With most football fans focused on this upcoming weekend’s major rivalry game between the Tennessee Vols and Alabama Crimson Tide, it’s easy to overlook another team that’s been climbing up the ranks: the Memphis Tigers.

The Tigers are off to a 6-0 start, and are currently ranked 23rd in the nation. This marks the Tigers’ first ranking since 2020, as the program continues to build momentum under head coach Ryan Silverfield. Memphis knocked off the Arkansas Razorbacks earlier this season and is the only remaining undefeated, bowl-eligible team in the nation, putting the Tigers in the national spotlight among Power 5 and Group of 5 competition alike.

Inside the American Athletic Conference, this ranking signifies a notable moment: Memphis becomes one of two AAC teams now in the poll, joined by South Florida (USF) at No. 24. The AAC has two wins vs the SEC this year, thanks to USF’s upset their “big brother” to the north, the Florida Gators. Those wins, along with Memphis and USF’s dual presence in the Top 25, have given the AAC more credibility than previous seasons.

With the ranking secured, Memphis is preparing for the University of Alabama-Birmingham, but the Blazers are in disarray sinceTrent Dilfer was fired as the head coach earlier this week. High-stakes conference matchups lie ahead, as well as key showdowns against national powers that could swing perception. Either way, the Tigers’ arrival in the Top 25 marks a turning point for a program striving for sustained respect on the national stage.