Unleashed: Charles Huff Takes the Memphis Helm, Vows to Roar Back to AAC Glory

Charles Huff knocks his introductory press conference at Memphis out of the park
Charles Huff gives his introductory speech as the head coach for the University of Memphis football team during a press conference at Billy J. Murphy Athletic Complex in Memphis, Tenn., on December 10, 2025. Photo credit © Chris Day/The Commercial Appeal / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – In a Billy J. Murphy Athletic facility pulsing with Tiger blue energy, Charles Huff stepped to the podium Wednesday (12/10), his voice booming like a war drum: "Why am I here? To close the gap." The 42-year-old coaching phenom, fresh off a 7-5 turnaround at Southern Miss after a Sun Belt crown at Marshall, officially claimed the reins of the Memphis Tigers, succeeding Ryan Silverfield's tenure that fizzled with a 3-game losing streak and the Gasparilla Bowl.

Huff, a NFL-honed recruiter who molded Saquon Barkley at Penn State, wasted no time rallying the faithful. "To Tiger Nation: It's go time! We're building champions on the field, in the classroom, in this city." He teased staff additions like strength guru Ben Ashford and DL coach Eric Mathies, eyeing a transfer-heavy reload to chase that elusive AAC title since 2019. Athletic Director Ed Scott beamed: "Charles is our closer."

Full coverage of the Huff hiring on 92.9 FM ESPN, Memphis' Sports Station.

Featured Image Photo Credit: © Chris Day/The Commercial Appeal / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images