KLTV 7 News Tyler, Longview, Jacksonville |Memphis-Houston Preview Capsule
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Associated Press - November 19, 2009 11:45 AM ET
Line: Houston by 23 1/2
Series Record: Houston leads 10-9
Last meeting: 2006, Houston 23-20, OT.
What's At Stake
At 4-2 in Conference USA play after a 37-32 loss to Central Florida on Saturday, Houston has to win its final two games for a shot at West division title. That still might not be enough with SMU leading the division with a 5-1 record and two games left.
Key Matchup
Houston quarterback Case Keenum against the injury-depleted Memphis secondary. Keenum leads the nation with 419.40 yards passing a game and Memphis is allowing 255 yards passing a game which ranks 105th in the country. Things could be even tougher this week as strong safety Marcus Ball is expected to sit out with an injury. Ball leads the team with two interceptions.
Players to Watch
Memphis: Curtis Steele leads the Tigers with 847 yards rushing with nine touchdowns. He's averaging almost 106 yards a game and had 107 yards rushing and two scores in last week's loss to UAB.
Houston: Keenum not only leads the nation in yards passing, but is also No. 1 in total offense (429.70), total passing yards (4,194), completions (35.8) and points responsible for (20.8). With 377 yards passing against Central Florida, Keenum has thrown for at least 300 yards in 22 of his last 24 games. He has thrown for 31 touchdowns and ran for three more.
Facts & Figures
Memphis has won 3 of the last four meetings with Houston. ... The Cougars haven't beaten Memphis at home since a 35-14 win in 1998. ... These teams have combined for an average of 51 points a game in their last nine meetings. ... Memphis receiver Duke Calhoun has at least one reception in 47 straight games. ... Houston RBs Bryce Beall and Charles Sims have combined for 1,041 yards rushing and 11 touchdowns. The pair have added 822 yards receiving and four more scores. ... Houston KR/PR Tyron Carrier is averaging 27.3 yards a kick return and has two return touchdowns.
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