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.
Topics
Tigers Talk college football Sutton Smith Memphis vs. Florida State Subscriber OnlyAre you enjoying your subscription?
Your subscription gives you unlimited access to all of The Daily Memphian’s news, written by nearly 40 local journalists and more than 20 regular freelancers. We work around the clock to cover the issues that impact your life and our community.
You can help us reach more Memphians.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we provide free news access at K-12 schools, public libraries and many community organizations. We also reach tens of thousands of people through our podcasts, and through our radio and television partnerships – all completely free to everyone who cares about Memphis.
When you subscribe, you get full access to our news. But when you donate, you help us reach all Memphians.
Pay it forward. Make a fully tax-deductible donation to The Daily Memphian today.
Thank you for reading the local news. Thank you for investing in our community.
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.
Want to comment on our stories or respond to others? Join the conversation by subscribing now. Only paid subscribers can add their thoughts or upvote/downvote comments. Our commenting policy can be viewed here.