The 2025 Memphis Tigers football season wasn’t just memorable—it was electric, emotional, and full of moments that had fans on their feet.
From jaw-dropping touchdowns to game-changing plays and unforgettable celebrations, the Memphis Tigers gave fans plenty to cheer about throughout the 2025 NCAA football season. Each game brought its own energy, and the action-packed moments captured by photographer Chris Day of The Commercial Appeal tell a story of heart, hustle, and hometown pride.
Take, for example, the October 4 showdown against Tulsa at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium. One of the standout plays featured Memphis’ Greg Desrosiers Jr. (13) leaping over Tulsa’s Elijah Green (7) in a hurdle-style move that had the crowd roaring. It wasn’t just flashy—it was effective, as Desrosiers continued his run with the ball, showcasing the kind of explosive athleticism that defined Memphis’ offense.
Later in that same game, wide receiver Jamari Hawkins (9) made a spectacular catch while Tulsa’s Zach Williams (18) closed in for what looked like a sure interception. The play highlighted the high level of competition and the razor-thin margins that often decide games.
But here's where it gets controversial: Was this game a turning point for Memphis, or just another flash in the pan? Many fans believe that the Tigers’ performance against Tulsa signaled a new level of consistency—but others argue that the team still struggles in crucial moments. What do you think?
Head coach Ryan Silverfield, ever the motivator, was seen running onto the field with his team before kickoff, rallying the squad and setting the tone for what would be a fiercely contested match. His leadership—and the way players responded—was one of the season’s most compelling storylines.
And this is the part most people miss: In one of the most dramatic moments of the game, Cortez Braham Jr. (4) made a one-handed touchdown grab that sent EMTs and fans into celebration. It wasn’t just a score—it was a symbol of resilience, skill, and pure determination. The image of fans storming the field afterward captured the passion that makes college football so special.
Desrosiers Jr. wasn’t done making headlines that day. After another touchdown, he and teammate Parker Mitchell (70) celebrated in style, reminding everyone why football is as much about the joy of the game as it is about the strategy.
Coach Silverfield also made headlines after the defense recovered a Tulsa fumble. As he high-fived his players, it was clear that this team was beginning to gel. But even here, there’s room for debate: Is Silverfield’s leadership style the key to Memphis’ success, or is the team still searching for a truly dominant identity?
Fast forward to September 20, when Memphis pulled off a nail-biting 32-31 win over Arkansas. Frank Peasant (22) scored a touchdown that sent the stadium into a frenzy, with teammate Jacob Norcross (59) leading the charge in celebration. It was a moment that captured the heart of the season.
Arrington Maiden (7) could be seen cheering on Peasant as he sprinted into the end zone—a reminder that football is a team sport, and every play is a group effort.
The post-game field storm was nothing short of legendary. Fans poured onto the turf, embracing players and each other in pure elation. Cortez Braham Jr. (4), once again the hero, celebrated his touchdown in the end zone, falling backward in a moment that quickly became iconic.
Even head coach Silverfield wasn’t immune to the love—he was patted on the back by fans who had rushed the field, showing just how much this victory meant to the Memphis community. Quarterback Brendon Lewis (2) even took a selfie with fans, a gesture that humanized the moment and made it even more special.
Sutton Smith (5) also shined that day, running in for a touchdown as the crowd erupted. Cheerleaders and fans alike cheered him on, creating a wall of sound that lifted the entire team.
And let’s not forget Chris Bracy (5), whose forced fumble in the closing moments sealed the victory. It was a game-saving play that showed how defense can be just as thrilling as offense.
Running back Makari Bodiford (21) celebrated with his teammates after the win, representing the kind of team-first culture that Memphis hopes to build. But again, this raises a question: Is Memphis finally building a championship-caliber culture, or are they still a few pieces away?
The stadium was packed from start to finish, with fans creating an atmosphere that rivals some of the biggest venues in college football. It was more than just a game—it was a community event, a celebration of everything that makes Memphis proud.
Looking back at the season opener on August 30 against Chattanooga, the energy was already high. Sutton Smith (5) scored a touchdown in that game too, setting the tone for what would be a breakout season for him. Fans cheered wildly, knowing they were witnessing the rise of a new star.
Greg Desrosiers Jr. (13) also made a big impact early, scoring a touchdown that energized the crowd and gave fans a glimpse of what was to come. Frank Peasant (22), meanwhile, bulldozed through Chattanooga defenders, showing the kind of grit that would define the team all season long.
Before the game even started, Memphis players poured onto the field with energy and excitement. Isaiah Green (10) and Reggie Grimes II (44) celebrated a defensive stop, a sign that both sides of the ball were ready to compete.
Jamari Hawkins (9) also made a key first-down conversion, keeping drives alive and showing his value as a reliable target. William Whitlow Jr. blocked a field goal attempt, a play that could have changed the entire momentum of the game.
Sutton Smith (5) was once again in the thick of the action, carrying the ball with determination and vision that made him a fan favorite from day one.
So what does it all mean for Memphis football in 2025? Was this a season of promise fulfilled, or just the beginning of something bigger? And more importantly—do you think the Tigers have what it takes to compete at the highest level next year?
Let us know in the comments below. Do you believe this was a breakthrough season, or is Memphis still chasing true greatness? Your take could spark the next big debate.
