Takeaways: Memphis Survives Navy To Open 2023 AAC Play

While the Memphis Tigers were two-score favorites heading into Thursday's matchup, the Navy Midshipmen didn't quite give them that much breathing room. After a

© Chris Day/The Commercial Appeal / USA TODAY NETWORK

While the Memphis Tigers were two-score favorites heading into Thursday's matchup, the Navy Midshipmen didn't quite give them that much breathing room.

After a fourth quarter that included four turnovers between the two teams, Memphis were deemed the victors when Navy's final possession ended in a turnover on downs that warranted a review by the officials. 

The Tigers Are a Turnover Machine

With a recovered fumble early in the second quarter on Thursday night, Memphis has now forced at least one turnover in 18 of their last 21 games. In that length of time, they've produced 43 total turnovers.

Navy won the time of possession battle, but simply couldn't hang on to the ball at critical junctures.

ODU Transfer Blake Watson Has A Productive Night

The former Old Dominion running back was utilized quite a bit in the victory. He totaled 16 touches with 169 yards on the ground and 68 receiving yards. He did pick up his first touchdown in two weeks when he kicked off the scoring for Memphis tonight.

Memphis gets things started with a TD on their first drive of the game courtesy of @BlakeWatson_2!#AmericanFB x @MemphisFB pic.twitter.com/fJuBQRUkOs

— The American (@American_Conf) September 14, 2023

Henigan, Again and Again

Memphis quarterback Seth Henigan had a few miscues in this game, namely an interception and a lost fumble. He also accounted for three touchdowns: two on the ground and one in the air. 

Navy made it a point to bring as much pressure as possible for Henigan in this one. The Mids sacked him twice and hurried him handful of times, but the junior responded early. 

It's worth noting: both of Henigan's aforementioned turnovers came in the fourth quarter, delaying Memphis' chance to put the win on ice.

What now, for Memphis? 

The 3-0 Tigers have an interesting pair of contests coming up. Still undefeated, they'll head to Mizzou on September 23 to face a team that looked quite vulnerable against Middle Tennessee. Then, they'll host Boise State in a battle of proud G5 programs.

What now, for Navy?

The road does not get easier for the Midshipmen in the next few weeks. They head south to Tampa Bay for a showdown with USF on September 30. Lavatai and company are only going to get more comfortable with the team's newly tweaked offense the more that they play.