What Is 1987 Tulane Green Wave football team

Overview

The 1987 Tulane Green Wave football team represented Tulane University in the 1987 NCAA Division I-A football season. Competing as an independent, the team struggled throughout the year, finishing with a 2–9 overall record under head coach Wally English.

Playing their home games at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, the Green Wave faced a challenging schedule that included several strong opponents. Despite limited success on the field, the season contributed to the long-standing football tradition at Tulane, which dates back to the late 19th century.

• Record: The team finished the season with a 2–9 overall record, marking one of the more difficult campaigns in program history.
• Head Coach: Wally English served as head coach for his second and final season, compiling a 2–9 record in 1987 before stepping down.
• Home Stadium: Tulane played its home games at the Louisiana Superdome, a domed stadium in downtown New Orleans with a capacity of over 70,000.
• Scoring Output: The Green Wave scored 147 total points across 11 games, averaging just 13.4 points per game, ranking near the bottom nationally.
• Opponents: The schedule included matchups against ranked teams such as LSU and Southern Miss, both of which proved difficult challenges.

Season Performance and Key Details

The 1987 season was marked by offensive inconsistency and defensive struggles, as the Green Wave failed to win consecutive games. Despite flashes of potential, the team was unable to sustain momentum over the course of the season.

• Offensive Struggles: The team averaged only 13.4 points per game, one of the lowest in Division I-A, reflecting difficulties in moving the ball consistently.
• Defensive Challenges: Tulane allowed an average of 28.6 points per game, highlighting vulnerabilities against both the run and pass.
• Winning Season: The two victories came against weaker opponents, including a 24–10 win over Memphis State and a 17–14 win over East Carolina.
• LSU Rivalry Game: Tulane lost to in-state rival LSU 34–7, continuing a losing streak in the series that extended into the late 1980s.
• Program Transition: The 1987 season occurred during a transitional period for Tulane football, which would later join Conference USA in the 1990s.
• Player Development: Several players from the 1987 roster went on to contribute in future seasons as the program rebuilt under new leadership.

Comparison at a Glance

The following table compares the 1987 Tulane Green Wave to the previous and following seasons to illustrate performance trends.

The 1987 season stands out as the worst in terms of win-loss record during Wally English’s tenure. While scoring declined, the team’s defensive performance also deteriorated, allowing a program-high 314 points. The hiring of Pat Collins in 1988 marked the beginning of a gradual turnaround.

Why It Matters

Though the 1987 season was disappointing, it represents a low point from which the program eventually recovered. Understanding this season provides context for Tulane’s broader football history and rebuilding efforts.

• Historical Context: The 1987 season underscores the challenges Tulane faced before joining organized conferences and investing in athletic infrastructure.
• Coaching Changes: Wally English’s departure after 1987 led to the hiring of Pat Collins, who improved the team’s performance within two years.
• Stadium Legacy: Playing at the Superdome connected Tulane to New Orleans’ broader sports culture, even during losing seasons.
• Player Development: Despite the record, the season helped identify talent and areas for improvement in future recruiting classes.
• Program Evolution: The struggles of the late 1980s highlighted the need for modernization, eventually leading to Conference USA membership in 1996.
• Fandom and Resilience: Fans remained loyal through difficult seasons, contributing to the enduring support for Tulane athletics.

The 1987 Tulane Green Wave football team may not be remembered for victories, but it played a role in the long-term development of the program. Its challenges paved the way for future reforms and eventual success in the 1990s and beyond.