Tigers Talk: Sutton Smith injury, how FSU’s downfall impacts Memphis
University of Memphis running back Sutton Smith (5) runs in for a touchdown during the AutoZone Liberty Bowl game against Iowa State Dec. 29, 2023. (Patrick Lantrip/The Daily Memphian file)
Welcome to this edition of Tigers Talk with The Daily Memphian’s Tigers football beat writer Frank Bonner and college sports columnist John Martin. Bonner and Martin answer will address some of the most pressing topics and storylines throughout the season.
If Sutton Smith can’t return, how much does that concern you about the Memphis offense?
Frank Bonner II: I’m not going to lie, losing Sutton Smith is a massive blow. I wouldn’t hold my breath waiting for his return, either. To put things in perspective, the Tigers landed South Carolina’s leading rusher out of the transfer portal this offseason, and Smith still earned the Week 1 start instead of Mario Anderson. He’s that good.
Memphis didn’t just lose a ball carrier when he went down. They lost a running back who was expected to have a significant role as a pass catcher. It also doesn’t help to see Memphis only rushed for 64 yards while averaging 2.5 yards per carry against North Alabama. I still think the offense is going to be explosive. Seth Henigan is the best quarterback in the conference, and Roc Taylor leads an experienced group of receivers.
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Frank Bonner II
Frank Bonner is the Memphis Tigers football beat writer. He is originally from Indiana but arrived in Memphis after spending two years in Tulsa, covering Oklahoma State football and basketball. He covered high school sports in Columbus, Indiana for two years before getting his Master’s degree in Sports Journalism at IUPUI. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in journalism from Indiana University.
John Martin
John Martin is a contributing college sports columnist for The Daily Memphian. Martin is a lifelong Memphian who’s covered the Memphis Tigers’ basketball program for more than a decade. Before joining The Daily Memphian team, he was the Memphis beat writer for The Athletic. Currently, he is the co-host of the Jason and John Show on 92.9 FM ESPN, weekdays at 11 a.m. Martin is a graduate of White Station High School and the University of Memphis.
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