Tiger Football: Thamel reports Lewis will start Week 1 vs. Chat

Memphis’ Brendon Lewis (2) prepares to throw the ball during practice at the Billy J Murphy Athletic Complex at the University of Memphis on August 1, 2025. Photo credit © Chris Day/The Commercial Appeal / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Geoff Calkins and Jeffrey Wright discussed ESPN/Pete Thamel's reporting that Brendon Lewis will be the likely starting quarterback for the Memphis Tigers in their opening games against Chattanooga.

AUDIO:

Pete Thamel of ESPN reports that Nevada transfer Brendon Lewis has emerged as the starting quarterback for the Memphis Tigers, and he’s set to make his debut in Week 1 against Chattanooga. This move effectively confirms that Arrington Maiden will not start in the opener, despite a strong showing in Memphis’s spring game; Maiden is expected to settle into a backup role, though AJ Hill remains in contention.

Lewis, a seasoned veteran quarterback entering his sixth year, brings significant experience—he’s played 39 career games between Colorado and Nevada, accumulating 5,330 passing yards and 28 touchdowns according to ESPN. His arrival injects confidence and stability into Memphis’s offense as the Tigers aim to build on their recent success under coach Ryan Silverfield.

Follow the Tigers on Memphis' Sports Station, 92.9 FM ESPN.

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