Memphis vs Tulane Prediction, Preview, Betting Lines: Green Wave's CFP Hopes

Originally posted on College Football News
By Pete Fiutak | Last updated Nov 25, 2024 2:44 PM ET

This game does and doesn’t matter for Tulane. (All forgiveness for that horrible opening line.)

It doesn’t matter because it’s already in the AAC Championship vs Army next week. It wouldn’t be crazy to rest everyone for that, but this really does matter.

It’s about optics now. Beat Memphis convincingly, blowout Army, go 11-2, and then hope Boise State biffs somewhere so the CFP committee will like the Green Wave more. There are all sorts of playoff possibilities, but it starts with Tulane looking great.

Memphis was supposed to be more in the AAC hunt, but a loss to UTSA a few weeks ago ended that. It’s bowl eligible, and now it’s looking to play the spoiler role.

Memphis vs Tulane: How to Watch and Game Preview

Date: Thursday, November 28, 2024
Game Time: 7:30 pm ET
How To Watch: ESPN
Venue: Yulman Stadium, New Orleans, LA
Teams: Tulane (9-2), Memphis (9-2)
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Why Memphis Will Win

The Tiger running game is rolling.

It hit the 200-yard mark in four of the last five games, and the passing game has been along for the ride to balance things out.

The team has a great combination of flashy runs on one side, and lots of takeaways on the other. The Tigers have forced multiple turnovers seven times this season, and …

Why Tulane Will Win

Tulane doesn’t make mistakes.

It has just three turnovers over the last eight games and penalties aren’t a big issue - the team won’t beat itself. And yes, Memphis forces a ton of takeaways with 21 on the year. Tulane has forced 20.

And yes, Memphis has a great running game. Tulane’s yes even better getting close to 200 yards or more in seven of the last eight games. And …

Memphis vs Tulane: Who Will Win?

Memphis is fantastic in the time of possession battle. It’s seventh in the nation, wonderful at controlling the clock, and …

Tulane is better at that, too. No. 1 in all of college football in time of possession, the Green Wave will be just a little bit stronger at controlling the narrative at home.