The 2024 Frisco Bowl is scheduled for Tuesday night, featuring a matchup between the No. 25 Memphis Tigers and the West Virginia Mountaineers. The Tigers are looking to build on their remarkable success, having secured 10 wins for the second consecutive year under head coach Ryan Silverfield. They also aim to clinch their third consecutive bowl victory. In contrast, West Virginia enters the game after ending their season at 6-6 and recently hired former player Rich Rodriguez as their new head coach, following the departure of Neal Brown. This change adds an element of uncertainty to the Mountaineers’ preparation. Notably, linebacker Josiah Trotter will miss the game due to a transfer commitment to Missouri.
Kickoff is set for 9 p.m. ET at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas. The betting odds favor Memphis by 5 points, with an over/under set at 60 points—an increase from the initial line.
Memphis earned their ranking in the top 25 thanks to a potent offensive lineup led by quarterback Seth Henigan, who has amassed 3,208 yards and 23 touchdowns, paired with the standout performance of running back Mario Anderson, who rushed for 1,290 yards and 17 touchdowns. The Tigers also showcased an aggressive defense, forcing 24 turnovers over the season, which includes impressive performances against UAB and Tulane.
On the other hand, West Virginia plans to rely on its established three-man rushing attack, featuring Garrett Greene, Jahiem White, and CJ Donaldson, each contributing significantly in yardage and touchdowns throughout the season. This strategy has proven effective for the Mountaineers, especially in games where they exceed 200 rushing yards.
As the game approaches, the advanced analytical model from SportsLine has simulated this matchup 10,000 times and leans towards the over on the point total. It suggests a strong likelihood for a specific point-spread outcome, which has been successful in nearly 60% of simulations.
This matchup not only presents an exciting opportunity for Memphis to solidify its reputation but also offers West Virginia a chance to demonstrate resilience and adaptability under new leadership. Fans can anticipate an exciting game filled with potential for both teams.
Ultimately, the significance of this bowl game extends beyond the final score. It represents Memphis’s continuity and hope for future success, while West Virginia embraces a fresh start, fostering optimism in their evolving program.