm pretty sure we threw a pick afterwards though." - Williams on his great catch of the day, but was overlooked when Hankins threw the interception on the next play.


"I played Okay. Shouldn't have had two interceptions, but I'm pretty happy with how I played - especially against a team like the Volz." - Hudgens could be new hope for the struggling Tigers.

2006 ESPN/USA Today Poll Top 10
ESPN/SportsTicker
Through Week 5

1.Ohio State (5-0) 1502pts
2.Notre Dame (5-0) 1343pts
3.LSU (5-0) 1285pts
4.USC (4-0) 1248pts
5.Oklahoma (4-0) 1174pts
6.Texas (4-1) 1098pts
7.West Virginia (4-0) 1066pts
8.Louisville (4-0) 1014pts
9.Tennessee (5-0) 963pts
10.Florida State (4-0) 913pts

2006 ESPN/USA Today Heisman Watch
ESPN/SportsTicker
Through Week 5

1.QB Jamarcus Russell- LSU - 96/157,1364yds,45rush,204yds,16 Total TDs -Week5: vs Ms. St W(43-7)
2.QB John D. Booty- USC - 77/120,1218yds,17TD -Week5: at WSU W(52-14)
3.HB Arian Foster- TENNESSEE - 99rush,549yds,9TD,13rec,292yds,TD -Week5: vs MEMPHIS W(54-14)
4.HB Selvin Young- TEXAS - 89rush,661yds,9TD,9Rec,167yds, TD -Week5: vs MTSU W(34-14)
5.QB Drew Weatherford- Florida State - 80/114,968yds,28rush,17 Total TD -Week5: BYE

C-USA (EAST) Conference Standings
Through Week 5

1. UCF - (3-1) vs USM - W 31-24
2. Memphis - (1-3) @ #9TEN - L 14-54
3. ECU - (1-3) - BYE
4. Marshall - (2-2) - BYE
5. Southern Miss - (1-3) @ UCF - L 24-31
6. UAB - (1-4)@ vs Troy - L 21-24

[Matt10]

Re: "Every Man a Tiger" - A University of Memphis Dynasty (NCAA 2007)

The fire is rumored to have started in the lower side radio pressbox room (insert), no suspects have been verified as of yet.

CHANGE OF VENUE
STADIUM FIRE LEADS TO TIGERS TRAVELING TO ALABAMA

Memphis, TN (AP) -- "I regret to inform you all that this weeks game against the UAB Blazers will not be played here in Tennessee this coming Saturday." Those were the words stated by Head Coach Tommy West to the students on Wednesday evening, a day after the fire in Memorial Stadium's pressbox room.

Rumor has it that some electronic equipment for the University of Memphis Student's Radio Association had caught on fire well after the student's brodcast, which took place around 10am Tuesday morning.

The fire was said to be "containable" according to Fire Chief Howard Backdraft.

"We didn't expect it to be too huge," says the Chief, "But it was big enough to worry about for the safety of this weekend's game."

In response to the question of the possibility of having the room off-limits and still having the game at the stadium, Backdraft replied, "We are afraid that if the fire were to have seeped into the ceiling, their could be delayed collapse and there's no telling what that collapse could do to the people above or below the room".

So in agreement with the Blazers, the Tigers will travel Friday afernoon to Birmingham, Alabama in hopes to get their second win of the season and second win of the conference. As good sportsmanship the Blazers have also agreed that the Tigers be permitted to wear their Blue "Home" Jerseys for the game.

yeah, so I had a TYPO from the last report - big woop, wanna fight about it!?

Week 6 - MEMPHIS @ UAB

After his great performance last week, Hudgens will make the start against the Blazers.

Date and Time: 10/7/06, 12h30pm
Weather: Warm
Surface: Field Grass

Record: 1-3

Last Game: @ #9 Tenn, L 14-54

Player Watch: WR Maurice Jones, Jones has started to play very well and is getting into a groove. If he can find himself open, expect him to get the ball as many times as Hudgens feels most comfortable throwing to him than anyone else.

Grades: OVR(B-),OFF(C+),DEF(B-)

Coach Comments: "It still feels like a home game, and that's where our edge is going to come into play."

Injuries: None



Record: 1-4

Last Game: vs Troy, L 21-24

Player Watch: LE Larry McSwain, McSwain is the captain and the leader on defense. He's a senior and gives everything there is to give on the field. Expect him to get at least a couple of sacks against a weak offensive line in Memphis.
Grades: OVR(C+),OFF(C),DEF(C+)

Coach Coments: "There's not that much to say except that we have to go out there and do our job. We are very lucky to be able to play Memphis away from home, I'm sure that fire is still on their minds and we'll play that as one of their weaknesses."

Injuries:
SS Chris Felder [81ovr] (SR) - Foot Stress Fracture - 4 Weeks

[Matt10]

Re: "Every Man a Tiger" - A University of Memphis Dynasty (NCAA 2007)

COMING TOGETHER
TIGERS OVERCOME EARLY WEEK DISASTER TO GAIN FIRST "HOME" WIN

Birmingham, AL (AP) -- It wasn't the fact that the entire University of Memphis campus was at the game, it wasn't the fact that it was the first time the Tigers wore their lucky blue jerseys, it wasn't the fact that if they win the Tigers would take hold of second place in their conference; it was the fact that the Tigers came together as a University for the first time this season.

With the Tuesday fire in Memorial Stadium's press box room in everyone's mind, the Tigers needed to gain some sort of momentum heading into a big clash against their conference rivals, the UAB Blazers.

Early in the week, coach West described new starting QB Will Hudgens as the "savior" of the Tigers struggling offense. While Hudgens didn't exactly live up to the name against the Blazers, he has shown why his coach has praised him so highly. Hudgens finished his day with only 10 completions on 22 attempts, but for 252 yards with 2 touchdowns and 4 interceptions. While, Hudgens showcased his ability to throw the ball, WR Mario Practcher gladly received the ball, only twice, but for a whopping 109 yards with a long 74 yard bomb for a touchdown.

Something that has been plaguing the Memphis offense all season has been the running game, or lack there of. Part of the blame goes to the offensive line, another part goes to User Matt10.

"I suck at running," says Matt10, "I try to wait for the holes to open up and lay off the sprint, but when that happens the AI just bolts right in there - breaking every block and I lose a good 5 yards or so."

In hopes to achieve some sort of life in the running game, the Tigers ran the ball 32 times for a pathetic total of 76 yards, but 2 touchdowns. New to the starting role was game-time decision, third string RB T.J. PItts, Redshirt Freshman - making his first start of his college career.

"That's right, he was a gametime decsion," says HC Tommy West, "I have to show these guys I mean business - you're going to lose your job if you don't produce in games. Anyone can showcase their talent in practice, but it's the gamers that I want. I know that's not traditional, but I want results - and the runningbacks I have right now ARE NOT producing those results." In response to who will start this week at Runningback, coach West had this to say, "Whoever wants to."

T.J. Pitts may have not produced the yards for West, only achieving 38 on 18 attempts, but he did score a touchdown as did Jamarcus Gaither, who was the more impressive gaining 35 yards on 10, an 18 yard gain on a option play will often improve the yards though.

Turnovers, as always, was the name of the game in this one as both QBs struggled with their protection - UAB's Chris Williams throwing two interceptions, one to Player of the Game from Memphis, FS Wesley Smith who returned the interception 41 yards and a score. Smith finished his strong game with 6 total tackles, an Interception and a forced fumble - which led to DE Bryan Douglas to pick it up and score his first defensive TD of the year.

While statistically the Tigers faultered, their emotions stayed in check - never looking down after bad plays as they had before in the previous weeks. Much of the inspiration came from their "home" support.

"Yeah, whenever we turned the ball over, we just would hear the words 'Coming Together' chanted and we knew it was from our fellow Tigers," says QB Will Hudgens, "You need that when you're struggling, now we just have to work on hearing that without them being there when we're away - that's how we'll become successful."

The Tigers and their supporters will be hosting their interstate rivals, the Mid Tennessee State Blue Raiders (2-4), in their first Official home game of the 2006 season. The Tigers' AD has announced that Memorial Stadium is repaired and ready to go, so the only worrying will have to be done on the field, not in the pressbox.


WEEK 7 - vs Mid Tenn State (2-4)




_______________________________________
SCORING SUMMARY
Memphis 41, UAB 28
_______________________________________

1st Quarter:
TD Memphis 7-0, Hudgens to Jones, 13 YD Rec (XP)
TD UAB 7-7, Williams to Edwards, 22 YD Rec (XP)
TD UAB 7-14, W.Evans INT RET TD 17 YD (XP)
TD Memphis 13-14, Pitts, 2 YD Run (NO XP)
2nd Quarter:
TD UAB 13-21, C.White, 6 YD Run (XP)
TD Memphis 19-21, Gaither, 4 YD Run (XP)
TD Memphis 25-21, Douglas 2 YD FUMBLE RET (NO 2PT XP)
3rd Quarter:
TD Memphis 31-21, W.Smith INT RET TD 41 YD (NO 2PT XP)
4th Quarter:
TD Memphis 38-21, Hudgens to Pratcher, 74 YD Rec (XP)
TD UAB 38-28, Williams to White, 28 YD Rec (XP)
FG Memphis 41-28, T.Adams 28 YD
_______________________________________
PLAYER STATS
_______________________________________

MEMPHIS:
Passing - W.Hudgens: 10/22,252yds,2 TD,4 INT
Rushing - T.Pitts: 18rush,38yds,TD
Receiving - M.Pratcher: 2 Rec 109yds,TD
Defensive - *W.Smith: 6tak,TFL,INT,FF

TENN:
Passing - C.Williams: 16/39,212yds, 2TD, 2INT
Rushing - *C.White: 11rush,44yds, TD
Receiving - *C.White: 4 Rec 83yds, TD
Defensive - L.McSwain: 5tak,TFL,2 SACK




GAME REFLECTIONS

"Well, it wasn't that hard to get in - but it felt good when I did." - Spoken like a guy who wants to start next week...(TJ Pitts)


"You have to make plays when you're backed up - I just made the wrong play." - Chris Williams decided to play option with the football gods - and lost.


"It was a good momentum breaker for them. I wanted to focus on catching the ball, who'd of known that I would've ended up into the endzone." - Mario Pratcher on his 74-yard bomb TD reception.

[Matt10]

Re: "Every Man a Tiger" - A University of Memphis Dynasty (NCAA 2007)

Ordinarily I would create an animated .gif file - but for two reasons 1. freespace, 2. text length - I decided not to, I think this worked out pretty well eitherway though.

PARDON THE INTERRUPTION - NCAA EDITION

Presented by Tony Kornheiser and Michael Wilbon



TK: Hello, hello and welcome to a special edition of PTI - the College edition, I'm Tony Korneiser and this esteemed gentleman across from me is
Michael Wilbon.

MW: Nice of you to join us in the studio for once, Tony. I'm sorry to hear about your failed sitcom "Children of the Korn" where you starred
as a divorced Foster parent to 12 kids, who later become menaces to society...

TK: .... (glares)

MW: ....So back to football?

TK: That's nice. Let's get right into it since this show is only a half hour and we've got some things to cover. We've never done a college
football editiion, so this should be pretty special.

MW: Well, that's what the guys across the hall are for, the College Football Saturday crew -

TK: Yes, but we argue profusely and ridicule eachother - that's TV,baby!

MW: No baby.



TK: Speaking of babies, I'm sure pre-season Heisman candidate Brady Quinn, QB of Notre Dame, is pretty upset that he's not even in the running
anymore.

MW: That doesn't mean he's a baby, but I'll run with it. Brady Quinn was considered the prime candidate for this year - where did he go? What do you think, was it all just hype?

TK: Anything that has to do with pre-season college football is all hype. Sure Quinn had a great season last year, and yeah you would think with the constant guidance of Charlie Weis that he would improve, we're only in the 7th week of the season - there's plenty of time for Quin to regain his composure and start producing those numbers we saw last year.

MW: The man who currently has that #1 voted spot right now is Quarterback, Junior out of LSU - Jamarcus Russell; is he pretty much the exact replica of Vince Young?

TK: No way. Vince Young could do it all, comparing Russell to Young would be stretching it, but I understand how some could see that possibility. Jamarcus Russell is having a great year so far, he's got nearly 1,600 yards throwing, 235 yards rushing and 20 total touchdowns - with a big win against the Gators, At the Swamp none the less, his stock can only rise and rise.

MW: That's true, but look at who LSU has faced this season - UL Lafayette, Arizona and Tulane - anyone can put up huge numbers against these guys - granted he's gotten his team out of some serious james with big wins against Auburn and Florida, but I can see his true test will be week 10 at #7 Tennessee.

TK: Someones stock who is rising is definitely TEXAS' Senior RB Selvin Young, Michael, how good is this guy?

MW: Young has had two years to show what he's worth and within the first two he played the backup role - a sub-par season last year, and if it had not been the injury of sophomore starting running back Jamaal Charles - we wouldn't even be talking about Young.

TK: Some have said his strength is probably his weakness, I don't think it matters with how fast this guy runs, he's a big guy, but with deceptive speed, not as speedy as Charles - but still pretty damn good.

MW: Yeah, part of the reason of why his stock rose in the first place was when Charles got injured against Ohio State and Young put up 47 yards on only 8 carries and scored a touchdown.

TK: Our last covered guy is Seminoles' Sophomore QB Drew Weatherford, how did he get up there even into contention for the Heisman?

MW: It's simple, the kid can play. That's it - the kid has heart and he can play. He's got that zip on the ball that you want out of a youngster - because if he misthrows, at least noone else can catch those stingers.

TK: Wilbon, you don't even know how to throw a party, let alone a football-

MW: Seriously, you don't make sense.

TK: Shutup - Weatherford may have the heart and whatever - that's all fine and dandy - but it's his numbers that are putting him up there as the third in the top 3 candidates. But heck, anyone that throws 5 touchdowns in one game - you're going to get noticed.

MW: His accuracy has been very decent, but that's definitely because of Lorenzo Booker - who supplies a solid running game and enables Weatherford to make the accurate throws.

TK: Well that goes without saying - any QB is going to prosper more if their RB gets the job done.




MW: Let's get right into it - Injuries, oh man, the medical staff is busy these days aren't they?

TK: It's getting pretty ridiculous - but it just goes to show you how rough this game is getting, and whoever can dish out and take the punishment the most, will always stay on top, or at least healthy.

MW: Well, there are some pretty serious casualties for some teams - take for example Ohio State, Troy Smith - out for 6 weeks with a broken fibula!

TK: Man that must hurt.

MW: Tony, you don't even know where your fibula is!

TK: Well, that doesn't mean I don't know that it hurts - if Troy Smith can't play football, it must hurt pretty damn bad.

MW: Anyway, Troy Smith is one of the many star players on the injury list - you've got Brian Brohm of Louisville with a Ruptured disk - then John David Booty of USC, out for 4 weeks with Broken Hand, Justin Vincent RB at LSU and Michael Bush also out of Louisville - it's pretty crazy right now.

TK: Well this is college football, but to see this many potential star athletes go down - yeah it's disheartening, but it's also letting their backups step up huge in their place. This is how you win national titles, yeah it's hard, but look how your team can come together - that is what this game is all about, it'll be an exciting next couple of weeks to see who is really the top team to beat.



MW: Fair enough, let's just dive straight into our concerns now with the #1 ranked Ohio State Buckeyes - can they go all the way?

TK: With Justin Zwick at QB? No problem, this team is the team to beat and I believe they're only going to get stronger through their struggles. They've only got one major injury in Troy Smith, but other than that everyone is perfectly fine.

MW: Well, Tony, if you'd look at the teams they've played against and the scores, it wouldn't look all that impressive, except for the Texas game and the Bowling Green shutout. First week was hardly a convincing win against Northern Illinois, they won 28-13 - against Cincinnati, at home - they barely won 21-14; and that's the game Smith got injured.

TK: Right, but since then Ohio State have continued to dominate, beating Penn State and then #12 Iowa, eventually shutting out 0-6 Bowling Green 38-0. The fact of the matter is, THIS IS THE TEAM TO BEAT. They've got it all - running back, wide receivers, linebackers safeties - now the ONLY issue I would have is the defensive back depth, it's not the strongest, but with the talent level of the linebackers and safeties, that doesn't exactly matter as long as these guys can tackle.

MW: They've got 5-1 Michigan State up next, so we'll see just how solid they are and if Justin Zwick can continue his consistent production.



TK: Memphis...is that a typo? Guys? Hello?

MW: *whispers* I don't think so, we're supposed to cover them.

TK: *whispers* What are they, the "Kings"?

MW: *whispers* "Kings"?

TK: *whispers* Yeah, Elvis Presley ... King of Rock...Memphis...

MW: Ah, I gotchya.

TK: So Micheal *louder*, the Memphis Kings - um, who cares about these guys?

MW: Well, most likely whoever is covering them... or him [Elivs] *chuckles*

TK: ....

MW: Right, well the Memphis Kings are 2-3 on the season and....wait a minute...what's that...

* MEMHPIS TIGERS*

MW: Oh ho, thanks Stat-Boy/Teleprompter Guy....We're coving the Memphis Tigers, star team of Matt10's newest franchise for NCAA 2007.

TK: I knew it all along, I was just messing with you...hardy har har...

MW: Noone laughs like that.

TK: I do.

MW: ......

TK: ....

TK: Right, so the Tigers are coming off a win at UAB and are somewhat finding themselves this season aren't they, Michael?

MW: Yeah, they're coach, Tommy West, has an interesting approach to games - he'll put in anyone it seems. On his latest interview, he told the reporter that whoever wants to start, can start. What is that all about?

TK: Well even though that was directed towards the RB position, but it could apply to anyone on that team.

MW: This team cannot run the ball. West has tried 3 out of 4 of his running backs and the best one is still unnknown, he needs to just stick with one guy - week 7 is not the time to be unsure of who to start.

TK: What this team can do is pass, I've really enjoyed the switch from Martin Hankins to Sophomore Willie Hudgens - the "Savior" of Memphis football according to Coach West.

MW: I'm not so sure about a "savior", but he's got alot of potential to be something special. If that's what Coach West has to tell himself so he can still start the kid, then by goodness he should stick to that - and hopefully he will.

TK: Your final record for the Kings..erm...Tigers?

MW: Well the rest of the games except for Mid Tenn State are C-USA games and the Tigers are currently 4th, I'm guessing they'll go 8-4 and possibly a bowl bid.




TK: Okay, the #4 USC Trojans are 5-0, but they've got trouble looming. Unlike the Buckeyes, USC don't have the greatest of QBs, inexperienced RS Freshman Mark Sanchez will be facing a tough Arizona State (#22) side. Booty was injured in the beginning of the Washington game with a broken hand and as we said before, out for 4 weeks.

MW: I think they'll be okay, this is pretty much like Ohio State - they've got a remarkable amount of talent on this Trojan side. Just like the Buckeyes, the runningback, the Wide Receiver core and especially every aspect of the defense is rock solid. Sanchez will get his experience against the Sun Devils, but it'll definitely help him out until Booty comes back before the season officially ends.

TK: Well, the've got Arizona State, #23 California in week 12 and right after that #3 Notre Dame - here's to hoping there won't be anymore injuries for their sake.

MW: Even if they do get significan injuries, this team will be as solid as they always are - Pete Carrol knows what he's doing and there's no doubt in my mind that by the time the season's near over USC will be #2 or even #1.



TK: This is the big one this week, #15 against #16 - both of them are 4-2 and both teams are coming off CLOSE games that they lost - it cannot, I repeat, cannot get better than this game.

MW: Most def, this is the biggest game for both teams and will be heavily broadcasted throughout the nation. As for matchups, Florida edges out significantly - but we all know statistics and what not do not matter in big game rivalry games like this one, this SEC game is going to be on everyones television and I cannot wait for it. Who do you like in this one, Tony?

TK: Florida definitely - one word, Leak - Chris Leak is going to really show everyone what he's capable in this one. With almost 1600 yards passing, Leak is currently 5th in the Heisman voting - he's got 16 touchdowns but..., but 14 interceptions and knowing a defensive-minded team like Auburn, they're going to try to get inside his head pretty bad. But with Leak comes another weapon - in another QB that is. Freshman hoss Tim Tebow has over 122 yards rushing this seasn, averaging 5.8 yards a carry - look for Florida to play some serious mindgames with the aggressive defense.

MW: You know, usually I would say Auburn - my gut tells me to, but my gut also reminds me that big star Kenny Irons caught the injury bug for two more weeks with a strained knee. That's going to leav ALOT of passing for Brandon Cox, which could make this team significantly one-dimensional.

TK: Not necessarily, Tre Smith has been tested in the past and has done fairly well - but yeah, anytime you lose a guy like Kenny Irons things couldn't possibly go the right way. The underdog is Auburn - and that's why Florida is going to win it, even if Auburn is at home.


MW: Shifting gears completely, user Matt10 and Mr. Realism-aholic is in full gear with his Memphis Dynasty report - Tony, what do you think of it so far?

TK: It's got alot of work left to be done. Now, his focus on graphics are nice and all - but something tells me people aren't falling for the Tigers - hell, we thought they were the Kings, what does that tell you.

MW: Well it's also a good thing he's never cared aboout who reads or not and he does this for fun, but of course doing a Dynasty instead of an NFL Franchise is a whole new ball-game to him, I think that's why he's trying to do his homework on this southern team that is Memphis - would it have been easier if he did a team more like Missouri, who is in fact his favorite team?

TK: Well, it might've been easier. He went to parties with Mizzou's RB Tony Temple and was good friends with UCLA's CB Trey Brown in highschool - and UCLA is actually Matt10's second favorite team, yeah it would have been easier.

MW: So why Memphis?

TK: I'm not even sure he knows that, but he's delivering the message that these guys are decent and that Memphis is a challenging school to play with - he doesn't cheat himself into victories and isn't looking to win that many games - and if he does, that difficulty is raising up just a bit more.

[Matt10]

Re: "Every Man a Tiger" - A University of Memphis Dynasty (NCAA 2007)

C-USA (EAST) Conference Standings
Through Week 6

1. Marshall - (3-2) vs UCF - W 46-43
2. Memphis - (2-3) @ UAB - W 41-28
3. UCF - (3-2) - at Marshall - L 43-46
4. Southern Miss - (2-3) - @ Tulsa - W 34-17
5. ECU - (2-3) vs Virginia - W 38-13
6. UAB - (1-5)@ vs Memphis - L 28-41

[Matt10]

Re: "Every Man a Tiger" - A University of Memphis Dynasty (NCAA 2007)

Week 7 - MID TENN ST. at MEMPHIS

Coach West has given Joseph Doss a second chance at the starting role - look out Blue Raiders.

Date and Time: 10/14/06, 7h00pm
Weather: Cool
Surface: Field Grass

Record: 2-3

Last Game: @ UAB, W 41-28

Player Watch: HB Joseph Doss, Doss is getting his second chance today. After a dissapoiting start to the season - Doss is determined to get back on track and rally his team into victories. Look for Doss to make some big plays today when his team will need him the most, expect him to get up to 25-35 carries in this one.

Grades: OVR(B-),OFF(C+),DEF(B-)

Coach Comments: "It's official, we're home...And we're together as a team - it can't get any better."

Injuries: None



Record: 2-4

Last Game: vs #8Louisville, L 10-33

Player Watch: HB Eugene Gross, Gross is something kind of special - he may not be the tallest man on the field, but the way he plays is as if he's a giant. Memphis will have to look out for Gross' ability to hide behind the offensive line on key downs and he also possesses the ability to line up as a 3rd or 4th receiver for the Blue Raiders.
Grades: OVR(B-),OFF(C+),DEF(B-)

Coach Coments: "They may think they're going to win every game from now on - it won't start with us, I can tell you that much. I saw alot of good things in our Louisville game and I will definitely be implementing some of those things into our game today against the Tigers."

Injuries:
LB Coy Williamson [69ovr] (FR) - Turf Toe - Questionable
LB Sean Mosley [87ovr] (JR) - Ruptured Disk - Out for Season

[Matt10]

Re: "Every Man a Tiger" - A University of Memphis Dynasty (NCAA 2007)

UGGGLYYY!
TIGERS GET THE JOB DONE DESPITE TURNING BALL OVER

Memphis, TN (AP) -- The Memphis Tigers went to .500 for the season with a win at home against their rivals, the Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders, with a final score of 26-7. A result of 10 total turnovers in the rain, produced a lack of offensive touch and finishing, on both teams' parts. The weatherman may have said Memorial Stadium would have ugly skies, and that's just the way the Tigers played, ugly.

Early in the week, Coach West of the Tigers had said that he wanted to find the running game - that was intended for Joseph Doss' second chance, however the day belonged to backup running back T.J. Pitts. Pitts put up impressive numbers in the rain and acting as the backup role took advantage of the tiring Blue Raider defense, finishing with 91 yards on 13 carries and one touchdown for 6 yards, that inevitably proved to be the momentum breaker.

Memphis held onto their 7-0 lead, a pass to Corey Singleton from Hudgens for a 16 yard score, for three grueling quarters, up until the team's fumblitis kicked in.

Wilie Hudgens got the wind knocked out of him early in the fourth quarter, which led to an odd coaching decision to put Patrick Byrne in by Coach West.

"Martin [Hankins] couldn't find his helmet," said West, "I grabbed the nearest guy to me and told him to get out there, it just happend to be Patrick".

Byrne had about just gotten the snap off before he was pressured by the Blue Raiders defense, which resulted in the first sack towards Byrne, and his first fumble in the 2006 season. The ball was recovered by a Tiger and Byrne and the Tigers were left with a tough 3rd and 19. Chance Dunleavy, Senior MLB for the Blue Raiders, bolted through the line as Byrne took the snap. Dunleavy smacked the ball out of the quarterback's grasp, and was picked up by LOLB Lonnie Clemons for a 14 yard fumble return for a touchdown.

Tied at 7 a piece, the Tigers regrouped as Hudgens took control again. Hudgens called an audible at the line of scrimmage for backup T.J. Pitts to run straight through instead of the intended HB Toss.

"Well, I saw them sneaking up," said Hudgens, "It was just enough movement for me to reconsider. Pitts had been good with the ball in his hands so I trusted he would get some decent yards."

Trust was the key and all Pitts had to do was go straight through, bounce outside, break one tackle and off he was - a 66 yard touchdown run to put the Tigers right back up 14-7.

An idiotic safety by Blue Raiders' QB Clint Marks extended the lead to 16-7 with under 5 minutes remaining. Marks was pressured fairly well on his own 2 yard line, dropped back, and dropped back too far - resulting in breaching the endzone line to give the Tigers a safety and himself the most embarrasing play of his college career.

An insurance field goal, 18 yard run by Doss, and the game was over. The Tigers came up victorious in the ugly weather 26-7, a convincing first win at home.

"We played pretty good," West reflected, "But there's alot of room for improvement. I was happy with the running game - the job got done, there isn't a running back controversy anymore, Pitts is our guy."

Coach West and his Tigers will be facing a struggling Tulsa side, which started the season with 3 wins, but has gone 0-3 the last couple of games, losing this week to ECU 37-42.

On a side note, Matt10 had been questioning whether or not his team would ever have any long injuries. Matt10's answer came sooner than he though as star receiver for the Tigers, Maurice Jones, will miss up to 4-5 weeks with a torn bicep suffered early in the second quarter.

"It's going to be interesting now", says Matt10, "I guess I doubted this game just a little bit too soon - can't wait to see how much of a challenge it's going to be, and who will step up in Maurice's place."



WEEK 7 - vs Tulsa (3-3)




_______________________________________
SCORING SUMMARY
Memphis 26, MTSU 7
_______________________________________

1st Quarter:
TD Memphis 7-0, Hudgens to Singleton, 16 YD Rec (XP)
2nd Quarter:
3rd Quarter:
4th Quarter:
TD MTSU 7-7, Clemons 15 YD FUM RET TD (XP)
TD Memphis 14-7, Pitts 66 YD TD RUN (XP)
SAFETY Memphis 16-7, Team Safety
TD Memphis 26-7, Doss 18 YD RTD RUN (XP)
_______________________________________
PLAYER STATS
_______________________________________

MEMPHIS:
Passing - W.Hudgens: 9/21,146yds, TD, INT
Rushing - *T.Pitts: 13rush,91yds,TD - J.Doss: 25rush,82yds,TD
Receiving - C.Singleton: 2 Rec 30yds,TD
Defensive - B.Douglas: 5tak, 2 TFL, 2 SACK,FF

TENN:
Passing - C.Marks: 11/31,154yds, 2INT
Rushing - E.Gross: 13rush, 35yds
Receiving - S.Chicola: 3 Rec 48yds
Defensive - *C.Dunleavy: 10tak, 3 TFL, SACK, FF




GAME REFLECTIONS

"I was just focused all game long, that's all that has been missing - focus." - T.J. Pitts on his 66 yard touchdown scamper into the endzone.


"Seriously, kill me now." - Marks on his bonehead play of the year.


"Well, I didn't play as well as I could've, but it's always nice to get into the endzone and celebrate with the fans." - Joseph Doss after scoring the last TD of the game.

2006 ESPN/USA Today Poll Top 10
ESPN/SportsTicker
Through Week 7

1.Ohio State (7-0) 1503pts
2.LSU (7-0) 1407pts
3.Notre Dame (6-0) 1407pts
4.Tennessee (6-0) 1170pts
5.West Virginia (6-0) 1127pts
6.Texas (6-1) 1123pts
7.Florida State (6-0) 1022pts
8.Louisville (6-0) 1022pts
9.Oklahoma (5-1) 858pts
10.Nebraska (6-1) 837pts

2006 ESPN/USA Today Heisman Watch
ESPN/SportsTicker
Through Week 7

1.HB Selvin Young- TEXAS - 144rush,1040yds,12TD,13Rec,304yds,3 TDs -Week7: vs Baylor W(38-21)
2.QB Drew Weatherford- Florida State - 129/194,1587yds,38rush,26 Total TD -Week7: at Duke W(28-23)
3.QB Drew Tate- IOWA - 151/246,1912yds,34rush,23 Total TDs-Week7: at IU W(33-14)
4.HB Adrian Peterson- Oklahoma - 132rush,927yds,11TD,9rec,163yds,3TDs -Week7: vs ISU W(42-10)
5.QB Colt McCoy- Texas - 101/163,1668yds,21TD -Week7: vs Baylor W(38-21)

C-USA (EAST) Conference Standings
Through Week 7

1. Memphis - (3-3) vs MTSU - W 26-7
2. ECU - (3-3) vs Tulsa - W 42-37
3. Southern Miss - (3-3) - vs Houston - W 38-24
4. Marshall - (3-3) - @ SMU - L 17-20
5. UCF - (4-2) vs Pittsburgh - W 28-17
6. UAB - (2-5) @ Rice - W 27-24

[Matt10]

Re: "Every Man a Tiger" - A University of Memphis Dynasty (NCAA 2007)

Week 8 - TULSA at MEMPHIS

His name may sound familiar, but Duke Calhoun will be a special teams focal point this week.

Date and Time: 10/21/06, 12h30pm
Weather: Warm
Surface: Field Grass

Record: 3-3

Last Game: vs MTSU, W 26-7

Player Watch: HB T.J. Pitts, Once again a running back is the player to watch for Memphis, only because Coach Pitts has put so much pressure on his running game to produce, something T.J. Pitts did last week against the Blue Raiders last week. Look for T.J. to get a good 20-25 reps and break some big gains for some big scores.

Grades: OVR(B-),OFF(C+),DEF(B-)

Coach Comments: "We're going to keep this win streak going, someone's going to leave today 3-4 and it won't be us."

Injuries: None
WR Maurice Jones [78ovr] (SO) - Torn Bicep - 4 weeks




Record: 3-3

Last Game: vs ECU, L 37-42

Player Watch: LB Nick Bunting, This senior OLB is going to be a load to handle for the Tigers - if Pitts intends to break some big gains, he's going to have to stay away from the Senior captain of the Blue Hurricanes. Look for Bunting to make some key turnovers.
Grades: OVR(B-),OFF(C),DEF(B)

Coach Coments: "On paper, we look better, add the crowd in Memphis - we still look beter. They may be on some kind of streak, but it doesn't matter because we're going to win and look better doing it."

Injuries:
RG Rodrick Thomas [75ovr] (SO) - Broken Jaw - 3 Weeks
RG Wade Whitlow [75ovr] (JR) - Broken Collarbone - 3 Weeks

[Matt10]

Re: "Every Man a Tiger" - A University of Memphis Dynasty (NCAA 2007)

MOMENTUM SHIFTS
TULSA SCORE 28 POINTS IN FOURTH QUARTER TO COME BACK FROM BEHIND AND WIN IN MEMPHIS

Memphis, TN (AP) -- Leading 20-7 at the beginning of the fourth quarter is usually the time that most teams start to take it easy and run the ball into the ground, but not the Memphis Tigers - because they were literally unable to run. The Memphis Tigers hosted a tough Tulsa team, and came up just a couple of inches to the right of the goalpost from a victory Saturday afternoon.

It was a mixed day for Coach West and his men - at times it would appear the game was in the books, that all the gameplans were being executed just fine; but then everything would go from extreme satisfactory to extremely dissapointed. Some would say that Trey Adams missed 34 yard field goal was the reason the Memphis Tigers lost by a point - but the advanced college football fan would remember that with three-minutes and thirty seconds left in the third quarter, on 4th and 2 at the Blue Raiders' 17 yard line, the Memphis Tigers elected to perform a trick play instead of the conventional (not to mention wiser) field goal. Oh, but no, Coach West ordered a fake Field Goal pass - sure, it would seem harmless at the time, but those missed 3 points proved to be vital in sustaining a lead whatsoever for the home team.

"Yes, that was dumb," said Coach West, "I was playing off the momentum of the crowd and my boys - my gut said let's mix it up...my gut was wrong. It was just the wrong time to execute a play like that - I'll take full credit for that one."

Adams' critical miss at the end of the game may have overshadowed the fact that there were a total of 13 turnovers between the two teams, 4 fumbles lost by the Tigers and two interceptions. The Blue Raiders were not perfect either as they had 2 fumbles lost and a record 5 interceptions - one which was intercepted by a defensive end of the Tigers in Roderick Phillips.

Memphis ran the ball 37 times and only achieving 52 yards with no touchdowns. Coach West has assured the media and university that there will be "drastic changes" to the running back core next week.

"I'm so sick of talking about it," states West, "Enough is enough - this is getting really pathetic - I'm very embarrased for every running back. As a result, I'm throwing out my offensive running plays and will make up some as I go along this week at practice - I want to see who is actually paying attention."

On paper it seems that the Tiger running backs weren't trying - the fact of the matter is the Tulsa defense was absolutely superb in Saturday's game.

Within a span of 4 minutes, down 34-14, the Tulsa Blue Raiders achieved the quickest comeback this season to take the lead 35-34, with less than 30 seconds left for the Tigers to score.

Memphis' very own WR Duke Calhoun fumbled a punt return which sent Marchon Tatmon to return the ball 54 yards untouched into the endzone. On the next possession the Tulsa offense would do some work as backup QB David Johnson woul hook up with WR Ryan Bugg for 21 yards and a score, the last of the comeback siege would be from another fumble return this time by big man LE Chadd Evans after T.J. Pitts decided to cover the ball with one hand instead of two, Evans would return the ball a whopping 58 yards untouched into the endzone.

"We just made plays all day long," says captain and senior LB Nick Bunting, "There's no way we were going to lose this game and if we were - we wanted to make sure they felt ALOT of pain physically and emotionally."

Much like the pain that Memphis kicker Trey Adams is feeling right now. With less than 30 seconds left, after a long 40 yard drive by Hudgens hooking up with Mr. Out of No Where - WR Carlton Robinzine twice for 38 critical yards, Adams was left with about a 34 yard field goal.

The snap was good, the kick started straight but swereved off and away from the target, just missing by a couple of inches - sending the Tigers to 3-4 on the season and the Tulsa Blue Raiders prevailing to 4-3.

"It's the worst feeling you can have," reflects Trey Adams, "But I'll bounce back and you'll see a smile on my face, because the next time I'm interviewed - I would've kicked the game winner for the championship."



WEEK 8 - at Marshall (4-3)




_______________________________________
SCORING SUMMARY
Memphis 34, Tulsa 35
_______________________________________

1st Quarter:
FG Memphis 7-0, T.Adams 25 YD FG
TD Memphis 10-0, Hudgens to Singleton 30 YD TD REC (XP)
TD Memphis 17-0, McCrary 37 YD INT RET TD (XP)
TD Tulsa 17-7, Smith to Meyer 45 YD TD REC (XP)
2nd Quarter:
FG Memphis 20-7, T.Adams 37 YD FG
3rd Quarter:
TD Memphis 27-7, Hudgens to Pratcher 53 YD TD REC (XP)
4th Quarter:
TD Tulsa 27-14, Johnson to Bugg 44 YD TD REC (XP)
TD Memphis 34-14, Hudgens to Pratcher 62 YD TD REC (XP)
TD Tulsa 34-21, Tatmon 54 YD FUM RET TD (XP)
TD Tulsa 34-28, Johnson to Jackson 21 YD TD REC (XP)
TD Tulsa 34-35. Evans 58 YD FUM RET TD (XP)
_______________________________________
PLAYER STATS
_______________________________________

MEMPHIS:
Passing - *W.Hudgens: 18/38,335yds, 3 TD, 2 INT
Rushing - T.Pitts: 21rush,20yds (0.9 AVG)
Receiving - C.Singleton: 6 Rec 109yds,TD ---- M.Pratcher: 2 Rec 116yds, 2 TD
Defensive - B.Patterson: 4tak, TFL, SACK, INT

TULSA:
Passing - D.Johnson: 8/23,148yds, 2 TD, 2INT
Rushing - B.Diles: 11rush, 29yds
Receiving - R.Bugg: 5 Rec 94yds
Defensive - *C.Evans: 5tak, 2 TFL, 2 SACK, FR (58yd TD)




GAME REFLECTIONS

"Hey man, I don't get in the endzone all that often - you've gotta shine when youc can" - McCrary on his leap into the endzone.


"Well, the ball, you see, it came to me...and I caught it,clap!" - (Carlos Mencia "do da duh")



"There's no excuse for fumbling - I should've called the fair catch, damn adrenaline." - Duke Calhoun on learning to Fair catch the hard way.

2006 ESPN/USA Today Poll Top 10
ESPN/SportsTicker
Through Week 8

1.Ohio State (8-0) 1500pts
2.LSU (8-0) 1447pts
3.Tennessee (7-0) 1342pts
4.West Virginia (7-0) 1260pts
5.Texas (7-1) 1224pts
6.Florida State (7-0) 1188pts
7.Louisville (7-0) 1112pts
8.USC (5-1) 886pts
9.Miami (5-2) 793pts
10.Auburn (6-2) 734pts

2006 ESPN/USA Today Heisman Watch
ESPN/SportsTicker
Through Week 8

1.HB Selvin Young- TEXAS - 164rush,1146yds,13TD,17Rec,324yds,3 TDs -Week8: at Nebraska W(28-21 OT)
2.QB Drew Weatherford- Florida State - 144/228,1828yds,43rush,28 Total TD -Week8: vs Boston College W(21-17)
3.QB Jamarcus Russell- LSU - 119/199,1666yds,53rush,237yds,20 Total TDs-Week8: vs Fresno St. W(35-6)
4.QB Chris Todd- Texas Tech - 207/320,2617yds,22TD -Week8: vs Baylor W(38-21)
5.QB Colt McCoy- Texas - 117/193,1853yds,24TD -Week8: at Nebraska W(28-21 OT)

http://images.google.com/images?q=tb...a-logo-120.gif

C-USA (EAST) Conference Standings
Through Week 8

1. Marshall - (4-3) - @ UAB - W 35-19
2. Southern Miss - (3-4) - @#14 Virginia Tech - L 7-21
3. Memphis - (3-4) vs Tulsa - L 34-35
4. ECU - (3-4) vs SMU - L 14-41
5. UCF - (4-3) vs Rice - L 28-31
6. UAB - (2-6) vs Marshall - L 19-35

[Matt10]

Re: "Every Man a Tiger" - A University of Memphis Dynasty (NCAA 2007)

SIGNED
JAMES MCKINNEY COMMITS TO UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS

Memphis, TN (AP) -- Even though the Tigers lost at home against the Tulsa Blue Raiders this past weekend, good news has arrived in the form of Jonathan McKinney, who just signed his letter of intent to play for the University of Memphis next year.

"I'm happy with my decision," says the cornerback that was ranked 268th in the nation, "I've always followed the Tigers and it'll be a great feeling to wear the blue and white next year."

Head Coach Tommy West felt a sigh of relief when McKinney called him up a couple of hours after the lost to Tulsa.

"It was nice of him to do that," said West, "He knew I was probably feeling down and he wanted to brighten up my day, which he did - that shows something special in a person. I'm very pleased that he has chosen to be apart of this University, he won't ever regret it."

According to West it is too soon to tell whether or not McKinney will be the main Cornerback for the Tigers, although it does seem likely, "We are losing all our cornerbacks this year to graduation", says West, "It's going to be a rebuilding stage for us next year and yes the cornerback position starts with McKinney IF he stays consistent in the offseason."

McKinney is currently still undecided in a major when he arrives in Memphis next year. His parents are Jack and Rose with two sisters Latosha and Tyra.