Week two preview: Boise State hosts Memphis in 40th anniversary of the Blue
- Memphis uses a slow-mesh/veer-and-shoot offense with wide receiver splits, RPOs against light boxes and explosive play-action shots, led by West Florida transfer Marcus Stokes. The Boise State preview identifies line control by David Latu and Mikaio Edward and reliable linebacker tackling as keys to defending it; those are the writer's matchup priorities, not announced personnel changes.
- Memphis' aggressive 4-2-5 uses stunts and man coverage; edges J'Mond Tapp and Elijah Kinsler combined for 17 pressures through two games. The Tigers allowed 11 explosive plays, an 8% rate, including three explosive runs. Boise State managed only four explosives against Oregon, all passes, making consistent big-play creation a specific offensive question.
- The preview recommends Boise State use quick perimeter throws to reduce Memphis' pass-rush impact and test secondary tackling. It cites Anthony Richard Jr.'s 19% career missed-tackle rate and nickel Ian Foster's 20% rate this season. Extra screen touches for Cameron Bates or Rasean Jones are the writer's suggestion, not a confirmed play-calling or usage change.
- Memphis QB Marcus Stokes has completed only one pass when pressured this season, with a scramble or sack on 50% of those situations; the preview says he has faced pressure only 21% of the time. Boise State must contain his rushing escape routes as well as generate pressure. These are early-season scouting figures, not a forecast of his performance in Boise.
- In the Sept. 11 preview, Nathan Carroll picks Memphis 27-26 and calls its quoted +285 moneyline value relative to his +220 assessment, despite his own power ratings favoring Boise State by 7.6. The article lists Boise State -8.5 and a 56.5 total. This is an attributed, dated opinion and odds snapshot, not a current line or consensus pick.
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