The Memphis Tigers’ hopes of competing for an AAC title in 2024 officially ended today following Tulane’s dominant 35-0 victory over Navy. While the Tigers put together an admirable 8-2 record, their title aspirations unraveled over the past few weeks due to key losses and the surging performances of teams like Tulane, Navy, and an undefeated Army.
This season began with high expectations for Memphis, a team picked by many to win the AAC and potentially earn a spot in the expanded College Football Playoff as the Group of Five representative. However, a midseason stumble proved costly, and the path to the championship became increasingly narrow as other contenders found their stride at the right time.
Related: AAC Football Power Rankings: Week 12
A Season Defined by Missed Opportunities
Memphis had several opportunities to stay in the hunt for the AAC crown but failed to capitalize when it mattered most. A narrow loss to Navy earlier in the season put them on the back foot, but the Tigers were still in contention after Navy’s upset loss to Rice. That same weekend, Memphis suffered a heartbreaking defeat to UTSA, effectively closing the door on their AAC title hopes.
Today’s result between Tulane and Navy finalized their elimination, as the Green Wave delivered a statement win to secure a spot in their third straight AAC Championship Game. Tulane will now face Army, who has surprised many with an undefeated season, though some argue an easier schedule aided their success.
The Tigers’ struggles against Navy and UTSA weren’t due to a lack of effort but inconsistent execution in critical moments. On the road against Navy, Memphis couldn’t find the answers to pull off a win. Similarly, the UTSA loss highlighted vulnerabilities on both sides of the ball. These missed opportunities defined a season that fell just short of greatness.
What This Means for Memphis
Memphis’ elimination from AAC title contention reminds me of the razor-thin margin for error in the Group of Five. Unlike Power Four programs, which can absorb a loss or two and stay in the playoff race, Group of Five teams must win their conference and often do so convincingly even to be considered for a CFP berth.
The expanded playoff format was supposed to level the playing field, but this season highlights the challenges of maintaining perfection or near-perfection for Memphis. Teams like Tulane and Boise State have shown the ability to separate themselves, and Memphis must continue to grow if they want to compete on that level consistently.
A Successful Season Despite the Setback
While the AAC title dream is over, it’s important to recognize the achievements of this Memphis team. Reaching bowl eligibility for the 11th straight season is a testament to the program’s consistency. Furthermore, the Tigers are on track for their second consecutive double-digit win season under head coach Ryan Silverfield, a feat that should not be overlooked.
Memphis has proven that it remains one of the top programs in the AAC, even in a year where the conference has seen significant parity. Players like Seth Henigan, Mario Anderson, and Roc Taylor have delivered standout performances, cementing their legacies in Tigers’ history. Henigan, in particular, has shattered records, becoming the program’s all-time leader in passing touchdowns and yards.
Looking Ahead
With two games left on the schedule, Memphis still has much to play for. The annual “Battle for the Bones” rivalry against UAB presents an opportunity for the Tigers to end their home schedule on a high note. After that, they face Tulane on Thanksgiving night, a game with no championship implications but plenty of pride. Beating Tulane for the first time since 2021 would be a meaningful way to close out the regular season and send a message for the future.
While this season didn’t deliver the ultimate goal of an AAC title, Memphis has shown resilience and continues to demonstrate why it’s a strong program. The lessons learned this year will fuel their efforts as the Tigers look to reclaim their place at the top of the conference in 2025.
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