SOUTHERN MISS: The Eagles’ revamped offensive line drew mixed reviews in the season-opening victory over Tennessee-Martin. The team gained more than 300 yards rushing, but had trouble protecting the quarterback.

SMU: Some preseason prognosticators predicted big things for the Mustangs. But, as Dallas Morning News columnist Kevin Sherrington notes, those big things didn’t translate to a big crowd in the stands against Texas Tech, or a good result on the field.

RICE: Even though his receivers dropped several passes, Owls quarterback Chase Clement says the only person responsible in Rice’s 16-14 loss to Nicholls State is … himself.

UAB: A bright spot in the Blazers’ 55-18 loss to Michigan State on Saturday was the play of linebacker Mike Tashman, who had seven tackles, two tackles for loss and one forced fumble.

MARSHALL: Thundering Herd quarterback Bernard Morris had a bad day against Miami, coming to many of the Orange Bowl blades of grass on a first-name basis. Still, his offensive line is defending him.

EAST CAROLINA: Pirates’ quarterback Rob Kass is back from his one-suspension for driving while intoxicated. So Skip Holtz made the big announcement that he was naming a new starter. But it’s not Rob Kass, who is at the bottom of the depth chart for the time being.

TULANE: The Green Wave doesn’t start play until this week’s contest with Mississippi State. That has given coach Bob Toledo a chance to get the gameplan in earlier than normal.

TULSA: Freshman fullback Charles Clay made a big impression in his first game. With Clay helping the running load, the Hurricane defeated Louisiana-Monroe.

UTEP: High-powered Texas Tech will pose a big problem for the Miners, and UTEP coach Mike Price knows it.

UCF: They have momentum on their side after a victory over North Carolina State, but Knights need to channel that for their next game, against Texas on Sept. 15.

And make sure to check The Commercial Appeal or commercialappeal.com on Wednesday to read Phil Stukenborg’s story about how the Memphis receivers played a huge role when the Tigers rallied against Ole Miss.