This is a tougher non-conf schedule than it appeared to be at first glance in September, especially if these predictions hold true. Consider Memphis faces 3, maybe 4 Big East teams, five 1st-place teams (including Xavier & UT), and two 2nd-place teams. From Mid-major conferences, yes, but that doesn’t guarantee a victory. In fact these teams will come in with something to prove and want to compete against Memphis. Vols, X, & Zags might also be ranked in Top 25, or fighting to establish themselves among the top. Whereas Drexel, UMass, Marist, Lamar all have former Tiger asst-coaches, which should give them an extra advantage and make for a challenging game, similar to playing against Tony Barbee’s UTEP.

Tigers could also meet a Pac-10 team in USC, who barely lost to Tigers in OT last year in an ugly slow-paced game on a neutral court! After USC(win or loose), they could meet A-10 elite 8 Xavier, or ACC, or B-12 Missouri (no pushover.)

Regardless of the opponent, if Tigers are now considered an elite team, then along with that status comes a much larger target on their back. So all opponents will be taking aim with more eagerness and game strategy than before.