It's been three years since Memphis and Ole Miss have faced off in a rivalry that dates in 1921. Here's what Ole Miss fans might want to know about their first opponent of the 2019 college football season

1. Memphis coach Mike Norvell is a hot coaching candidate?

In his fourth season, Mike Norvell is one of the brightest and most successful young coaches in the country. He has a 26-14 record over the past three seasons, including two AAC West championships.

Memphis has also finished the last two seasons ranked in the top-5 nationally in total offense. It's why this year will make it three years of speculation for Power Five coaching job due to his offensive wizardry, strong recruiting and continuing the Tigers' rise to national prominence.

2. Memphis has strong NFL pedigree

Like Ole Miss, the Tigers had a player drafted over the past six years

Recent Tigers who've made the leap include Anthony Miller, Bobby McCain, Martin Ifedi, Jake Elliott, Genard Avery and the two latest draftees in Darrell Henderson and Tony Pollard. And that doesn't count longtime Patriots kicker Stephen Gostkowski who is entering his 14th year with the New England Patriots.

3. Who is Memphis QB Brady White? 

White is entering his second year leading the Tigers offense after passing for 3,296 yards and 26 touchdowns last season.

Like Rebels quarterback Matt Corral, White has West Coast ties being raised in California and starting his career at Arizona State. He also just completed his Master's degree in sports commerce this summer.

4. How many Mississippi natives are on Memphis' roster?

Mississippi has been fertile recruiting ground for Memphis, especially since Norvell was hired after the 2015 season. Currently there are 17 players from the state on the roster, including returning starters O'Bryan Goodson (Batesville) and JJ Russell (Grenada).

More: 5 plausible reasons Ole Miss football is an underdog against Memphis

Ole Miss football: SEC coaches skeptical of Rebels with votes, anonymous quotes

5. What's the Tigers unique takeaway celebration?

The Tigers have two. They have a Takeaway Belt that's been around for two seasons and last season, they added a Ric Flair-inspired Takeaway Robe that fits into Memphis' love of wrestling.

Related: 5 things Memphis fans should know about Ole Miss
