Tulane Must Be Fueled by Memphis Rivalry in Pivotal Matchup

The Tulane Green Wave don’t have that big of rivalries left, but one that’s for certain is against the Memphis Tigers.

The Green Wave are dealing with a bit of an identity crisis as they look to regain their typical dominance in conference play.

It’ll either be a charge led by a struggling veteran quarterback who has shown flashes and game-clinching moments while faltering in others, or in the debut of a true freshman quarterback who certainly carries a higher risk but also the highest ceiling in the room.

It just feels like no matter the time, record, or situation in which these teams face each other, both sides always rise to the occasion.

And the home field advantage in this one will really matter as the Green Wave will look to quell and stifle an offense that's a major scoring threat and averages over 500 yards per contest.

It’s a game where a turnover in the Wave’s favor could desperately make a difference.

Tulane has only recovered one fumble this year. However, they’ve also majorly protected the football.

The few times they’ve turned the ball over have made a difference, and the defense just hasn’t been able to change the momentum by a turnover on their end.

Any game changers in the Green Wave’s favor will be welcome.

They certainly come into this matchup less in a position of strength.

Charles Huff has this Memphis program rolling, but they just haven’t been tested in the same manner that the Green Wave have through non-conference play – and really conference play, for that matter.

The Tigers have thus far faced the UAB Blazers and Charlotte 49ers. The Blazers are a difficult matchup, but are probably closer on par to Army than anything else.

The 49ers, though, are still searching for their first win of the season.

Memphis also didn’t face a Power Four team in conference play. They played a strong Boise State Broncos squad as one of the better G6 matchups there is. But UNLV, Arkansas State, and UT Martin from FCS won’t move the needle too much.

Tulane has been tested much more heavily. But there comes a point that tests without results are just who a team really is.

If the Green Wave want to show that they’re better off for the trials and tribulations they’ve faced, they have to show the ability to pass the final exam.

Any shot of getting there goes through Memphis first.