April 10, 2007

The University of Memphis will replace previously-announced Nicholls State University as an opponent on its 2007 football schedule. Instead of taking on the Colonels at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium on September 15, the Tigers will new play Jacksonville State University.

"We had every hope that Nicholls State could clear a conflict in their 2007 schedule and play the Tigers this fall," said Memphis Athletic Director R.C. Johnson. "But time was of the essence and we needed to move ahead in our preparations for the fall season

"When we heard that Jacksonville State had an opening that fit within the framework of our schedule, we decided to make the change and bring the Gamecocks to Memphis."

Jacksonville State University, which is coached by former Arkansas head coach Jack Crow, posted a 6-5 record in 2006 which included wins over Murray State, UT-Chattanooga and Southeast Missouri. The Gamecocks also battled the Mississippi State Bulldogs in Starkville during last season.

This year's game will mark the second meeting between the two teams. JSU, which is located in Jacksonville, Alabama, played the Tigers during the 1937 season with Memphis winning 46-0 at Crump Stadium.