July 29, 2008

MEMPHIS, TENN. - The season opener between the Memphis Tigers and Ole Miss Rebels on August 30 has been changed from a 5 p.m. kickoff to a 6 p.m. start at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium in Oxford. The change was agreed upon by officials at both schools in giving fans some relief from high temperatures.

The contest will mark the 58th meeting between the two squads, and the 20th matchup in Oxford. This year also marks the fifth straight time that the two teams have opened up the season against each other.

The Tigers report to fall camp on Sunday and will begin practice early Monday morning at the Murphy Athletic Complex. The Highland Hundred will host its Kickoff Banquet on Friday, Aug. 8, at the Holiday Inn on Central Avenue. The coaching staff will be in attendance and the 2008 newcomers will be introduced that evening. The event is open to the public and the cost is $30 per person. The reception and silent auction begins at 6 p.m., with the dinner to follow at 7 p.m. Representatives from Champion Awards will be set up outside of the ballroom selling Tiger merchandise.

Fans will get their first chance to mingle with their favorite Tigers at Football FanFest on Saturday, Aug. 23, from 3-5 p.m. The event will take place on Field 1 at the Murphy Complex practice facility located on the U of M's Park Avenue Campus. Players and coaches will be available for photos and autographs. The Tiger ticket office staff will be present to sell tickets as well as the 2008 media guide. The festivities are free and open to the public.