Memphis, TN – The Memphis Tigers (10-3) raced off to a 19-point lead in the first period to vanquish the Iowa State Cyclones (7-6) in the 64th AutoZone Liberty Bowl, 36-26. Most impressively in front of an announced crowd of 48,789, the Tigers achieved a rarity. Coach Ryan Silverfield’s charges played the game without a penalty. After watching so many nauseating, flag-filled bowl games on television this season, this was a pleasure and an unbelievable accomplishment in this day and age.
The Tigers roared out to a commanding lead. With 3:24 left in the first, they led 19-0. On their first three possessions, QB Seth Henigan connected with WR Demeer Blankumsee in mid-stride on a 70-yard streak down the middle, capped a nine-play scoring drive with an 11-yard TD run, and tossed a 51-yard TD to WR Joseph Scates, an Iowa State transfer, to break ahead quickly. Tanner Gillis missed the first extra point, and a two-point conversion after the third score failed.
“Great seat, hey buddy!”
My seat selection in section 109, row 38 really paid off in the first half. With the change in quarter two, Iowa State mounted a comeback scoring three times. All scores thus far appeared directly in front of me. ISU Cyclone QB Rocco Becht hit WR Jayden Higgins close to the left pylon on a 29-yard TD reception. The next two scores came on Chase Contreraz field goals of 22 and 39 yards, the second with :35 left in the period. Not to be outdone, from the 25, Memphis went into a victory formation to seemingly run out the clock. Instead, RB Blake Watson (107 yards on 15 carries) took a pitch and swept around left end for a 21-yard pick-up. Henigan connected with Roc Taylor (102 yards, eight catches) for 17 yards and Blankumsee once again for seven. Gillis nailed a 49-yard FG as time expired to end the half for a 22-13 Memphis lead.
“Give me Liberty (Bowl)!”
Both marching bands appeared for halftime festivities. Following them, the Barkays, the Memphis-based Rhythm and Blues group known for their 1967 hit, “Soul Finger’’ performed. It was a fun halftime celebration. The Liberty Bowl puts on a good show. Last season, the game was one of the best of the 2022 season. My friend Rick Selak and I attended the 53-52 Arkansas double OT win over up-and-coming Kansas. Today, parking worked out great! I found a convenient space available in a commercial industrial lot right across the street from Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium.
Seeing opt-outs and transfer portals impact many bowl games from a negative perspective this season, this game did not disappoint. I may focus only on attending CFP games in the future, but I would consider still going to this game based on recent experiences.
Memphis Tigers back on the prowl
To start the third, Memphis halted Iowa State for a three and out and started from the 35. Watson exploded for a 55-yard run to ISU’s five. There Hennigan tossed a five-yard TD pass to TE Anthony Landphere. The Tigers forced another Cyclone punt, and started at the 50. Wasting no time, a short pass to RB Sutton Smith resulted with him going down the left side for a 48-yard touchdown to lead 36-13. The Cyclones fought back after Becht got sacked by DT Willian Whitlow on his ten-yard line. On third and 26, a 35-yard pass to Carson Hansen gave the Cyclone’s a first down. It led to a 15-yard scoring pass to TE Easton Dean. At the end of three, ISU showed some life training 36-20.
Memphis drove into the fourth. However, they came up empty here with a missed FG from 31 that probably would have sealed the victory at that point. In response, ISU started a touchdown drive from their 20. On a key play, Becht (22 of 38 for 466 yards and three TDs) hooked up with Ben Ngoyi for 46 yards to the Memphis 23. Two plays later, Becht connected with Jaylin Noel for a scoring pass. A two-point conversion fell, incomplete. Iowa State trailed Memphis 36-26 with 9:55 left to play.
Tigers wear down their prey
Seemed like the Cyclones could still threaten if they could stop Memphis quickly on the next series. Starting from their 20 however, over the next nine minutes and 13 seconds, Memphis converted five first downs. The Tigers showed patience. ISU spent their three time-outs after 2:37 remained. Though the Cyclones kept the Tigers out to the end zone, they could only take over on downs at their four with 42 seconds remaining. Memphis ran out the clock to win holding on to the ball for over nine minutes. That strategy, no turnovers, and no penalties can be attributed to the preparation of the very good Memphis coaching staff.
Next! Back to Memphis
The Tigers look to return a strong contingent of starters for next season including their starting QB Seth Henigan. The junior took home the MVP award with 364 passing yards, four touchdown passes and one on the ground. Here’ another tribute to this coaching staff. In recruiting prowess, Memphis was the top-rated non-Power Five school, ranked 49th overall last season in recruiting. Look for them to have another great season in 2024. They will definitely be worth watching again next season.
We at CollegeFootballfan.com wrap up our 2023 season the next day when we attend the Transperfect Music City Bowl between Maryland and Auburn.
