Memphis preview

Optimism fills the air as the Tigers are gearing up for the 2007 season. That optimism is fueled by the way head coach Tommy West's squad emerged in the final three games of the 2006 season as well as by the tremendous energy and enthusiasm that was clearly noticeable during the spring.

"I made some decisions last year that set this football team back," said West. "I made those decisions so that we can ultimately get to where we want to get to. This team never blinked an eye and never questioned the decision. They have bought in, 100 percent.

"I was really impressed at how our football team responded through a difficult year," added West. "They continued to improve each week, to the point that I thought they were a good team at the end of the year. We fought through a tough situation and became a good team out of it."

The 2007 season will feature six new coaches which West often cited during spring practice for their energy and enthusiasm on the field. He is quick to call this staff the best recruiting staff that he has ever had at Memphis and feels this program is clearly "headed in the right direction from a recruiting and coaching standpoint."

"I thought this team had a great attitude this spring," West said. "I think this team has a little bit of a chip on their shoulder because of what they went through, and I believe we all will be better because of it."

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