Tigers Overcome 18-Point Deficit to Topple Razorbacks, 32-31

Saturday, September 20

Memphis, Tenn.

11 a.m.

University of Memphis

4-0 , 0-0

Arkansas

2-2 , 0-1

1st

2nd

3rd

4th

Arkansas

Memphis

Tigers Overcome 18-Point Deficit to Topple Razorbacks, 32-31

Sep 20, 2025 | Football

Box Score Box Score (PDF)Postgame Notes vs. Arkansas

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Trailing by 18 points midway through the second quarter, Memphis looked like it might be headed for its first setback of the season. Instead, in front of a capacity crowd of 39,861 – the program's first sellout since Nov. 2, 2019 against SMU – the Tigers roared back to deliver a 32-31 upset over Arkansas (2-2, 0-1 SEC) Saturday at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, cementing the Tigers' status as one of the nation's top Group of Five contenders.

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.

With the win, Memphis has now claimed four-consecutive home victories over SEC opponents, adding Arkansas to a list that already includes Mississippi State in 2021 and Ole Miss in 2015 and 2019.

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 82^nd-straight home game with at least 15 points, the second-longest active streak in the FBS and fourth-longest overall since 1978.

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).

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.

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.

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.

Season ticket prices remain unchanged from 2024, following a perfect 7-0 home campaign. With prices averaging under $25 per game, season tickets remain the best value for Tiger fans. Tickets can be purchased online at GoTigersGo.com or by calling the Memphis Ticket Office at (901) 678-2331.

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.

HOW TO FOLLOW THE TIGERS:
For complete information on Memphis Tigers Football, visit www.GoTigersGo.com and follow the team's social media channels on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.