Four bold predictions for Memphis football entering the 2022 season
Few could've expected Memphis football to stumble last season. But nothing brightens the mood than a new season and a fresh start.
The Tigers should improve despite being predicted to finish fifth in the AAC preseason media poll. Yet why stop there? Let's get bold to see what goals the team can reasonably reach.
Here are four things we think will happen this season as the Tigers kick off Saturday at Mississippi State (6:30 p.m., ESPNU)
Seth Henigan will throw for at least 3,600 yards and 32 touchdowns
The last four Memphis quarterbacks who returned for an additional year all posted better stats in their second seasons. So why should Henigan be any different?
The 19-year-old sophomore threw for 3,322 yards and 25 touchdowns last season. He knows the offense better this season and he’ll be asked to do more with it until the Tigers find consistent receiving options or develop a stronger run game.
Regardless of how the Tigers do this season, Henigan’s numbers should take a jump after his Freshman All-American season. He won’t reach 4,000 yards, but 3,600 to 3,700 yards will be within reach.
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The defense will record at least 20 takeaways
Memphis had just 15 takeaways last season, its fewest since 13 in 2010. Expect defensive coordinator Matt Barnes to focus on raising that number.
Ohio State had 18 takeaways in the 11 games Barnes served as defensive play-caller last season. Memphis plans to be more aggressive this year, and it should create more takeaway opportunities.
Twenty takeaways in 12 or 13 games isn’t unreasonable. It would show fans the Tigers’ defense has improved and motivate a veteran unit to chase for greater goals under Barnes.
Transfers will make a positive impact
It’s not a good sign when Memphis’ best transfer last season was punter Joe Doyle, who also handled kicking duties. But expect the transfer portal to produce more cheers this season.
Running back Jeyvon Ducker (Northern Illinois) and linebacker Tyler Murray (Charlotte) could be key contributors after standing out at their last stops. Wide receiver Joseph Scates (Iowa State) could add another vertical threat to the passing game and kicker Chris Howard (Florida) earned the starting job.
Who wouldn’t mind some transfer treasure after injuries affected last year’s newcomers? Memphis, that’s who.
Memphis will have another 1,000-yard receiver, but barely
Until the Memphis run game proves otherwise, it’s safe to expect a third consecutive season without a 1,000-yard rusher. The Tigers’ seven-year streak of producing a 1,000-yard receiver, however, could be in jeopardy.
With Calvin Austin III drafted into the NFL, the Tigers don’t have a clear top target yet. Going receiver-by-committee will lead to more players having quality seasons, but someone will eventually need to take the lead.
That said, if it happens, someone will reach 1,000 yards in the Tigers’ final game. Javon Ivory is the betting favorite, though it won’t surprise if in lieu of one 1,000-yard receiver, the Tigers end up with several with more than 700 yards.
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You can reach Evan Barnes on Twitter (@Evan_B) or by email at evan.barnes@commercialappeal.com
This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Four bold predictions for Memphis football entering 2022 season
