How quarterback Brady White said Memphis football handled pause over COVID-19 cases

Before Memphis football opened its season against Arkansas State, the Tigers scrimmaged with no music to prepare for smaller crowds and sharpen their focus.

That focus was tested more once when the Tigers paused football activities on Sept. 11 due to positive COVID-19 tests within the program. During the break before practice resumed Saturday, players tuned out what was being said around them and tried to keep their eyes on resuming their season.

"We're really good at blocking outside noise, so we've definitely been doing that. Everyone's been locked in," quarterback Brady White said Tuesday.

White and offensive lineman Dylan Parham were the first Tigers players to speak to the media since the program went on pause. Both praised the Memphis athletic training staff for how they've handled keeping the players safe and informed.

Parham added that it's easier for him to be careful living by himself.

"I'm just social distancing and making the right precautions," Parham said. "Just doing what I know to protect this team and keep this team safe so that we can have an opportunity to continue to play the games."

But as the Tigers resumed practice, it's hard avoiding the reality of their surroundings. They've had a game postponed (Houston) and canceled (UTSA) since they last played, and coach Ryan Silverfield said they'll have modified practices this week while not being at full strength.

If the Tigers travel to SMU as planned for their game Oct. 3, it will be 28 days since they last took the field.

White said he wasn't concerned about rust. Outside of team meetings, players stayed in touch and checked in away from practice.  He also added video games helped with bonding in lieu of social activities.

White compared it to how players call parents and grandparents every so often. But as the Tigers get back to health, they stayed creative to keep a tight bond as they're just getting used to being around each other again.

"There's ways to build team camaraderie and stay tight even though it's not smart to be out together or anything like that. But it's different," White said. "You just got to get used to it and I think we are. But it's unique and there are ways to do it.

Fleming out for foreseeable future

Silverfield said running back Cameron Fleming will be out for the foreseeable future due to a significant injury.

Fleming was hurt on his first carry in the opener against Arkansas State and had to be helped to the locker room. He returned to the sideline wearing an air cast on his leg, and Silverfield said two days later they'd monitor his status longterm.

With Rodrigues Clark and Kylan Watkins getting most of the carries in the opener, it's an opportunity for Asa Martin, Tim Taylor or Kalyn Grandberry to get more looks.

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You can reach Evan Barnes on Twitter (@Evan_B) or by email at evan.barnes@commercialappeal.com