'92 Chronology-Team Previews-Memphis

Event Date: March 17th, 1992

Event Description: Team Previews

Source: USA Today

Todays Team: Memphis Showboats


Last season: 9-5 Second place in the Southern Division

Head coach: Pepper Rodgers-Ninth season in Memphis


Notable Arrivals: QB Reggie Collier (Birmingham ’91), QB Jeff Francis (Browns camp ’90), QB Andy Kelly* (Tennessee), WR Gary Anderson (Birmingham ’91), DL Chris Burns* (Tennessee), K Ian Howfield (Oilers ’91), LB Junior Jackson (Birmingham ’91).


Departures: QB Walter Lewis (Birmingham), QB Whit Taylor (Free Agent), QB Babe Laufenberg (WLAF), RB Anthony Parker (Free Agent), WR Preston Brown (Free Agent), DL Calvin Clark (Free Agent), OG Pat Saindon (Retired), LB Ed Smith (Retired).


Newcomer to watch: Rookie quarterback Andy Kelly now becomes the face of the franchise.


Veteran to watch: Quarterback Reggie Collier should start the season, but it may not take long for Pepper Rodgers to make the switch to Kelly.


Strengths: Mossy Cade leads a solid secondary and is a boost to the special teams.


Weaknesses: The ‘Boats defensive line had a difficult time replacing defensive tackle Ron Simmons who was traded prior to last season.


Reason for optimism: A steady ground attack could help Reggie Collier return to form.


Cause for concern: The N.F.L. may come calling as Pepper Rodgers enters the final years of his contract.


Bottom line: The upcoming season could be a roller coaster ride as the ‘Boats go forward with a rookie quarterback and an aging defense.

more to come..........