2023 Week 1

Oliver Prudence first game as head coach didn't go very good. It was rather bad, actually. It was raining in Knoxville, and that seemed to bother the Tigers. Tennessee's top rated (99 ovr) quarterback Mike Burnsides, had three touchdowns just in the first half. On back to back possessions, Burnside threw long touchdowns (53 and 64 yards), and throughout the game the Volunteer's offense did what it pleased. For Memphis, turnovers were an issue. They had 3 turnovers (2 fumbles and an interception), but could have had more as they recovered 4 of their own fumbles. As well, quarterbacks Gordon Clark and Alex Bonnett struggled with their accuracy. Bonnett got the team closest to scoring on a 6 minute drive, until he had to leave with a hurt chest. Clark came in and on 4th and 1 failed to hit a wide open receiver in the end zone. The bright spot was receiver Keron Jefferson who had 5 receptions for 89 yards, though he did lose a fumble on his largest reception (32 yards). Defensively, linebackers Clint Washington and David Smith led the team in tackles with 4 and 3 respectively. Smith added an interception. Next week, the Tigers host the 17th ranked Rice Owls.

Final Score: Memphis 0, Tennessee 31
Player of Game: David Smith ROLB, SR, 3 tackles, 1 tfl, 1 int

Coach Prudence's comments: "Not exactly a great way to start a head coaching career, but I'll be remembering this one for a long time. We have a lot to work on this week, and God willing we can score some points."

"Tennessee's a great football team, and today we weren't. We were poop. Blue and white poop. We'll pick up next week and hope for some better weather and some better results. Maybe even have a defense show up. I know, that's too crazy to even imagine after today's performance."