Following the first heartbreaking loss of the season, Memphis found their way back to the Amway Coaches Poll ranking at No. 25. The Tigers responded to the overturned call that cost them a win last week by blowing away Tulane 47-17. The Tigers' performance was a major statement to the American Athletic Conference, referees, fans, and any future opponents they will face this season. It was also the Tigers' sixth win, making them bowl eligible for the sixth straight season. Even though Tigers’ responded to adversity with a massive win over a conference opponent, the biggest story came from two important Tigers: Brady White and Kenny Gainwell. Memphis QB Brady White possibly had one of his best games ever as a Tiger. After the embarrassing first half against the Temple Owls, White responded to his doubters by ending the game with five touchdowns and 358 yards. White also threw for 21 of 29 passes. This Brady White that was seen against Tulane came as a much-improved version from last week’s game where he completed 28 of 43 passes, had two touchdowns,1 interception, and 2 fumbles. Despite Brady White’s performance, the biggest story of the night was RB Kenny Gainwell. Not only did Gainwell break the University of Memphis record of over 100 yards receiving and over 100 yards rushing, but Gainwell was the first player since 1997 to rush over 100 yards and receive over 200 yards. It wouldn’t be surprising to see Gainwell’s name in the Heisman conversation in the future. "I'm just blessed to come to work every day. I just try to make sure every day I come to practice, I do what I have to do and whatever happens, happens."
Ever since the controversial overturned call, the Tigers have had a “Memphis vs Everybody” mentality. “We were in total control of how we prepared this week. How we respond to some adversity we had seen” said Coach Mike Norvell following Saturday’s game “There was great purpose.”
The Tigers now have another conference road test against Tulsa. Although the Golden Hurricanes are 0-3 in the conference and 2-5 overall, they have continued to give scares to conference front runners including Cincinnati and SMU. This game could be the ultimate trap to knock the Tigers back out of the coaches poll if they aren’t careful. But until then, it is Memphis Vs. Everybody.