Memphis has a high-powered offense with excellent skill position players. The Tigers, however, aren't great in pass protection and haven't faced a defense the caliber of Penn State. 
The Nittany Lions rank seventh in scoring defense giving up 14.1 points a game and 11th in yards per play at 4.8. Penn State played good competition, too, taking on eight bowl teams. They held those opponents to 18.6 points a game. Ohio State could manage just 28 points against Penn State. The Buckeyes are the No. 1 scoring team in the nation averaging 48.7 points. 
Penn State isn't as strong offensively. The Nittany Lions have flashed at times, but their offense is far from dominant. Memphis held six foes to fewer than 350 yards.