Memphis Football: 2022 Way-Too-Early Game Predictions

Memphis defensive back Quindell Johnson celebrates a tackle on a kick return against Tulane during their game at the Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019.W 20220
Memphis defensive back Quindell Johnson celebrates a tackle on a kick return against Tulane during their game at the Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019.W 20220 /
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Memphis football defensive lineman Maurice White attempts to tackle Houston Cougars running back Alton McCaskill
Nov 19, 2021; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Cougars running back Alton McCaskill (22) rushes against Memphis Tigers defensive lineman Maurice White (4) in the second quarter at TDECU Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports /

Rod Carey’s Temple experience went from decent to hopeless. The Owls were 3-9 in 2021 and ranked at the bottom of both points scored and points allowed.

There really is nobody who can play at a high level for Temple. Former Georgia QB D’Wan Mathis is here, and that’s about the best one can say about his play in 2021.

Memphis rolls.

Final score: Memphis 49, Temple 13 (Memphis 4-1, 2-0 in AAC)

Houston completed their rebuild in 2021, going 12-2 and appearing in the conference title game. Indeed, Dana Holgorsen has done exactly what people expected of him when he took the job.

That team had devastating offensive weapons, including quarterback Clayton Tune and wideout Nathaniel Dell. Both are back, but significant losses on defense are major stumbling points. All-American cornerback Marcus Jones is gone, as are first-team All-AAC defensive linemen Logan Hall and David Anenih.

Houston should have the ability to run all over Memphis’ defense. Memphis could return the favor but will fall short in this Friday night contest.

Final score: Houston 44, Memphis 37 (Memphis 4-2, 2-1 in AAC)