Memphis Football: From College GameDay to Embarrassment
Martin Exposes the Decline
Memphis football has fallen from the heights of national prominence to the depths of embarrassment in just a few short years.
In 2019, the Tigers were riding high after appearing on College GameDay for the first time in school history. They finished the season with a 12-1 record and a berth in the Cotton Bowl.
But things have gone downhill fast since then. Memphis went 6-6 in 2020, 6-7 in 2021, and 3-9 in 2022. The Tigers have also lost their last 12 games against Power Five opponents.
What has caused this precipitous decline? There are a number of factors, but one of the biggest is the departure of head coach Mike Norvell. Norvell led Memphis to unprecedented success in his four seasons at the helm, but he left for Florida State after the 2019 season.
Norvell's replacement, Ryan Silverfield, has not been able to maintain the same level of success. Silverfield is just 15-18 in three seasons as head coach, and he has yet to lead the Tigers to a bowl game.
Another factor in Memphis's decline is the loss of several key players to the NFL. The Tigers have lost their starting quarterback, running back, and wide receiver in each of the last two seasons.
Finally, Memphis has been hurt by a number of injuries. The Tigers have had several key players miss games due to injury this season, and it has taken a toll on the team's performance.
All of these factors have contributed to Memphis's decline. The Tigers are now a far cry from the team that was once a contender for the College Football Playoff.
If Memphis wants to return to prominence, it will need to find a way to replace the players it has lost and get healthy. The Tigers will also need to find a way to improve their defense, which has been one of the worst in the country in recent years.
It will not be easy, but Memphis has the potential to be a good football team. The Tigers have a talented roster and a passionate fan base. With the right leadership and a little luck, Memphis can get back to winning ways.