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Gray Avenger · 06-06-2013 12:34 PM

http://espn.go.com/blog/bigeast

"Weak and strong: Memphis
June, 6, 2013

Strongest position: Defensive line

Could have gone with punter here, as Tom Hornsey has an opportunity to be a first-team all-league league punter in this conference. Running back also is a strength considering both leading rushers from a year ago return, and Brandon Hayes and Jai Steib are expected to be better this season. But I decided to go with the defensive front, where every starter returns from a year ago. Looking at Phil Steele's early all-conference team list, it says plenty that tackle Johnnie Farms is listed on the first team and Martin Ifedi is featured on the second team. This is the only position with multiple Tigers players honored. Ifedi led the team with 7.5 sacks and 11 tackles for loss last season, while Farms ranked second with 9.5 tackles for loss. Can't forget about Terry Redden, who split time with Farms last season and finished with 6.5 tackles for loss. Memphis made major strides last year in total defense, rushing defense and sacks, but the challenge is on for this group now that it has to move on to a better conference.

Weakest position: Secondary

Memphis does return Bobby McCain, whom coach Justin Fuente said has had an "awesome offseason." Safety Lonnie Ballentine, who had 66 tackles and three interceptions last year, also returns. But the Tigers have to replace two starters and their top reserve as they try and make improvements to a group that has had its fair share of struggles over the last several years. The starting cornerback job opposite McCain remains up in the air, and safety is another question mark beyond Ballentine In 2012, Memphis only had eight interceptions and ranked No. 78 against the pass. This is a group that is still pretty young. Ballentine is the only senior listed at cornerback and safety on the team's spring prospectus.

For more in the series,..........."

WeSingWithLove · 06-06-2013 01:04 PM

Thanks

UofMTigerFan · 06-06-2013 01:35 PM

I think the secondary will be better than people think. My concern would be with the speed of the linebacking core.

biguofmfan · 06-06-2013 04:54 PM

(06-06-2013 01:35 PM)UofMTigerFan Wrote: I think the secondary will be better than people think. My concern would be with the speed of the linebacking core.

I agree. Also, the effectiveness of the defensive line will make their job in the secondary a lot easier.

tigergeorge55 · 06-07-2013 02:18 AM

The linebackers will be fine with the addition of Kewan Alfred, Ryan Coleman, Raymone Wiggins. Tank Jakes played his position well and Derek Howard, Wynton McManus are returning.

Unionman76 · 06-07-2013 06:18 AM

with the recruits
the secondary has become "super" fast

now if they can adjust to the college level

MemphisTigersFootball · 06-07-2013 06:43 AM

(06-07-2013 02:18 AM)tigergeorge55 Wrote: The linebackers will be fine with the addition of Kewan Alfred, Ryan Coleman, Raymone Wiggins. Tank Jakes played his position well and Derek Howard, Wynton McManus are returning.

That # 49 is a good player too! 03-shhhh

tmoneyinmphs · 06-07-2013 07:51 AM

Memphis does return Bobby McCain, whom coach Justin Fuente said has had an "awesome offseason."

I'm so ready to watch this kid have a breakout season and also return a kickoff back for a touchdown AT HOME THIS YEAR ! Something is just telling me he will end the 17 year drought.

mewes · 06-07-2013 09:23 PM

I think the teams biggest weakness is at offensive line and wide receiver. If those two positions exceed expectations you might be looking at a bowl.

UofMTigerFan · 06-08-2013 01:45 AM

Let's be realistic and simply enjoy a better product on the field. We have better players and a great staff. This year very well could have the same record or worse and still be a much better team.

We still need butts in the seats and a enthusiastic base. We are getting better quick but a bowl is still likely a couple of years away.

We still need some beef upfront and a bit more speed at linebacker. Running back is deeper but we still need a back with great vision. I expect out WR core to really produce.

Special teams could be the difference this year for us. The play well and we can equal or exceed last years win total. Regardless corn dogs will be great. Beer will be cold and the Tigers will be competitive. Absolutely can't wait!

Nobody4Prez · 06-08-2013 08:37 AM

6-7 wins is a realistic Goal

Good season is 5'wins in a better conference

4 wins would be a slight disappointment just from a perception standpoint.

I hope we can pull out 5-6 to show steady improvement going into yr 3 for the staff.

pdlglm · 06-08-2013 08:51 AM

Tiger fb will go bowling this season.

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