The University of Memphis football team used another stellar defensive performance to defeat Temple, 24-3, at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in Memphis, Tenn. on Saturday afternoon.

With the victory, the Tigers are 4-1 to start the season for the first time since 2019 and 2-0 in American Athletic Conference (AAC) play for the first time since 2016. With the loss, the Owls fall to 2-3 overall and 0-1 in conference.

Linebacker Xavier "Zay" Cullens led the charge defensively, posting a game-high nine tackles to go with 2.5 tackles for loss, an interception and a pass breakup. Both Tyler Murray and Cincir Evans also had picks for Memphis, who extended the team's streak to 10-straight games with at least one turnover.

Offensively, running back Brandon Thomas ran for two touchdowns for the second-consecutive week, while tight end Caden Prieskorn had a four-yard scoring grab to give him five touchdowns in his last four contests. Quarterback Seth Henigan completed 24-of-45 passes for 195 yards and one score.

With Temple leading 3-0 at halftime, the Tigers suffocated the Owls both offensively and defensively in the second half. Memphis scored 24 points in the game's last 16:36 minutes, while the defense forced three turnovers in the final 5:36 minutes of the game.

The Memphis Tigers will be back in action on Friday, Oct. 7 when the team plays host to AAC rival Houston at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium. The game is slated for a 6:30 p.m. kickoff and will be broadcast nationally on ESPN2.