Memphis, TN, August 12, 2025
News Summary
The Memphis Tigers football team is preparing for the upcoming season with mixed reactions from preseason polls. The team, under coach Ryan Silverfield, did not make the AP Top 25 but is ranked No. 34 in the Coaches Poll. Summer practices have started, focusing on roster evaluations and integrating newcomers as they gear up for their season opener against Chattanooga. The competitive landscape features tough opponents in the Group of Five, setting the stage for a critical campaign ahead.
Memphis – The Memphis Tigers football team is gearing up for the 2025 season with a mixed reception in preseason polls. The team, under the leadership of head coach Ryan Silverfield, failed to secure a spot in the preseason AP Top 25 poll that was released on August 11, 2025, although they did receive nine votes, which places them essentially tied at No. 38. This ranking comes as Memphis starts its summer practices on July 30, amidst soaring temperatures that are nearing 100 degrees, marking a crucial time for player evaluations and team preparations.
In contrast, Memphis fared better in the US LBM Coaches Poll, where they are ranked No. 34. This ranking highlights a trend where Memphis has tended to rank higher in the Coaches Poll than in the AP Poll over the past few seasons. Notably, they received the second-most votes among Group of Five teams in this Coaches Poll. The rankings indicate a competitive landscape for Memphis, particularly with fellow Group of Five teams like Tulane, UNLV, and Toledo, all of which are positioned ahead of them in the preseason AP Poll, with Tulane at No. 33, UNLV at No. 35, and Toledo at No. 36.
The team is set to kick off their season on August 30 against Chattanooga, playing at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, where they will look to build momentum in front of their home fans. As summer practices unfold, the coaching staff will focus on assessing a roster that includes several newcomers who joined the team during the spring. Their performance in these crucial practices will determine the playing time and depth chart for the upcoming season.
Memphis and James Madison are tied at No. 38 in the AP Poll, indicating a competitive edge as both teams vie for recognition. Other teams that have received votes in the AP Poll include Liberty, Navy, Army, and Louisiana. These standings are reflective of the challenges ahead for the Tigers, with significant attention given to how they perform in their initial games and throughout the season.
In summary, as Memphis prepares for the upcoming season, the team faces a blend of optimism and challenges highlighted by their preseason polling. The upcoming match against Chattanooga will be pivotal in setting the tone for the remainder of their campaign.
Background on Memphis Football
Over recent years, Memphis has established itself as a competitive program in collegiate football, often finding itself in the national conversation despite not being part of the Power Five conferences. The efforts of coaching staff and players, combined with strategic recruiting, have contributed to building a strong football culture within the university.
Frank Bonner, Memphis Tigers’ football beat writer, provides insights into the team’s dynamics and activities. Originally from Indiana, Bonner has relocated to Memphis after two years of covering Oklahoma State football and basketball in Tulsa, along with a background in high school sports reporting.
2025 Season Outlook
The 2025 season presents various opportunities and challenges for the Memphis Tigers football team. With new players integrating into the system and returning veterans, the stage is set for what could be an exciting campaign. As preparations continue, the focus will remain on building chemistry and enhancing performance on the field to meet the expectations of fans and the university.
FAQs
What is the Memphis Tigers football team’s ranking in the preseason AP Poll?
The Memphis Tigers were not ranked in the preseason AP Poll but received nine votes, placing them essentially tied for No. 38.
When does Memphis open its 2025 football season?
The Tigers are set to open their season on August 30, 2025, against Chattanooga at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium.
How did Memphis rank in the Coaches Poll?
In the US LBM Coaches Poll, Memphis is ranked No. 34.
Which teams are ranked ahead of Memphis in the AP Poll?
Teams ranked ahead of Memphis in the AP Poll include Tulane (No. 33), UNLV (No. 35), and Toledo (No. 36).
When do summer practices for the team begin?
Summer practices for the Memphis Tigers football team began on July 30, 2025.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Preseason AP Poll Ranking | Tied for No. 38 |
| Coaches Poll Ranking | No. 34 |
| Total Votes in AP Poll | 9 Votes |
| Summer Practices Start Date | July 30, 2025 |
| Season Opener Date | August 30, 2025 |
| Opponent in Season Opener | Chattanooga |
| Teams Ranked Ahead in AP Poll | Tulane, UNLV, Toledo |
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Additional Resources
- Commercial Appeal: Memphis Football in AP Poll
- Daily Memphian: Memphis Tigers Football Ranking
- Go Tigers Go: Silverfield Named to Dodd Trophy Watch List
- USA Today: Memphis Football Updates
- Underdog Dynasty: AAC Preseason Previews – Memphis Tigers
- Wikipedia: College Football
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football
- Google Search: Memphis Tigers Football
- Google News: Memphis Tigers
- Google Scholar: Memphis Tigers Football 2025
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
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