Sept. 1, 2010

MEMPHIS, TENN. -

By: Jeff Brightwell

Anticipation could be the word most used as Memphis Football is just days away from opening the season in Starkville against Mississippi State. First-year head coach Larry Porter wants Saturday night to be the "birth of a new identity" for his program.

Most teams are identified on offense with the quarterback and Memphis is no different. Porter has tabbed Cannon Smith as the starter for the season opener. The red-shirt sophomore edged out freshman Ryan Williams, but Porter also stated that he will do whatever it takes to win the game. Greg Ray will line up behind Smith at running back because Porter likes his warrior mentality. Porter loves toughness, "it gives you an advantage when you're trying to pursue victory".

If Smith and Ray are to be successful, they'll need the help of the offensive line. Porter has talked frequently about the potential of this group led by All-Conference tackle Dominik Riley and Rimington Trophy candidate Brad Paul. Porter says to have a successful offense, the Tigers will have to be able to run the ball and that will start up front. At Monday's press conference, Porter used three words to describe an offensive line, "grit, grind, and toughness."

Defensively, Memphis will have to compete with a solid Bulldog offensive line while the defensive backfield will have to contend with wide receiver Chad Bumpis. The new identity of the defense may be the biggest thing to look for under Porter.

So, after nine months on the job, both Tiger fans and Coach Porter are anticipating the opening of a new season and maybe more importantly, the birth of a new identity.

See below for interviews with defensive lineman Dontari Poe, linebacker Jamon Hughes and quarterback Cannon Smith.