Coach Porter: Smith Still Tigers' Starter QB

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Memphis football coach Larry Porter says Cannon Smith is still the starter as the Tigers game against East Carolina approaches.

Porter lifted Smith, the son of FedEx founder Fred Smith, in favor a true freshman Ryan Williams after three series Saturday.

Smith was 4-of-7 for 30 yards, but failed to lead the Tigers to a first down and missed several open receivers. Williams entered and completed his first two passes for 41 yards, although a holding penalty negated the second one, a 23-yarder to Jermaine McKenzie.

Smith re-entered the game late in the second half and led the Tigers to their only score: a 27-yard touchdown pass to Marcus Rucker. He finished 10-of-15 for 111 yards and a touchdown.