Memphis football WR Joseph Scates out vs. SMU

Evan Barnes
Memphis Commercial Appeal

Joseph Scates was featured in this week's Memphis football uniform reveal on Twitter but the junior wide receiver will not play at SMU Saturday (2:30 p.m., ESPN2) according to a Memphis spokesperson.

Scates, the Tigers' best deep threat who is fifth on the team with 390 receiving yards, will miss his second consecutive game with an undisclosed injury. Coach Ryan Silverfield said Monday that he would be a game-time decision and Scates wore a green non-contact jersey during portions of practice this week viewed by media.

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With Scates out, the Tigers' (6-5, 3-4 AAC) receiving depth takes a hit behind the starters. Memphis is also without Koby Drake due to injury so young receivers like freshman Cameron Wright and sophomore Roc Taylor could see extended reps.

Besides running Brandon Thomas out with a season-ending injury, defensive tackle Zy Brockington is also out Saturday for the Tigers.

Memphis and SMU (6-5) have both clinched bowl eligibility so a win for either guarantees a winning season.