Memphis Football -Four Questions For 2023
As the 2023 season for Memphis Football beckons, there are several uncertainties looming over the team. Four of the most crucial questions facing the Memphis Tigers are the team’s wide receiver weapon, the state of the offensive line, the prospect of a 1,000-yard rusher, and the performance of head coach Ryan Silverfield.
Who Will Be The Wide Receiver Weapon?
The first question is deciding who will emerge as the season’s wide receiver weapon. The Tigers are confronted with the task of filling in the void left by their top receivers from the previous season. However, hope is not lost. The team has brought in Demeer Blankumsee from Toledo and Tauskie Dove from Missouri. With experienced returners like Roc Taylor, Joseph Scates, and Colby Drake, the team has the potential to be one of the most talented groups in Memphis’ recent history. Yet, it remains to be seen who among these players will step up and become the go-to option.
Is This The Season The O-Line Gets Fixed?
The second major question pertains to the offensive line, a unit that has faced its share of criticism in recent seasons. The promotion of Silverfield from OL coach to head coach seems to have impacted the unit’s performance. However, the introduction of Jeff Myers, the new OL coach from Iowa State, might be the change needed to turn things around. The line boasts players like Makylan Pounders, Jonah Gambill, Jacob Likes, and Davion Carter, who all have the potential to solidify the line. The question is whether or not they can rise to the occasion and solidify the offensive line.
Can Memphis Have A 1,000 Rusher?
The third question relates to the running back position and whether or not the Tigers will have a 1,000-yard rusher this season. Since 2019, the team has been operating with a running back by committee, which has not proven as productive as desired. Last year, Jay Ducker rushed for 544 yards, but there’s uncertainty about whether he or any other candidate – such as Blake Watson, Brandon Thomas, Sutton Smith, or the transfer from Mississippi State, Ke’travion Hargrove – can reach the coveted 1,000-yard mark.
Can Memphis Win Close Games?
The final pivotal question is about Head Coach Ryan Silverfield’s performance. Since his second season, Silverfield has been the subject of criticism due to losses in close games. Last year, the team lost four games by just seven points or less. In 2021, the story was the same. This repeated pattern has raised questions about the coach’s ability to lead the team to victory in tight games. For the Tigers to compete for the AAC Championship, they need to find a way to turn these close losses into wins.
In conclusion, the Memphis Tigers are faced with several challenges as they head into the 2023 season. The team needs to identify their star wide receiver, fix their offensive line, find a 1,000-yard rusher, and overcome close losses. How they answer these questions will largely determine the team’s success this season.
