Nov. 24, 2007

MEMPHIS, TENN. - The University of Memphis football team played the longest game in school history and following a triple overtime, 55-52, victory over the SMU Mustangs, the Tigers accepted a bid to participate in the 2007 R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl. The game will be played in the Superdome on December 21 and will pit the U of M against the champion of the Sun Belt Conference.

"What a great reward for this football team," said the Tigers' delighted head coach Tommy West. "For this team to come together the way it did this year and battle back from so many adversities; this bowl invitation is a tribute to what they have accomplished and overcome."

Memphis played the University of North Texas in the 2003 New Orleans Bowl, marking the Tigers' first bowl appearance in over 30 years. Led by the play of quarterback Danny Wimprine and tailback LaKendus Cole, the U of M defeated the Mean Green, 27-17.

"Our staff and team had a great time in 2003 when we attended the New Orleans Bowl and I can tell you that we look forward to returning again," West stated. "Our fans love to travel to New Orleans and I feel certain we will have a great following for this year's contest."

The Tigers battled back from a 2-4 mark in mid-October to win five of the team's last six games of the season. Memphis became bowl eligible with its win over UAB on November 17 and finished the season with a 7-5 mark after Saturday's 55-52 win.

Ticket information for this year's R+L New Orleans Bowl is expected to be available by Sunday afternoon and will be announced to the media, as well as being posted on the official athletic department website, www.GoTigersGo.com.