| Box Score | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | Final |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Memphis | 14 | 14 | 17 | 13 | 58 |
| Syracuse | 10 | 0 | 7 | 7 | 24 |
Lynch, Hayden lead offensive explosion against Syracuse in 58-24 Independence Bowl win
SHREVEPORT -- With QB Paxton Lynch 100% healthy after a 21 day layoff, the Tigers offense took off like a jet, posting season highs in points (58) and total offense (606 yards) in what was arguably the biggest game of the season. Lynch was spectacular throughout, accounting for 477 yards and 5 scores, with 144 yards and 3 scores going to junior WR Jarod Hayden. That, along with his 10 catches, gives Hayden the school's record for receptions and yards in a single season.
The win gives the Tigers their first bowl victory since 2005 and their first 9 win season since 2003.
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INJURIES
DT James Sanders (Broken elbow)
OLB Kyle Carter (Dislocated elbow)
Players of the Game
Memphis
Paxton Lynch
, QB
| Game Statistics | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Memphis | Syracuse |
| First Downs | 30 | 12 |
| Total Offense | 606 | 327 |
| Rushes-YDS | 31-214 | 10-37 |
| Passing YDS | 392 | 290 |
| Turnovers | 3 | 4 |
| Total Yards | 633 | 429 |
| T.O.P. | 23:32 | 08:28 |