Tulane Defeats No. 22 Memphis 38–32 to Stay in CFP Contention
The Tulane Green Wave kept their College Football Playoff hopes alive with a thrilling 38–32 win over No. 22 Memphis on Friday night. Behind quarterback Jake Retzlaff’s electric first-half performance, Tulane showcased its offensive precision and defensive resilience, reaffirming its dominance within the Group of Five. The victory not only boosts Tulane’s CFP positioning but also highlights the team’s consistency and adaptability against ranked opponents.
Main Topic Overview
Tulane entered the matchup needing a statement win to remain relevant in the playoff conversation — and delivered exactly that. Retzlaff’s command of the offense, combined with clutch defensive stops, allowed Tulane to control most of the game despite a late Memphis surge. For Memphis, quarterback Brendon Lewis’s injury proved costly, as the Tigers’ rhythm faltered in key moments. This matchup between AAC powerhouses reflected the rising competitiveness and national relevance of Group of Five programs.
News Coverage
Tulane beats No. 22 Memphis 38-32 to stay in contention for the Group of Five’s spot in CFP
CBS Sports provided a comprehensive recap emphasizing Tulane’s offensive balance and discipline. Jake Retzlaff’s 300-yard passing effort and the defense’s late-game composure were key storylines. The piece positioned Tulane as a legitimate New Year’s Six contender, noting the implications for the Group of Five’s CFP berth and the momentum this win generates heading into the final stretch of the season.
Tulane beats Memphis: How result impacts College Football Playoff race
On3 analyzed the broader playoff impact of Tulane’s win, stressing how the Green Wave remain the top Group of Five candidate for the postseason. The report credited head coach Willie Fritz’s preparation and adaptability, pointing out that Tulane has now won three consecutive road games against ranked opponents. The outlet also compared Tulane’s performance metrics against fellow CFP hopefuls like Liberty and Boise State.
Huge first half from Jake Retzlaff leads Tulane to big victory at Memphis
NOLA.com spotlighted quarterback Jake Retzlaff’s dominant first half, in which he threw three touchdowns and set the tone for Tulane’s offensive rhythm. The analysis praised Retzlaff’s ability to read Memphis’s secondary and maintain poise under pressure. It also highlighted Tulane’s creative play-calling, which mixed tempo and balance to keep the Tigers’ defense off-balance through the opening quarters.
Brendon Lewis injury update: Memphis football QB leaves loss to Tulane with injury
The Commercial Appeal detailed a key turning point in the game: Memphis quarterback Brendon Lewis’s injury late in the second quarter. The report explained how his exit disrupted the Tigers’ offensive flow, forcing adjustments that Tulane’s defense exploited. While Memphis’s backup showed flashes of potential, the piece emphasized how Lewis’s absence underscored Tulane’s defensive intensity and game awareness.
Final: Tulane 38 - Memphis 32 2nd Half Highlights, Commentary, and Stats
Sports Illustrated’s postgame report offered statistical depth and tactical context. Tulane’s defense limited Memphis to just one touchdown in the second half while the offense maintained possession effectively. Analysts pointed to Tulane’s time-of-possession advantage and turnover margin as critical factors that sealed the six-point win. The article also noted how the victory enhances Tulane’s national profile heading into bowl season projections.
Summary / Insights
Tulane’s 38–32 win over Memphis represents more than just another victory — it’s a statement that the Green Wave remain a powerhouse in the Group of Five and a legitimate contender for a New Year’s Six bowl. With Jake Retzlaff’s precision passing and the defense’s resilience under pressure, Tulane showcased the balance and maturity of a championship-caliber team. Media coverage consistently highlighted the program’s momentum, its growing national credibility, and its steady rise as a dark horse in the broader playoff landscape.
TL;DR
Jake Retzlaff led Tulane to a 38–32 win over No. 22 Memphis, keeping the Green Wave’s CFP hopes alive. The victory underscored Tulane’s offensive firepower and playoff ambitions.
Resources
Sources and references cited in this article.