Memphis Football Roster: Relive The 2017 Season!

Hey guys! Let's take a trip down memory lane and dive into the Memphis football roster from the awesome 2017 season! For those of us who bleed blue and gray, the 2017 season was truly special. It was a year filled with incredible plays, unforgettable moments, and a team roster packed with talent that left it all on the field. Whether you're a die-hard fan looking to reminisce or a newer supporter wanting to learn more about the legends who paved the way, this deep dive into the 2017 Memphis football roster is just what you need. We will explore the key players, their stats, and the overall impact they had on making that season one for the books. We will also discuss the coaching staff that led these young men and the unforgettable games that defined their journey. The 2017 season was more than just wins and losses; it was about the camaraderie, the spirit, and the unwavering dedication of every player and coach involved. So grab your favorite Memphis Tigers gear, settle in, and let's get started! Let's relive the excitement and pride of the 2017 Memphis football season by highlighting the incredible athletes who wore the blue and gray. From the offensive juggernauts to the defensive stalwarts, each player on the 2017 Memphis football roster contributed to the team's success and left an indelible mark on the program's history. We will analyze their roles, contributions, and the unforgettable moments that made them fan favorites. Together we will celebrate their achievements and relive the magic of that remarkable season!

The Dynamic Offense

Alright, let’s start with the offensive juggernaut of the 2017 Memphis football team. This was an offense that kept opposing defenses up at night. At the heart of it all was the quarterback, Riley Ferguson. Ferguson was a true field general, possessing a strong arm, excellent decision-making skills, and the ability to make plays under pressure. In the 2017 season, Ferguson threw for over 4,000 yards and 38 touchdowns, solidifying himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation. His leadership and poise were instrumental in guiding the Tigers' offense to unprecedented heights. Now, you can't talk about the 2017 Memphis offense without mentioning the incredible receiving corps. Anthony Miller was the standout, a true superstar who consistently made highlight-reel catches. Miller was a nightmare for opposing cornerbacks with his speed, agility, and ability to high-point the football. He finished the season with over 1,400 receiving yards and 18 touchdowns, earning All-American honors and solidifying his status as one of the best receivers in Memphis history. But Miller wasn't the only weapon in the Tigers' arsenal. Players like Damonte Coxie and Sean Dykes also made significant contributions, providing reliable targets for Ferguson and adding depth to the passing game. Coxie, with his size and physicality, was a force to be reckoned with, while Dykes, with his speed and elusiveness, often made big plays in crucial moments. And let's not forget about the ground game! Darrell Henderson and Patrick Taylor Jr. formed a dynamic duo in the backfield, each bringing a unique skill set to the table. Henderson, with his explosive speed and breakaway ability, was a threat to score every time he touched the ball. Taylor, with his power and determination, was a master at grinding out tough yards and wearing down defenses. Together, they combined for over 2,000 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns, providing the Memphis offense with a balanced attack that was incredibly difficult to stop. The offensive line also deserves a ton of credit for their stellar play. Anchored by experienced veterans, the line provided excellent protection for Ferguson and created running lanes for Henderson and Taylor. Their consistency and toughness were essential to the offense's success. In summary, the 2017 Memphis offense was a well-oiled machine, featuring a talented quarterback, a dynamic receiving corps, a powerful running game, and a solid offensive line. It was a unit that could score points in bunches and consistently put pressure on opposing defenses. For Memphis fans, watching this offense in action was a thrill, and their contributions were a key factor in the team's success that season.

The Stout Defense

While the offense grabbed many headlines, the 2017 Memphis football defense was equally critical to the team's success. This was a unit that played with heart, grit, and determination, consistently making stops and creating turnovers when it mattered most. At the forefront of the defense was linebacker Genard Avery. Avery was the heart and soul of the Memphis defense, leading the team in tackles and making plays all over the field. With his speed, strength, and relentless pursuit of the ball, Avery was a dominant force. His leadership and passion inspired his teammates and set the tone for the entire defense. The defensive line was also a force to be reckoned with, featuring players like Ernest Suttles and Jonathan Wilson. Suttles was a disruptive presence in the middle, consistently collapsing the pocket and making life difficult for opposing quarterbacks. Wilson, with his speed and athleticism, was a threat off the edge, frequently getting into the backfield and disrupting plays. Together, they formed a formidable duo that anchored the defensive line. In the secondary, players like TJ Carter and Tito Windham provided solid coverage and made key interceptions. Carter, a true ballhawk, had a knack for being in the right place at the right time, consistently making plays on the ball. Windham, with his experience and savvy, was a steady presence in the defensive backfield, providing leadership and guidance to his younger teammates. The Memphis defense was known for its aggressive style of play, constantly blitzing and pressuring opposing quarterbacks. This relentless pressure often led to turnovers, giving the Memphis offense opportunities to score. While the defense wasn't always perfect, they always played with maximum effort and a never-say-die attitude. They consistently rose to the occasion in crucial moments, making key stops and creating turnovers that helped the team win games. The defensive unit embodied the spirit of the Memphis Tigers, playing with passion, toughness, and a relentless determination to succeed. Their contributions were invaluable to the team's success in 2017, and they deserve recognition for their hard work and dedication.

Coaching Staff and Key Games

Now, let's give credit to the masterminds behind the 2017 Memphis football team: the coaching staff. Head coach Mike Norvell did an outstanding job of leading the program, instilling a culture of hard work, discipline, and teamwork. Norvell's innovative offensive schemes and his ability to motivate his players were key factors in the team's success. He also assembled a talented group of assistant coaches who were instrumental in developing the players and implementing the game plans. The offensive coordinator did a great job of designing an offense that played to the team's strengths, utilizing the talents of Ferguson, Miller, Henderson, and others. The defensive coordinator implemented an aggressive and opportunistic defense that consistently made plays and created turnovers. Together, the coaching staff created a winning formula that propelled the Memphis Tigers to new heights. The 2017 season was filled with many memorable games, but a few stand out above the rest. One of the most unforgettable games was the high-scoring shootout against UCF in the AAC Championship game. Although the Tigers ultimately came up short, the game was an instant classic, showcasing the offensive firepower of both teams. The game featured multiple lead changes, incredible plays, and a thrilling finish that had fans on the edge of their seats. Another memorable game was the victory over UCLA early in the season. The Tigers traveled to the Rose Bowl and upset the Bruins in a dominant performance, announcing to the nation that they were a force to be reckoned with. The win was a statement victory for the program and provided a huge boost of confidence for the team moving forward. Other key games included victories over Navy, Houston, and SMU, all of which were crucial in helping the Tigers win the AAC West Division and earn a spot in the conference championship game. Each of these games showcased the team's talent, resilience, and determination to succeed. The 2017 season was truly special for Memphis football fans, filled with unforgettable moments and a team that captured the hearts of the city. The players, coaches, and fans all came together to create a magical season that will be remembered for years to come. The 2017 Memphis football season was a testament to the hard work, dedication, and talent of everyone involved. From the players on the field to the coaches on the sidelines to the fans in the stands, everyone played a role in making that season one for the ages. As we reflect on the 2017 season, let's remember the incredible moments, the unforgettable games, and the special bond that united the Memphis football family. The memories of that season will live on forever, inspiring future generations of Tigers to strive for greatness.