Following Ryan Silverfield's departure to Arkansas, Memphis Tigers football faces a pivotal coaching search. With an 8-4 record in 2025 and no losing seasons since 2013, the program boasts a renovated Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium opening in 2026, FedEx backing, and Power conference aspirations. Enter Dan Mullen as the prime target. Jason Smith campaigned for the university to go "all in" to make the hire happen. Listen to the show on demand for more here:
Mullen, 53, brings proven success: 69-46 at Mississippi State (2009-2017), including a No. 1 ranking in 2014; 34-15 at Florida (2018-2021); and a 10-2 mark at UNLV in 2025, securing a Mountain West title game berth. His offensive expertise, developing QBs like Alex Smith and Dak Prescott—aligns with Memphis' high-scoring tradition (third in AAC scoring offense). Post-firing at Florida, his ESPN hiatus and quick UNLV turnaround show resilience. Mullen's SEC pedigree could elevate recruiting and position Memphis for Big 12 entry, outpacing Group of Five peers.
Other candidates include Western Kentucky's Tyson Helton (56-36 record, Memphis ties), Kennesaw State's Jerry Mack (Memphis native, 2025 FBS success at Rice), New Mexico's Jason Eck (undefeated head coaching seasons), USC's Dennis Simmons (elite WR developer), and internal OC Tim Cramsey (loyal architect of Tigers' attack). Mullen tops the list for immediate impact.