How Memphis' Defense Stifled Florida State's Comeback Hopes

Memphis' second-to-last defensive drive was a clinic in strategic play calling. Leading by 8 points with 2:45 left in the game, a stop here would all but seal the win. Yes, Florida State got the ball back once more, but by then it was a Hail Mary scenario. This possession, however, showcased how to handle a team in a two-minute situation under pressure, with pressure.

On the first play, Memphis dialed up what initially looked like a 6-man blitz. After reviewing the tape, it was actually a 5-man peel pressure, with one of the linebackers responsible for covering the back. Florida State came out in 11 personnel, lined up 2x2, while Memphis showed an even front with a 6-man box and a single-high safety look.

At the snap, both Memphis linebackers rushed their C-gaps. Their peel rule would kick in—if the back flared out to their side, they’d cover him. The top linebacker peeled off to cover the back, while the other continued his path, which led to a critical sack that swung the momentum firmly in Memphis' favor.

On the very next play, Memphis initially showed a 5-man pressure but then dropped eight into coverage. This allowed the Tigers to play aggressive underneath, effectively tightening up passing lanes. The result? A well-executed pass breakup by the corner, forcing FSU into a difficult third-down situation.

On 3rd and 19, the Tigers dialed up the heat once more, this time with a straight 6-man pressure with blitz coverage behind it. Memphis lined up in a Boss front, sending both linebackers through the A-gap and off the edge. Florida State's running back worked to the "bigs" side for pass protection, which left the edge rusher unblocked. The outcome was exactly what Memphis wanted—another sack, forcing FSU to punt. This allowed Memphis to milk the clock down to under a minute before FSU's final, desperate drive.

Memphis held Florida State to just 12 points on the night, but this drive was the defining moment for their defense. Three plays, negative yardage, and two sacks. The Tigers walked out of Tallahassee with a well-earned victory, leaving the Seminoles to pick up the pieces of a shattered season.