It’s the First Responder Bowl in Dallas, and Memphis is set to face Utah State on Tuesday, Dec. 27. The game is scheduled for 3:15 ET while airing on ESPN. Memphis enters this game as 7-point favorites with the total set at 58.5. How will this one play out? Let’s dive into the Memphis vs. Utah State prediction for the First Responder Bowl below.
Memphis vs. Utah State Odds
- Spread: Memphis -7
- Total: 58.5
Odds via FanDuel Sportsbook. New to FanDuel? Check out our FanDuel Sportsbook Review to find out how to redeem a $1,000 risk-free bet!
Game Info
- Date: Tuesday, Dec. 27
- Time: 3:15 ET
- Location: Gerald J. Ford Stadium — Dallas, TX
- TV: ESPN
Memphis vs. Utah State Predictions
Memphis dropped five of its final six AAC games to finish with a 6-6 record. Still, the Tigers are a solid offensive team that ranks 26th in the nation for scoring and 41st in total offense. The defensive side of the ball is where most of the questions arise, as Memphis ranks 90th in opponent points per game, 76th in total defense, and 109th in opponent third down percentage.
There are some questions for Utah State, which also has a 6-6 record, coming into this game. There have been reports that star RB Calvin Tyler may or may not play in this game as he prepares for the NFL draft. However, an interview conducted by ABC4 in Utah mentioned that Tyler is excited to play in the First Responders Bowl, which takes place in his home state of Texas. If you read the article, it sure sounds like he is playing, which is a huge boost for the Aggies.
Utah State should be able to slow down a competent Memphis offense, as the Aggies rank sixth in opponent completion percentage and 39th in pass defense. That’s a tough matchup for Memphis, which likes to throw the football while holding the 18th ranked passing offense.
There’s a good chance the Aggies can get the running game going and slow down Memphis’ passing attack enough to keep this one close. Let’s take the underdog here.
The Pick: Utah State +7 | -110 at FanDuel Sportsbook