It’s been a longtime since a team other than Memphis was at the top of the Conference USA standings this late in the season. In most years, Memphis is not expected to lose two games in conference play all season long, yet after niine league games, the Tig

2010-02-12

It’s been a longtime since a team other than Memphis was at the top of the Conference USA standings this late in the season. In most years, Memphis is not expected to lose two games in conference play all season long, yet after niine league games, the Tigers are 7-2 and facing the prospects of falling behind further should they lose what figures to be a tough contest at Tulsa on Saturday. The Golden Hurricane are 8-2 in league play, just a ½ game back of UTEP. With their recent history, Sportsbook.com bettors figure to be embracing Memphis’ chances here. Be sure to check the latest game breakdown on the Sportsbook.com GAME MATCHUP page.

Memphis fans are finding out what it is like to no longer be elite. The Tigers have been clipped for a couple of C-USA losses, as Tigers’ fan jealously think of how John Wall and DeMarcus Cousins would have looked in Memphis blue. The Tigers (17-7, 6-13 ATS) are no longer privileged, going just seven deep and six players absorbing the majority of the minutes. Coach Josh Pastner knows what he will receive most nights from the backcourt, up front, not so much. Memphis is just 1-6 ATS against clubs with winning home record.

Tulsa (19-5, 7-13-1 ATS) has two exemplary players in guard Ben Uzoh and center Jerome Jordan and they are the only two to start every game this season. With Memphis finally vulnerable, the senior duo understands this is their time and they want to be the top dog of the league. The Golden Hurricane can board, leading the conference in rebounding margin, but get very few easy baskets ranking last in creating turnovers. Tulsa still has other taxing affairs ahead, yet a win here breeds confidence for a team that is 12-3 ATS in its L15 as a home favorite of six points or less.

Both teams have two conference losses and trail once beaten UTEP. The loser could be out of C-USA contention and Memphis likes their chances since they have won 10 of their L11 vs. Tulsa (6-5 ATS), including last four visits to Tulsa, covering three times.

The StatFox Power Line shows Tulsa by 4.

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