Memphis Looks to Extend Historic Win Streak Against Tulsa

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Memphis Tigers are gearing up to extend their longest winning streak in program history as they prepare to face off against the Tulsa Golden Hurricane on Saturday. Currently riding a nine-game win streak, Memphis aims to continue their dominance behind a powerful running game.

Both teams are familiar foes, having faced each other numerous times since the 1960s. Last season, Memphis secured a crucial win against Tulsa, which had a memorable overtime victory over Oklahoma State earlier this season.

Memphis, now 5-0, achieved their best start since 2019 with a convincing 55-26 victory over Florida Atlantic in their last outing. Running back Greg Desrosiers Jr. was outstanding, earning the Doak Walker National Running Back of the Week award for his 204-yard, three-touchdown performance.

Head coach Ryan Silverfield, now in his sixth year, has led the Tigers to impressive back-to-back wins, with the team also ranking 11th nationally in rushing yards per game with an average of 6.0 yards per carry. The combination of running backs Desrosiers Jr. and Sutton Smith has given Memphis a formidable ground game.

On the other hand, Tulsa aims to shake off last week’s loss in their conference opener. Under first-year head coach Tre Lamb, the Golden Hurricane (2-3) stunned college football by defeating Oklahoma State but struggled against Tulane, losing 17-14 in their most recent game.

The team will have to make a crucial decision regarding their starting quarterback this week. Kirk Francis, the original starter, is recovering from a concussion, while backup Baylor Hayes has been in the lineup since. Both players will be evaluated before Saturday’s game.

Defensively, Memphis has shown promise, allowing only 18 points per game. Key players like linebacker Everett Roussaw Jr. and defensive end William Whitlow Jr. will be pivotal in containing Tulsa’s run game, which has shown improvement this season.

The game is expected to draw a large home crowd at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium, bolstering Memphis’ efforts as they pursue a College Football Playoff spot with their electrifying offense and staunch defense. Memphis is determined to keep their winning streak alive this Saturday against Tulsa.