Play of the game. With time running out Tigers create turnover that leads to win over Arkansas. photo by Don Mooney
by Don Mooney
Memphis, TN—A near capacity crowd of red and blue filled Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium Saturday afternoon to witness the Tigers overcome a 18 point deficit midway through the second quarter to grind out a 32-31 victory against SEC neighbor Arkansas Razorbacks.
The victory extended Memphis’ winning streak to eight games, the longest active streak in the FBS. It also marked the Tigers’ largest comeback since overcoming a 21-point hole against UCF in 2020, and the biggest comeback by an FBS team this season.
The Razorback quarterback threw for 325 yards, his third 300-yard passing game of the season, and a touchdown in the effort. photo by Don Mooney
Memphis’ offensive consistency remained on display. The Tigers (4-0) have now scored 20 or more points in 44-consecutive games, the longest active streak in the nation, a run that dates back to a 33-28 victory over Tulane on Nov. 27, 2021. Saturday also marked the 82nd-straight home game with at least 15 points, the second-longest active streak in the FBS and fourth-longest overall since 1978.
Jaidyn Denis celebrates first quarter interception. photo by Don Mooney
While the offense piled up rushing yards, Memphis’ defense swung momentum with big takeaways. Cornerback Jaidyn Denis picked off quarterback Taylen Green in the first quarter, halting the Razorbacks’ third drive and setting the tone early. It was the Tigers’ 41st forced turnover in their last 24 games (23 interceptions, 18 fumble recoveries).
Senior running back Mike Washington Jr
The biggest play came in the final two minutes of the game; Arkansas, trailing 32-31, had driven inside the Memphis 15-yard line and looked poised for a go-ahead field goal. Safety Chris Bracy stripped the ball from Mike Washington Jr. and recovered the fumble, keeping the Tigers on top with 1:22 remaining on the clock.
Memphis sealed the win when redshirt freshman quarterback Arrington Maiden barreled through defenders for a third-and-8 conversion after starter Brendon Lewis had to exit for a play after losing his helmet on second down.
Running back Sutton Smith was electric once again, rushing for a career-high 148 yards, including a go-ahead 64-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter that gave Memphis the lead for good. Lewis added 103 rushing yards and two scores. It was the most rushing yards by a Memphis quarterback in a game in at least the last 30 years.
Greg Desrosiers Jr. had timely carries and catches all afternoon. photo by Don Mooney
In his first action since the season opener against Chattanooga, running back Greg Desrosiers Jr. chipped in critical carries behind an offensive line that helped pave the way for 290 total rushing yards – the most by Memphis since 2021.
Cortez Braham Jr. led the receiving corps with a season high seven catches and 102 yards, while reeling in a 38-yard touchdown late in the first half to send the Tigers into halftime, down 28-17.
photo by Don Mooney
Kamari Wilson paced the defense, matching his career high with eight tackles while adding an interception and a pass breakup.
New this year, fans are encouraged to purchase early and save. Ticket prices will increase by $5 during game week and again by an additional $5 on game day at the Box Office. This change helps support enhanced planning for security, concessions and staffing. Historically, over 90% of single-game tickets are purchased during game week.
photo by Don Mooney
UP NEXT:
Memphis now turns its attention to its American Conference opener Sept. 27 at Florida Atlantic. A game time will be determined after the conclusion of Saturday’s games.
