Memphis had one of the nation’s most prolific offenses in 2017. The Tigers ranked second nationally in scoring (45.5 ppg), fourth in total offense (532.1 ypg) and sixth in pass efficiency (160.15). Running back Darrell Henderson was a preseason All- America choice of Sporting News after he rushed for 1,154 yards and nine touchdowns last year, while fellow running back Patrck Taylor rushed for a team-high 13 touchdowns with 866 yards, and running back Tony Pollard had two rushing TDs and averaged 7.7 yards per carry. The Tigers have four returning starters on the offensive line, including first-team all-conference offensive tackle Trevon Tate.

Memphis’ veteran defense includes eight returning starters from last season. Cornerback T.J. Carter was the 2017 American Athletic Conference Rookie of the Year after he set a team freshman record with five interceptions to go with 11 pass breakups last season. Linebackers Curtis Akins (88) and Austin Hall (84) finished first and second on the team in tackles last year, with Hall adding three interceptions. The defensive line is led by defensive tackle O’Bryan Goodson, who made nine starts as a true freshman last season.

Memphis won 10 regular-season games for the first time since 1938. The Tigers are a combined 37-15 since the 2014 season. Memphis has played in a bowl game in four straight seasons. The Tigers are looking for five straight postseason appearances for the first time in program history. The Tigers went 10-1 in the regular season last year and won The American’s West Division title with a 7-1 league mark.