The first edition of the Montgomery Bowl will match up Memphis and Florida Atlantic. Two contrasting styles of play should make for a fun game to watch. The Tigers, led by QB Brady White, love to throw it all over the field while the Owls prefer moving the ball on the ground.

The Match up: Memphis Tigers vs Florida Atlantic Owls

Time: 7PM EST

Betting Lines: Memphis -8, O/U 53

How They Got There: Memphis Tigers

Last years NY6 representative came into 2020 with the same high expectations. Unfortunately for the Tigers, early season opt outs of star RB Kenneth Gainwell and WR Damonte Coxie created massive holes in the offense. Luckily, they have had the steadying presence of 5th year senior Brady White under center who’s thrown for over 3000 yards for the 3rd straight year. The defense on the other hand has struggled, allowing nearly 30 points per game. Memphis finished the season 7-3 highlighted by a incredible 50-49 comeback win over UCF.

Players to watch:

Brady White: Could be the senior’s last game in college. The Southern California native is the record holder in every relevant passing stat in Memphis football history.

Calvin Austin III: The WR has filled Damonte Coxie’s place nicely hauling in over a 1000 yards and 10 TDs in this shortened season.

How They Got There: The FAU Owls

While the Lane Train is no longer rolling in Boca Raton, Willie Taggart has kept the ball rolling for the Owls. A 5-3 record in his debut season matched expectations in a season where they struggled against the best of Conference USA. The ongoing story line for FAU has been the rotation at the QB position between Nick Tronti and Javion Posey. Tronti is better through the air while Posey is electrifying on the ground, leading the team in rushing. Look for both to get snaps in their final game of the season tonight.

Players to watch:

James Charles: The teams second leading rusher has taken the place of Malcolm Davidson and BJ Emmons who have opted out.

Leighton McCarthy: Senior OLB is tied for fourth nationally with nine sacks. Pass rush will be critical in slowing down Memphis QB Brady White.

Predictions:

Look for FAU to control the clock early in the game to keep Memphis offense off the field. A tight first half could be followed by the Tigers trying to open up the game in the third and fourth quarter. In the end, Brady White and Memphis’ offense will create separation towards the end of the game.

Betting Picks: Memphis -8, O53

Final Score: Memphis 34- FAU 21