The Memphis Tigers enter their November 7, 2025 matchup against Tulane with momentum, confidence, and control of their destiny in the American Athletic Conference. Head coach Ryan Silverfield has guided the Tigers to an impressive 8–1 record, transforming them into one of the most balanced and dangerous programs outside the Power Four. Memphis has been dominant at home this season, and Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium has once again become one of the most challenging venues for visiting teams, thanks to a high-octane offense, an opportunistic defense, and an electric home crowd. Offensively, Memphis has been one of the most efficient units in the nation, averaging nearly 38 points per game while maintaining exceptional balance between the pass and the run. Quarterback Seth Henigan continues to develop into one of the AAC’s premier signal-callers, combining poise, vision, and accuracy. Henigan’s chemistry with star wideout Roc Taylor has made the Tigers lethal in the passing game, while tight end Anthony Landphere and receiver DeMeer Blankumsee have added consistency and versatility to the receiving corps. On the ground, running backs Sutton Smith and Blake Watson form one of the most productive duos in the conference, combining power, vision, and speed to keep defenses honest. Against Tulane, Memphis will likely rely on this balanced approach to wear down the Green Wave’s disciplined defense—using quick strikes early to build a lead, then shifting to a ground-heavy attack to control the clock in the second half.

The offensive line, anchored by veterans like Xavier Hill and Davion Carter, has been dominant in both pass protection and run blocking, allowing Henigan time to make reads and the backs to find clean lanes. Defensively, the Tigers have quietly become one of the AAC’s most improved units, allowing just under 20 points per game and thriving in key situations. Linebacker Chandler Martin and defensive end Cormontae Hamilton have been cornerstones of a front seven that stops the run effectively and applies consistent pressure. Their ability to clog lanes and contain Tulane running back Makhi Hughes will be a major factor in controlling the game. Memphis’s secondary, led by cornerback Cameron Smith and safety Simeon Blair, will focus on limiting deep shots and forcing Tulane quarterback Kai Horton into underneath throws where the Tigers’ linebackers can swarm. Expect defensive coordinator Matt Barnes to dial up creative blitzes to disrupt Horton’s timing and prevent Tulane from sustaining long drives. The Tigers’ defensive discipline and speed give them a distinct advantage against Tulane’s slower-paced offense, which thrives on efficiency rather than explosiveness. Special teams could also play an influential role—kicker Seth Morgan has been nearly automatic from within 45 yards, while return man Joe Scates remains a threat to flip field position in an instant. From a betting perspective, Memphis has been one of the country’s most reliable teams against the spread this season, covering in nearly 88% of its games. That trend speaks to their ability to not only win but dominate opponents, especially at home where they’ve consistently built early leads and maintained control. For Memphis to secure another statement victory, they’ll need to stay focused, avoid self-inflicted mistakes, and prevent Tulane from turning the game into a defensive slugfest. If Henigan and the offense execute with their usual efficiency, and the defense continues to limit big plays, Memphis should handle business comfortably. The Tigers’ superior depth, home-field confidence, and overall balance make them the clear favorite in this matchup, and a win here would further solidify their standing as one of the AAC’s elite programs, potentially propelling them into serious consideration for a New Year’s Six bowl. Expect Memphis to play with purpose, precision, and the poise of a team that believes it can contend for more than just a conference title.