Memphis Finishes Temple On Road For 9th Win
The Memphis Tigers closed out the regular season with a resounding 45-21 victory over Temple, marking a significant milestone in the program’s history. It was their fifth road win, making them only the fourth team in school history to achieve this feat, and their ninth win overall – a statistic only matched by nine other teams in the program’s history.
The game was a testament to the Tigers’ overall strength this season and a showcase of individual performances that have contributed to the team’s success.
QUARTERBACK CORNER
The heroics of junior quarterback Seth Henigan were on full display as he completed 18-of-28 passes for 250 yards and four touchdowns. Henigan’s performance elevated him to the program’s all-time leader in career completions with 814. His 54-yard touchdown pass to Joseph Scates in the first play of the game set the tone for what was to come. Henigan’s leadership and expertise have been instrumental in steering the offensive arm of the Tigers throughout the season.
RUSHING TO VICTORY
Running back Blake Watson also made his mark, rushing 15 times for 95 yards and a score while also reeling in four catches for 39 yards and another score. Watson joined the exclusive club of Tigers to rush for 1,000 or more yards in a season, becoming the eighth member of this elite group. His versatility as a runner and receiver made him a dual threat difficult for Temple to contain.
Brandon Thomas also had a strong showing, with nine carries for a season-high 76 yards and a touchdown. Thomas’s consistency throughout the season has provided the Tigers with a reliable ground game, complementing Henigan’s aerial assault.
DEFENSIVE IMPACT
On the defensive end, Chandler Martin had an impactful game with five tackles, an interception, and two pass breakups. Martin’s interception just before halftime was a turning point, setting up a seven-play, 98-yard drive that was capped off by Henigan’s third touchdown pass of the half.
Geoffrey Cantin-Arku and Greg Rubin anchored the defense with seven tackles each, demonstrating the depth of the Tigers’ defensive unit. Their efforts helped Memphis maintain its aggressive defensive posture all season, pressuring opponents and creating opportunities for turnovers.
SCORING STREAK
Memphis extended its NCAA-leading streak of consecutive games with 20 or more points to 26 in the win. Over that stretch, the Tigers have averaged 37.2 points a contest. This scoring streak is a testament to the team’s potent offense, which has consistently broken through opposing defenses and put points on the board.
LOOKING AHEAD
With the regular season now wrapped up, the Tigers will now await their bowl fate, which will be announced on Sunday, Dec. 3. Regardless of the outcome, this season represents a significant step forward for the program. It has been a season of achievements for the team and individual players. The Tigers have shown resilience, talent, and a commitment to excellence, allowing them to overcome challenges and achieve success.
CLOSING THOUGHTS
The outstanding performances of key players like Seth Henigan, Blake Watson, and Brandon Thomas have been instrumental in the team’s success this season. Their individual achievements are a testament to their skill and dedication, as well as to the strength of the team as a whole.
At the same time, the Tigers’ defensive prowess, as demonstrated by players like Chandler Martin, Geoffrey Cantin-Arku, and Greg Rubin, has been a crucial factor in the team’s success. Their ability to force turnovers and disrupt opposing offenses has given the Tigers an edge in many close games.
The Memphis Tigers have shown that they are a team to be reckoned with, and their performance this season is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and talent. As they look ahead to their bowl game, they can be proud of what they have accomplished so far – and eager for what is still to come.
