Memphis Tigers Football: 2015 Season Preview

Nov 29, 2014; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Tigers quarterback Paxton Lynch (12) runs with the ball against the Connecticut Huskies during the game at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports

Offensive Breakdown

Here is the good news. Memphis averaged more than 36 points a game last year and returns eight starters on offense, starting with Paxton Lynch at quarterback.

Lynch is already a freakish size at 6’7″ 230 pounds, and last year he threw for 3,031 yards, 22 touchdowns, and only nine interceptions while completing 62.7 percent of his passes. After his four-touchdown 400-plus yard bowl game against BYU, Lynch should be expected to take on a heavier role this year.

Part of the reason Lynch will have a bigger role is the loss of running back Brandon Hayes. Lynch was the second leading rusher on the team. Jarvis Cooper and Doroland Dorceus both saw action last year, averaging right at five yards a carry, so they should be able to fill that hole.

Leading receiver Keiwon Malone is also gone, but that can only mean more receptions for Mose Frazier and more action for Tevin Jones and Alan Cross.

On the offensive line, All-AAC Tackle Al Bond is a huge loss, but all four other starters are returning. There are four other guys on the roster outside of the four starters that also have starting experience, so somebody should be able to step up and replace Bond.

Clutch-kicker Jake Elliott, who was nearly perfect inside 40 yards but very inconsistent beyond 40 yards despite the leg strength to make multiple kicks beyond 50 yards is also back. With a little more consistency, Elliott could be one of the best in the game. And that would be a huge advantage for the Tigers.

Overall, the offense should be a little bit better this year with even more of a focus on Lynch and the passing game than last year.

Next: Defensive Outlook