Image Source: CBS Sports
Tulane football faces a major American Conference challenge Friday night when the Green Wave welcome the Memphis Tigers to Benson Field at Yulman Stadium in New Orleans. The matchup features two teams heading in different directions, with Memphis chasing another conference win and Tulane trying to recover from a difficult road defeat.
Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET on October 16, 2026. Memphis enters the game at 5-1 overall and 2-0 in American Conference play after rolling past UAB, 38-13, last Saturday. The Tigers have won three consecutive games and have shown enough form to open as seven-point favorites.
Tulane is 2-3 overall and 0-1 in conference action. The Green Wave lost a narrow 20-17 decision at Army in Week 6, marking their second defeat in three games. Despite the recent struggles, Tulane has protected its home field effectively this season, going 2-0 in New Orleans.
Critical Tulane Football Matchup Comes With Tight Odds
The latest Memphis versus Tulane betting line lists the Tigers as seven-point favorites. The over/under is set at 54.5 points, while Memphis is listed at -265 on the money line and Tulane at +220.
- Spread: Memphis -7
- Over/under: 54.5 points
- Money line: Memphis -265, Tulane +220
- Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Benson Field at Yulman Stadium, New Orleans
The total has moved upward from its opening number of 53.5 points. However, the SportsLine Projection Model still identifies the Under 54.5 as its top listed play after simulating the game 10,000 times.
Powerful Model Points Toward a Lower-Scoring Battle
The model’s Under recommendation is supported by recent trends involving both teams. Tulane has failed to surpass the total in each of its last two games and in three of its five contests this season. Memphis also played an Under in its most recent outing against UAB, despite scoring 38 points in the victory.
SportsLine’s projection expects neither team to reach 30 points, making the Under a narrow value opportunity at the current number. The Under is priced at approximately +100, compared with -114 for the Over, according to the odds cited by CBS Sports.
The model also indicates that one side of the spread hits in well over 60% of its simulations. The specific spread recommendation is reserved for the full SportsLine projection, but the overall outlook suggests Memphis has a statistical advantage entering Friday’s contest.
History Gives Tulane Football Reason for Confidence
Although Memphis has the better record this season, the recent series history favors Tulane. The Tigers lead the all-time matchup 25-16-1, but the Green Wave have won three of the last four meetings. Tulane also won last year’s meeting, 38-32, in a high-scoring contest.
That history could provide a boost for a Tulane team looking to change its conference momentum. The Green Wave’s home record is another important factor, especially against a Memphis squad that is 2-1 on the road in 2026.
For Memphis, the objective is clear: maintain its perfect American Conference record and continue building pressure in the league race. A road victory would give the Tigers a fourth straight win and strengthen their position as one of the conference’s early contenders.
What to Watch on Friday Night
The opening stages of the game could determine whether the total reaches the mid-50s. Memphis has the momentum advantage, while Tulane owns the home-field edge and recent-series confidence. Turnovers, third-down efficiency and red-zone execution may prove especially important in a matchup projected to remain close to the posted number.
Odds can change before kickoff, and betting lines vary by sportsbook. Wagering involves risk, so fans should review current information and bet responsibly. The game’s result will also provide an important early indication of whether Tulane can regain its footing in conference play.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tulane Football
When does Tulane play Memphis?
Tulane hosts Memphis on Friday, October 16, 2026. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET at Benson Field at Yulman Stadium in New Orleans.
What is the Memphis versus Tulane spread?
Memphis is listed as a seven-point favorite in the latest spread reported by CBS Sports.
What is the projected total for the game?
The over/under is 54.5 points. SportsLine’s model favors the Under after running 10,000 simulations.
What is Tulane’s record this season?
Tulane enters the matchup with a 2-3 overall record and a 0-1 mark in American Conference play.
Who won the last meeting?
Tulane won the most recent meeting, defeating Memphis 38-32 last season.
