Memphis Football: 2022 season preview and predictions for Tigers
By Kathryn Rose
Memphis football defense
The defense needs improvement from 2021, but there’s hope for the unit in 2022.
The defensive line has three seniors in the unit, which is led by edge player Jaylon Allen, who recorded 7.5 tackles for loss and five sacks in 2021. Wardalis Buckworth is no slouch himself at the other end position, tallying 34 tackles and four sacks.
At defensive tackle, it’s a relatively quiet unit, with Zy Brockington and Maurice White on the inside. White is the better of the two, as he sacked the quarterback 3.5 times in 2021.
Memphis runs a 4-2-5 scheme, so there are two linebackers. Mike linebacker Xavier Cullens is joined by Syracuse transfer Geoff Cantin-Arku. Both are big-time playmakers and should make a solid pairing.
The five defensive backs are anchored by cornerback Greg Rubin. A redshirt sophomore, Rubin had 58 tackles and 14 pass deflections in 2021 and should be the leading defensive back in 2022. Joining him at the other corner spot is Sylvonta Oliver, who defended three passes in 2021.
Safeties are a relatively experienced group, and here’s where the top two tacklers in 2021 lay. Quindell Johnson had 104 tackles last year, and Rodney Owens put in 78 himself. The two combined for 16 pass deflections, and find themselves in the backfield often.
Finally, Ladarian Paulk will be seeing his first real action at nickelback.