MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Memphis Tigers' spring football season concluded with an exciting Spring game Saturday.
Following a record-setting 2023 season, the Memphis Tigers football team is poised for another successful campaign in 2024. Today's Spring game offered a preview of the team's potential.
The conclusion of the Memphis Spring football season was marked by excitement as the University secured a significant NIL deal, welcomed back key leaders for the next season, and added high-profile transfers. While much of the roster is set, the competition for the backup quarterback position intensifies.
Seventeen-year-old freshman Arrington Maiden, redshirt freshman Harris Boyd, and junior Cade Cunningham are vying for the backup QB role. While all three displayed their talents today, Boyd was the only one to throw a touchdown pass.
"We have three guys out there competing, and I was pleased with the effort from all three throughout the Spring," Head coach Ryan Silverfield said. "One would have a good practice, and the other wouldn’t, but it’s just more consistency. We are going to let that battle continue through August."
While the backup QB position remains undecided, the starting running back spot appears to have been secured by South Carolina transfer Mario Anderson. Anderson, showcasing his talent, scored a touchdown for the Blue team with a long run in the first quarter.
"He’s made great strides and had a great game today," starting quarterback Seth Henigan said. "A great finish to spring, and we expect big things from him in the Fall."
Freshman Running back Makari Bodiford, another significant addition to the Tigers’ backfield, extended the Blue team’s lead in the first half.
The Gray team scored at the game's end when Boyd connected with Demeer Blankumsee for a 1-yard touchdown. With no time remaining, the Blue team claimed a 14-6 victory.
Overall both team’s offensives looked solid but it was the defense that stole the show today.
The Grey team kept Henigan and the passing game in check while Marjavious Moss nabbed a nice interception for the Blue team.
Senior DB, Greg Rubin says going up against one of the best offenses in the NCAA has helped make the defense stronger.
“I feel like, everybody know we got one of the best offenses in the country so, just us going against them everyday," Rubin confidently said. "I feel like that builds our confidence everyday, knowing that iron sharpens iron.”
While football dominated the day, the players engaged in competitions with the students during breaks, even losing a tug of war contest.
"It was 3 versus 10; they didn’t stand a chance, Henigan said.
"We need to get our guys back in the weight room," Silverfield jokingly said.
Memphis will kick off the 2024 season at home against North Alabama on August 31st.