Alright, so I decided it was time to really dig into the Memphis Tigers depth chart. It’s something I try to do pretty regularly, especially before a big game or at the start of the season. It just helps me get my head straight about who’s who and what the team looks like.
First thing, I went looking for the latest version. You know how it is, sometimes the official site is updated, sometimes you gotta check out what the beat writers are saying or piece things together from practice reports. It’s not always handed to you on a silver platter.
Once I felt I had something reasonably current, I just started going through it, position by position. I always begin with the offense.
Offense Breakdown
- Quarterback: Obvious place to start. Checked who was listed as QB1. Then looked at the backup, QB2, maybe even QB3. Gotta know who’s taking the snaps and who’s next in line if something happens.
- Running Backs: Scanned the list here. Saw the main guy, then looked at the rotation. Who’s the power back? Who’s the speed guy? Memphis usually has a couple of decent runners.
- Wide Receivers/Tight Ends: This usually takes a bit longer. Looked for the starters, the Z, the X, the slot guy. Checked the tight end situation too. Tried to recognize names from last year and spot any new impact players, maybe transfers or freshmen making noise.
- Offensive Line: Spent a good chunk of time here. Left tackle to right tackle. Who are the starters? Are they experienced guys? Any weak spots apparent just based on names or lack of returning starters? This is super important, even if it’s not flashy.
Defense and Special Teams
Then I flipped over to the defense. Did the same kind of walkthrough.
- Defensive Line: Looked at the ends and the tackles. Who are the starters expected to get pressure or stop the run? Depth is key here too.
- Linebackers: Checked out the MIKE, WILL, SAM, or however they structure it. Looked for the leaders, the tacklers.
- Secondary: Corners and safeties. Who’s locking down receivers? Who’s patrolling the back end? Experience matters a lot back there.
- Special Teams: Didn’t forget these guys. Checked the kicker, punter, and return specialists. Sometimes a good returner can really change a game.
Making Sense of It All
After going through the whole list, I started putting it together in my head. Okay, looks like they’re strong here, maybe a little inexperienced there. It helps me form expectations for the games. It’s not perfect science, coaches change things up, injuries happen, but it gives a baseline.
You know, doing this kind of thing, really looking at the names and the structure, it makes watching the games way better for me. It’s not just a bunch of blue jerseys running around. I feel like I have a better sense of the team’s makeup, the challenges they might face. It’s just part of how I follow the team. Takes a bit of time, but I find it worthwhile to get that snapshot.
