SMU has won just one game, and they have shown no interest in winning for their lame duck coach. Memphis will probably go to a bowl with a big win, so lay the points.
Last year, the SMU Mustangs program seemed to be on the verge of finally turning the corner towards respectability.
[articleBanner]who2beton[/articleBanner]The Mustangs finished 6-6 in 2006, and freshman quarterback Justin Willis looked to be a star in the making, with a 26-6 touchdown to interception ratio in his first year as the starter, finishing second in high octane Conference USA in pass efficiency. However, things went wrong for SMU from Day 1 this year, as they were blown out on national TV in their opener against Texas Tech. Since that time, SMU has managed only one victory, at home against lowly North Texas. Head coach Phil Bennett was fired midseason, but still allowed to finish the campaign.
Bennett’s team showed no passion playing for their lame duck head coach, as even their home finale against Central Florida last week turned into an ugly rout, a 49-20 defeat. Willis has thrown 16 picks in 2007, in sharp contrast to his six interceptions last year. Also, the Mustangs defense has been downright awful, as they’ve allowed 38 points or more four times in their last five games. This is a horrible team that can’t wait for the season to be over, not the type of squad that we would expect to show up at all in their meaningless season finale.
Meanwhile, Memphis started off the season in similarly dismal fashion, going just 2-4 through their first six games. The Tigers have come on strong down the stretch however, winning four of their last five, thanks to a prolific passing attack led by senior QB Martin Hankins and a running game that netted 265 net rushing yards last week, led by senior running back Joseph Doss. A win here and the Tigers are likely to go bowling!
The Tigers have the motivation and the talent to destroy this hapless foe, so look for them to close out their regular season with a resounding victory.
Free Pick: Memphis -7½