Thursday, August 28, 2014

Skelly Field at H. A. Chapman Stadium in Tulsa

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In a game that will feature two of the newest members of the American Athletic Conference, the Tulane Green Wave and the Tulsa Golden Hurricane will square off on Thursday night. Tulane was able to beat Tulsa 14-7 at home last year.

Tulane were in the beginning of their rebuilding process in 2013, but they did do pretty well by finishing with a 7-5 regular season record. They went to the R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl and ended up losing 24-21 to LA-Lafayette.

The Green Wave will be returning five starters from last year's team. They may have a hard time moving the ball on the ground this year because Josh Rounds, who only rushed for 163 yards in 2013, is expected to take over as the full-time running back. Even though Tulane does have some issues on offense, it's actually the defense that is expected to be the team's downfall in 2014 because they lack depth and only have a few returning players.

Tulsa had a very hard time picking up wins last season and ended up with a 3-9 record. They only threw for 191.4 yards per game in 2013, which ranked them outside of the top 100 in the country. Their defense was also poor, allowing 33.9 points per game.

Just like Tulane, the Golden Hurricane are going to be relying on quite a few newcomers to be contributors this year. The main player to watch is left tackle Garrett Stafford, who is considered their most talented offensive player.

Injuries to Watch

Tulane Green Wave

08/23/14 WR Marc Edwards Appendix out indefinitely
08/23/14 LB Royce LaFrance Suspension expected to miss 1st half Thursday vs. Tulsa
08/02/14 RB Rob Kelley Academics "?" Thursday vs. Tulsa
08/02/14 TE Niguel Veal Suspension out indefinitely

Tulsa Golden Hurricane

No Injuries to report at this time

Guy's Pick: Take Tulsa

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