Memphis, Tennessee, October 21, 2025
News Summary
Memphis football faced a surprising setback against UAB, losing 31-24 during the debut of interim coach Alex Mortensen. Despite entering the game as favorites, Memphis struggled, dropping their overall record to 6-1 and crushing their College Football Playoff aspirations. UAB, led by notable performances from their quarterback and receiver, capitalized on Memphis’s mistakes, including significant penalties in the final moments. The Tigers’ hopes for recovery lie in their upcoming matchup against South Florida.
Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis football suffered a shocking defeat to UAB, losing 31-24 on October 18 during the debut of interim coach Alex Mortensen. This unexpected outcome drops Memphis’ record to 6-1 overall and 2-1 in the American Conference. The team had entered the matchup with hopes of contending for the College Football Playoff, but this loss significantly damages those ambitions.
UAB, who came into the game with a 3-4 record and fresh off the firing of their head coach, Trent Dilfer, was a 24.5-point underdog. Despite this, the Blazers pulled off an impressive performance under Mortensen, the son of the late ESPN NFL analyst Chris Mortensen. Quarterback Ryder Burton had a standout game, completing 20 of 27 passes for 251 yards and three touchdowns in his first collegiate start.
UAB’s offense was bolstered by Receiver Iverson Hooks, who caught 11 passes for 172 yards, contributing significantly to the Blazers’ victory. Memphis struggled in the initial half of the game, struggling with limited possession and unable to produce consistent scoring opportunities. The Tigers faced further issues when starting quarterback Brendon Lewis was injured following a sack early in the second half. True freshman A.J. Hill stepped in, throwing for 175 yards and a touchdown but also recording an interception that proved costly for Memphis.
Despite a late-game surge that narrowed the score to 31-24, Memphis was unable to capitalize on two attempts to score at UAB’s 1-yard line due to penalties, which included a false start and a delay of game. This frustrating end is emblematic of Memphis’s struggles throughout the game, and they were unable to convert on their final drive in the closing seconds.
Entering as one of the favored teams for the College Football Playoff, the loss reduced Memphis’ playoff chances to a mere 19%. As they look forward, the Tigers hope to recover in their next game against No. 19 South Florida on October 25, aiming to salvage their season and return to contention for the American Conference Championship.
Overview of the Game
| Team | Score | Total Yards |
|---|---|---|
| UAB | 31 | 413 |
| Memphis | 24 | 336 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the Memphis vs. UAB game?
The final score was Memphis 24, UAB 31.
What was Memphis’ record after the game?
After the game, Memphis’ record fell to 6-1 overall and 2-1 in the American Conference.
Who was UAB’s interim head coach during the game?
UAB’s interim head coach was Alex Mortensen.
What significant injury occurred during the game?
Starting quarterback Brendon Lewis was injured following a sack in the second half.
How did Memphis’ loss affect their College Football Playoff chances?
The loss significantly damages Memphis’ hopes for the College Football Playoff, reducing their chances to 19%.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
UAB Football Team Upsets No. 22 Memphis Tigers
Former Memphis Tigers Player Publishes Inspirational Book
University of Memphis Football Team Achieves Bowl Eligibility
Memphis Women’s Basketball Welcomes Vonn Read as Assistant Coach
Thousands Honor Legacy of Charlie Kirk in Arizona
Memphis Welcomes New Soccer Franchise Memphis FC
Tennessee Supreme Court Denies Memphis Appeal in Police Case
UK Retail Sales Surge Amid ONS Data Issues
University of Memphis Women’s Soccer Faces No. 2 Tennessee
YouTube TV Faces Potential Loss of Fox Channels
Additional Resources
- Commercial Appeal: Memphis vs UAB Live Updates
- New York Times: UAB Upsets Memphis
- ESPN: UAB Upsets Memphis
- Daily Memphian: UAB Puts Hurt on Tigers
- Commercial Appeal: Memphis Football Poll Update
- Wikipedia: Memphis Tigers Football
- Google Search: Memphis football
- Google Scholar: Memphis football
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Memphis Tigers Football
- Google News: Memphis football
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
